Half-a-million ultra low emission vehicles on UK roads

New data has revealed that more than half-a-million ultra low emission vehicles are now being driven on roads across the country.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders statistics show that 13.6 per cent of new cars sold in 2021 had a plug, with ultra low emission cars accounting for more than one in 10 sales last year, up from one in 30 the year before.

A significant number of EV models have seen price reductions in recent months – making them more accessible and affordable for motorists around the country – as more and more people make the switch to ultra low emission vehicles. More affordable batteries also mean that manufacturers have been able to increase the range of these vehicles, with many EVs now able to drive over 200 or even 300 miles on a charge, so that motorists can use them for longer journeys.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The automotive sector is transforming the way we drive, investing billions in ever greener and cleaner vehicles across the range, with one in four available models now capable of being ‘plugged in’. Over half-a-million people are already convinced by the incredible driving experience and we hope millions more will make the switch as Britain strives to become the best place to build, buy and drive electric vehicles.”

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “As hosts of COP26, we want to drive decarbonisation on the global stage, which is why we’re going further and faster to make the journeys of our future as clean as possible. With news that the half-a-million milestone has now been met, together with the UK now having the second largest EV market in Europe, it’s clear that the shift to green motoring is accelerating at speed.”

The government has committed to ending the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and to ensure all new cars and vans will be zero emissions at the tailpipe by 2035. As part of this, the government has pledged a £2.8 billion package of measures to support industry and drivers to make the switch to cleaner vehicles.