UK leads electric vehicle revolution with new half-a-million milestone

The government has announced that the UK is leading the way with the move to electric vehicles after reaching a ‘major’ milestone.

Figures released today (5 May 2021) have shown that over half-a-million ultra low emission vehicles are now being driven on roads across the country.

This comes as statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that 13.6 per cent of new cars sold in the past 4 months had a plug, with ultra low emission cars accounting for more than 1 in 10 sales last year - up from 1 in 30 the year before.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps commented: “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 pledged a £2.8bn package of measures to support industry and drivers to make the switch to cleaner vehicles. This will help us meet our climate change obligations, improve air quality in our towns and cities and support economic growth, with vehicles built here in the UK.”

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, added: “The automotive sector is transforming the way we drive, investing billions in ever greener and cleaner vehicles across the range, with 1 in 4 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.”

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