September is traditionally one of the most important months for the UK auto industry, known as the ‘new numberplate month’, accounting for roughly one in seven annual vehicle registrations.

This time, the market not only showed a surge in overall car sales but also achieved record-breaking electric vehicle (EV) registrations, signaling a strong shift toward clean and sustainable transport.

Industry experts said the positive trend gives a much-needed boost to the UK’s automotive sector, which is working to meet the government’s ambitious electric vehicle adoption targets despite earlier concerns about weak private-buyer demand.

The success of September’s EV sales suggests that British consumers are regaining confidence in switching from petrol and diesel cars to greener options, helped by expanding charging networks and government incentives.

Britain’s strong September performance is a major milestone for its transition toward electric mobility. The record EV registrations highlight growing public interest in sustainability and innovation, while also easing pressure on automakers struggling to meet environmental goals. If this trend continues, the UK could emerge as a key leader in Europe’s electric revolution.

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UK new car registrations rose 13.7% in September to 312,887, with electrified vehicles making up more than half of the registrations for the first time, according to preliminary figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

"Electrified vehicles are powering market growth after a sluggish summer," SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said in a statement, adding that the Electric Car Grant would help break down affordability barriers for drivers.

A report from New AutoMotive published on Friday showed nearly flat year-on-year growth for Tesla in the UK.