Finance

UK new car sales dip about 2% in November, preliminary data shows

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on December 5, 2024

1 min read

· Last updated: January 27, 2026

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Decline in UK new car sales and rise of EVs in November 2023 - Global Banking & Finance Review
This image illustrates the decline in UK new car sales by 2% in November 2023, highlighting the rise of electric vehicles meeting mandate targets, as reported by the SMMT.
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UK Car Sales Decline 2% in November, EVs Exceed Targets

(Reuters) - New car registrations in Britain fell about 2% in November, according to preliminary industry data released on Thursday.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said the overall market share for battery electric cars exceeded the mandate target for the first time in November due to record levels of discounting.

Britain's strict Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandates demand that automakers sell a higher proportion of EVs each year or face fines per non-compliant vehicle sold.

Year-to-date demand for battery electric cars remains at around 19%, according to the preliminary data.

SMMT will provide final figures for November at 9:00 a.m. GMT.

(Reporting by Raechel Thankam Job; Editing by Shreya Biswas)

Key Takeaways

  • UK car sales fell by about 2% in November.
  • Battery electric cars exceeded market share targets.
  • Discounting led to record electric vehicle sales.
  • SMMT to release final figures soon.
  • Zero Emission Vehicle mandates influence sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main topic?
The main topic is the decline in UK car sales by 2% in November and the rise in battery electric car sales.
What influenced the rise in electric car sales?
Record levels of discounting and Zero Emission Vehicle mandates influenced the rise in electric car sales.
Who provided the preliminary data?
The preliminary data was provided by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

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