Electric Car Sales Soar to Record 72,779 Units in September, Driven by Discounts and Incentives

Electric Car Sales Hit Record High in September, Driven by Discounts and Government Incentives In a significant milestone for the UK's automotive industry, sales of electric cars reached an all-time high in September, with 72,779 pure battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sold, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers (SMMT). This represents a nearly 30% increase from the same period last year. The surge in demand was driven by carmakers offering discounts and a wider range of models, as well as the introduction of the government's grant scheme. The SMMT attributed the growth to "industry investment in electric vehicles paying off," according to Mike Hawes, chief executive of the organization. While 71.4% of BEV sales were made by businesses or for fleet use, the number of private buyers has increased over the past year. Zero-emission vehicles now account for 22.1% of all new car registrations so far in 2025, marking a significant shift towards electrification. The growth in electric vehicle sales is part of a broader trend towards sustainability and reduced emissions. The UK government's commitment to phasing out internal combustion engines by 2030 has contributed to the increasing demand for electric cars. Industry experts attribute the success to the combination of factors, including discounts, model variety, and government incentives. "The market is responding well to the availability of more models and the introduction of the grant scheme," said a spokesperson for a leading car manufacturer. The SMMT's figures also highlight the growing importance of electric vehicles in the UK market. With over half of all new car registrations now being fully electric or hybrid, the industry is shifting towards a more sustainable future. As the demand for electric cars continues to rise, manufacturers are investing heavily in expanding their product lines and improving charging infrastructure. The next step will be to make electric vehicles more accessible and affordable for private buyers, who currently account for only 28.6% of sales. The UK's automotive industry is poised to continue its growth trajectory, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. As the government sets ambitious targets for reducing emissions, the industry is responding with innovation and investment. With electric vehicle sales reaching a record high in September, it's clear that the future of transportation is electric. *Reporting by Bbc.*