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UK new car market sees slight rise in October, SMMT data shows

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on November 5, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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UK new car market sees slight rise in October, SMMT data shows
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(Reuters) -Britain's new car market rose by just under 1% in October, according to preliminary industry data released on Wednesday, with battery electric vehicles accounting for one in every four new

UK new car market sees slight rise in October, SMMT data shows

Overview of the UK New Car Market

(Reuters) -Britain's new car market rose by just under 1% in October, according to preliminary industry data released on Wednesday, with battery electric vehicles accounting for one in every four new cars in the month.

Growth in Electric Vehicle Sales

The latest industry outlook expects the overall market to breach two million units this year for the first time since 2019, data by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed.

Industry Projections for 2023

The final figures for October will be published at 0900 GMT.

Upcoming Data Releases

(Reporting by Yamini Kalia in Bengaluru; Editing by Rashmi Aich)

Key Takeaways

  • UK car market rose by just under 1% in October.
  • Battery electric vehicles accounted for 25% of new cars.
  • Market expected to exceed two million units in 2023.
  • Final figures for October to be published soon.
  • SMMT provides industry data and projections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UK new car market?
The UK new car market refers to the sales of newly manufactured vehicles in the United Kingdom, which includes various types of cars such as electric vehicles, hybrids, and traditional combustion engine vehicles.
What are battery electric vehicles?
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are cars that are powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries. They do not use gasoline or diesel and produce zero tailpipe emissions.
What is the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)?
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is a trade association in the UK that represents the automotive industry, providing data, insights, and advocacy for its members.
What are electric vehicle sales?
Electric vehicle sales refer to the number of electric cars sold within a specific timeframe, highlighting the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation options.

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