FEBRUARY SEES BEVS MAKE UP MORE THAN A FOURTH OF REGISTRATIONS, AS PRIVATE DEMAND SEES UPTICK

“The decline in the new car market persists, marking the fifth consecutive month of contraction with a -1.0% drop in registrations in February” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK commenting on the latest SMMT new car registration figures.

In February, a total of 84,054 new cars were registered, a decrease of -1.0% from the same period last year. Sales to private buyers were up by 4.6%; fleet registrations were down by -4.0%.

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to experience growth, up 41.7% to 21,244 units. Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registrations also increased 19.3% to 7,273 units, and hybrids (HEVs) saw a rise of 7.9% to 11,431 units. In 2025, 50,878 new BEVs have been registered so far, compared to 35,926 units at the same point last year, representing a 41.6% increase.

With sales of electric growing, diesel fell from 4,995 units to 4,241 units (-15.1%), and petrol also saw a drop from 48,211 units to 39,865 units (-17.3%).

Sue Robinson concluded, “Positively, private demand has seen a rebound, up 4.6%. Conversely, fleet registrations have seen a further downturn.

“BEVs are maintaining their strong momentum in 2025, securing a market share of 22.8% year-to-date, slightly below the ZEV mandate quota of 28% for the year.

“Last month, NFDA submitted its response to the Government consultation on proposals to support the UK's transition to zero-emission vehicles. A key focus of NFDA’s response is the urgent need for incentives, emphasising that stimulating consumer demand is crucial for driving market growth.

“Looking ahead, next month’s figures will see the added impetus of March being a plate change month, which should provide a boost to the market.

“Dealerships are well-prepared for this rapidly changing landscape, and it is important to note that next month will bring several changes, including EVs becoming subject to Vehicle Excise Duty.”