UK buyers can now pick from 171 fully electric cars after the number of accessible models doubled in three years, in line with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Manufacturers have introduced 85 battery-electric models since 2023, reminiscent of almost one latest electric vehicle (EV) every fortnight.
The expansion gives dealers electric options across every major vehicle segment, including city cars, family hatchbacks, executive saloons, SUVs and sports cars.
EVs sit alongside 109 plug-in hybrid and 52 hybrid models. Greater than three quarters of the UK’s latest automotive model range is now able to some driving without producing tailpipe emissions.
Overall, UK buyers can select from 385 models across all powertrain types and greater than 60 brands.
Average EV range passes 300 miles
The SMMT said the newest EVs can typically travel greater than 300 miles on one charge.
That is greater than twice the 127 miles covered by the common UK driver each week.
The rise in range and model alternative follows investment by manufacturers in battery technology, vehicle platforms and production capability.
Latest models typically take between three and five years to develop, meaning most of the vehicles now reaching dealerships reflect investment decisions made well before the recent expansion in EV demand.
Manufacturer discounts and the Government’s Electric Automotive Grant are also helping to scale back purchase costs on qualifying models.
The SMMT estimated that the rollout of electrical cars, combined with improvements to hybrid and combustion-engine vehicles, was reducing annual latest automotive CO2 emissions by greater than 500,000 tonnes.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Britain’s latest automotive market has never offered a lot alternative, with a brand new electric model arriving every fortnight and nil emission motoring now available in every shape and size of car.
“Industry investment is delivering the products, performance and range drivers need, while compelling offers are helping more people make the switch.”
Hawes said hybrid and lower-emission models also provided a chance for motorists who still faced barriers to adopting a completely electric automotive.
The breadth of electrified product is being demonstrated at SMMT Drive Live, where nine in 10 of the models available to check drive are electrified.
Pure electric cars account for 58.2% of the event’s test vehicle line-up.
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
