STRONG SALES FOR UK ELECTRIC VEHICLE SALES IN JANUARY

Recent figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that, despite continued headwinds from semiconductor shortages and the ongoing pandemic, demand for electric vehicles shows no signs of slowing down.

January sales figures from the SMMT saw sales of battery electric vehicles increase by over 130% in a monthly year-on-year comparison with 2021.

Of the total 115,087 vehicles registered in January 2022, over half (57,087) had some form of electrification. In comparison, the same figure in 2021 was 38%. The SMMT has forecast that, by the end of 2022, almost one in four new cars would come with a plug.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, is confident that sales of electric vehicles will continue to gain momentum throughout the year.

“Given the lockdown-impacted January 2021, this month’s sales figures were always going to be an improvement but it is still reassuring to see a strengthening market,” said Mike Hawes. “Once again it is electrified vehicles that are driving the growth, despite the headwinds of chip shortages, rising inflation and the cost-of-living squeeze.

“2022 is off to a reasonable start, however, and with around 50 new electrified vehicles due for release this year, customers will have an even greater choice, which can only be good for our shared environmental ambitions.”

The Tesla Model 3 was the UK’s best-selling electric car in 2021 with nearly 35,000 vehicles registered, followed by the Kia e-Niro. Both vehicles can be hired from EV Hire.