The cradle of the industrial revolution is embracing transport electrification. In October, battery EVs captured 26% of the UK auto market, and PHEVs accounted for 12%, according to data from New AutoMotive.

Registrations of petrol and diesel cars continue to fall—down 25% and 17% year-on-year respectively—and now account for only a third of new car sales. Hybrid models remain the largest single segment at 31%, but these also recorded a decline in volumes in October.

The electric van market also gained market share, achieving a 9.7% share in October, and 9.1% year-to-date.

“In a month defined by market decline for petrol and diesel vehicles, battery-electric cars have demonstrated their resilience in these tougher market conditions,” said Corrin Reilly, Data Analyst at New AutoMotive. “The direction of travel is unmistakable—motorists are moving towards electric vehicles and not looking back.”

“There are some clear winners in October’s car sales figures and Ford has clearly benefitted from being the only brand currently qualifying for the full £3,750 government EV grant,” said Ginny Buckley, the Chief Executive of EV advice site Electrifying.com. “Renault and BYD, meanwhile, are reaping the rewards of betting big on electric, with strong growth thanks to a wave of desirable new models.”

“The data tells a very different story to the headlines,” said Tanya Sinclair, CEO, Electric Vehicles UK. “Too often, coverage focuses on doubt rather than progress. Drivers aren’t confused, they’re informed and savvy. They’ve done their homework, and they know there are more affordable models, better lease options, and smarter charging choices than ever before.”

Source: New AutoMotive