UK Electric Vehicle Statistics 2026

The UK's electric vehicle revolution is accelerating. Over 1.3 million fully electric vehicles (BEVs) are now licensed on UK roads, alongside approximately 680,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). Together these represent around 3% of the 40 million total licensed cars.

In 2024, approximately 22% of new car registrations were electric or plug-in hybrid, including 16.5% that were fully battery electric. The government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requires that a rising proportion of new cars sold be zero emission — 22% in 2024, rising to 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2035.

Charging infrastructure has expanded rapidly to over 67,500 public charge points, though coverage remains uneven. The government has committed to rapid and ultra-rapid chargers every 25 miles on major A roads and motorways.

How many electric vehicles are there in the UK?

There are approximately 1.3 million fully battery electric vehicles (BEVs) licensed in the UK as of early 2026, plus around 680,000 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). The number has grown from fewer than 10,000 in 2013.

What is the 2035 petrol car ban?

The UK government has legislated that the sale of new fully petrol or diesel cars will end from 2035. From that date, all new cars sold must be zero emission at the tailpipe. Existing petrol/diesel cars can continue to be bought second-hand and driven indefinitely.

How many EV charging points are there in the UK?

There are over 67,500 public electric vehicle charging points across the UK. The government has committed to rolling out 300,000 public charge points by 2030. Coverage in rural areas remains a challenge.

Are EVs cheaper to run than petrol cars?

Charging an EV at home costs approximately 2-3p per mile at typical off-peak electricity rates, versus around 15-18p per mile for a petrol car. EVs also have lower servicing costs and zero road tax.

What is the ZEV mandate?

The Zero Emission Vehicle mandate requires car manufacturers to sell a minimum percentage of zero-emission vehicles each year, starting at 22% in 2024 and rising to 80% by 2030. Manufacturers that miss targets pay a fine of £15,000 per vehicle shortfall.