UK sales of greener cars accelerating

Demand for electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid cars surged by 26.3% during January, according to the latest official registration figures.

The data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also continued 2018’s big trend – petrol car sales were up 7.3%, while diesels declined by 20.3%.

Overall, the UK’s new car market dipped 1.6% in January with a total of 161,013 cars registered.

“It’s encouraging to see car registrations in January broadly on par with a year ago as the latest high tech models and deals attracted buyers into showrooms,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.

“This, however, is still the fifth consecutive month of overall decline in the market.

“To restore momentum, we need supportive policies, not least on vehicle taxation, to encourage buyers to invest in new, cleaner vehicles that best suit their driving needs – from the latest petrols and diesels to an ever growing range of exciting electrified vehicles.

The Ford Fiesta was once again Britain’s most popular car in January with strong performances from the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. Look further down the Top 10 and you’ll see both the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and C-Class. Now that must be a first…