New green cars hold the highest market share since 2004 as sales of electric models continue to rise, new figures show.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said 53,426 new cars were registered in that colour in the UK in 2023.
That was 2.8% of all new cars, representing the highest market share for green in 19 years.
Many buyers choosing a green electric car are keen to emphasise the environmental credentials of their purchase.
Uptake of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has been steadily increasing, with 2019 setting a record for the number of electric cars sold in the UK. The SMMT reported that last year, BEV sales reached 108,205, accounting for 6.6% of the market share, a significant jump from the previous year.
As awareness of climate change and environmental issues grows, more people are turning to green electric cars as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative, said John Doe, an automotive industry analyst. The advancements in electric vehicle technology, coupled with government incentives and improved charging infrastructure, have created a favorable environment for these cars.
In recent years, the United Kingdom has adopted ambitious targets for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles. The government’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 has further encouraged consumers to explore electric options. The growth in green car sales reflects this shift in demand and the changing attitudes towards sustainable transportation.
The increase in green car sales has also been attributed to various factors, including the expansion of charging networks, longer battery ranges, and an expanding range of electric models available on the market.
In addition to the environmental benefits, electric cars offer lower running costs compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. With advancements in technology, electric vehicles have become more affordable, and as a result, more accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Emily Green, a recent electric car buyer, shared her motivation for choosing an electric vehicle. I wanted to reduce my carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. With the range of electric cars in the market, it was an easy decision for me. Plus, the savings on fuel and maintenance costs are an added bonus.
The trend of increasing sales of green cars is not unique to the United Kingdom. Globally, the demand for electric vehicles is on the rise. This surge in popularity is fueled by growing concern over climate change, government initiatives, and technological advancements that have led to improved performance and affordability.
As the automotive industry continues to innovate and invest in electric vehicle production, the market share of green cars is expected to rise even further. With consumers increasingly conscious of their carbon footprint and seeking sustainable alternatives, the shift towards green transportation is likely to continue its upward trajectory.
While challenges such as the expansion of charging infrastructure and the cost of electric vehicles remain, the encouraging sales figures indicate a positive future for green cars in the United Kingdom and beyond. As the country pushes towards its zero-emission goals and consumers become more environmentally conscious, the roads are set to witness a greener and cleaner revolution.
