UK new car registrations fell year-on-year for the sixth month in seven in April, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The organisation reported that fleet registrations were particularly affected, down by 11.9%, compared with a 10.9% fall for business registrations (to firms with fewer than 25 vehicles) and a 7.9% fall for private registrations – although the SMMT pointed out that fleets were still responsible for nearly six out of ten new cars.
In terms of fuel mix, EVs were up by 8.1% year-on-year, for a 20.4% market share – although the SMMT noted this was still below the level required by the ZEV mandate.
Plug-in hybrids were up by 34.1% for an 11.7% market share, while conventional hybrids were down by 2.9% to take 13.8% of the market.
Petrol car registrations were down by 22% for a 48.8% market share, while diesels were down by 26.2% for a 5.3% share.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “April’s performance is disappointing but expected after March’s surge. Another month of growth for electric vehicle registrations is good news, however, even if demand remains well below ambition.
“Recent government adjustments to flexibilities and compliance within the ZEV mandate are welcome and an important first step in relieving some of the pressure on the market and manufacturers.
“However, EV uptake is still being heavily and unsustainably subsidised by the industry which is why a compelling package of measures from government is essential if consumers are going to make the switch.”
