The UK new car market fell by -10.4% last month, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). 

A total of 120,311 new cars were registered but that is 13,943 fewer cars registered than April 2024 and 25.3% down on pre-pandemic April 2019.

April’s performance is disappointing but expected after March’s surge. Another month of growth for electric vehicle registrations is good news, however, even if demand remains well below ambition. Recent government adjustments to flexibilities and compliance within the ZEV Mandate are welcome and an important first step in relieving some of the pressure on the market and manufacturers. However, EV uptake is still being heavily and unsustainably subsidised by the industry which is why a compelling package of measures from government is essential if consumers are going to make the switch. 

Said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.

Best selling car in April was the Kia Sportage and the Ford Puma currently tops the charts for the best selling car so far this year.