From niche to normal: how electric cars have taken over UK showrooms
Car changing is a big deal
Electric cars have moved from a niche curiosity to a mainstream choice in the UK, with drivers now able to choose from more than 167 models, new data shows.
Electric cars have undergone a dramatic transformation in Britain over the past decade, evolving from a niche technology with limited appeal into a mainstream part of everyday motoring, according to new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The SMMT figures show UK drivers can choose from more than 167 electric models, compared with just 14 in 2016. Electric cars now account for more than two in five models available on the market, reflecting a major shift in consumer choice and manufacturer investment.
This expansion means motorists can now find electric options in virtually every class: from compact city cars through to family SUVs and luxury saloons. Britain’s supercar manufacturers such as Aston Martin and Bentley Motors are also embracing electrification, initially through hybrid tech and with plans for fully electric models in future.
Manufacturers say that advances in battery tech have helped remove one of the biggest barriers to adoption. The average electric driving range now exceeds 300 miles. That’s comfortably above the average weekly mileage driven by most UK motorists.
The number of brands offering electric cars in Britain has also surged, rising from 12 in 2016 to 51 today, according to the SMMT data. This underlines the scale of industry investment in decarbonisation and zero-emission tech.
| Category | 2016 | 2026 (YTD/forecast) |
|---|---|---|
| New electric car models on sale | 14 | 167 |
| Electric car share of new car market1 | 3.4% | 26.8% (f) |
| New electric car registrations¹ | 10,264 | 562,000 (f) |
| Electric cars on UK roads² | 29,938 | Approx 2 million |
| Public charging devices³ | 6,546 | 93,394 |
| Typical electric car range | 80-150 miles | 250-500+ miles |
| Number of brands offering electric cars | 12 | 51 |
| Consumer perception | Niche | Mainstream consideration |
- SMMT April market outlook
- 1,797,809 battery electric cars FY 2025 plus 176,698 new registrations Jan-April 2026
- Zapmap data
Electrification is no longer limited to electric cars alone. Plug-in hybrid and hybrid models now make up more than 42% of available cars, while electrified powertrains overall feature in more than four out of five new vehicle models sold in the UK.
Consumer demand has also risen sharply alongside this growth in choice. Battery electric car registrations climbed from just over 10,000 in 2016 to more than 473,000 last year, increasing EV market share from 0.4% to 23.4%.
Mike Hawes, SMMT’s chief executive, said: “Ten years ago, electric cars were a curiosity for many drivers. Today, they are a core part of the UK new car market, with unprecedented choice, longer battery range and growing consumer appetite.
“Massive manufacturer investment has delivered this progress, but continued government action to accelerate demand and support manufacturer investment is essential to keep the transition on track.”
What are the best electric cars on sale?
We’ve ranked 10 of the best electric cars on sale in the UK for you to check out:
- Mercedes CLA Electric
- BMW iX3
- Kia EV3
- Skoda Elroq
- Renault 5
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
- Fiat Grande Panda Electric
- Tesla Model Y Premium
- Citroen e-C3
- BYD Seal
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.