Ford Puma Back On Top As EV Registrations Rise

04/04/2025 14:48 Share

Ford Puma Back On Top As EV Registrations Rise

The Ford Puma was the best-selling car in the UK in March – and by some margin – after a busy month in which the number of new electric cars hit a record high.

More than 11,000 versions of Ford’s small SUV were registered during the month which was well clear of the Kia Sportage – meaning the Puma now also leads the figures for the yesar as a whole.

Although petrol powered cars accounted for nearly half of all new cars registered, the number of electric cars rose by more than 40% compared to twelve months ago to a record high of 69,313 – driven in part by changes to the rules around car tax that came into force at the start of April.

The number of plug-in hybrids and hybrids also rose albeit not to the same level.

Combined, figures across the month were up 12.4% on the same month in 2024 with particular growth in private sales.

It means that the year to date figures now show new car registrations are up by 6.4% on 2024 although BEV sales still below the required levels at 20.7%.

“A welcome return to growth, and substantial growth at that, is a fillip for the industry,” chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Mike Hawes said. “Moreover, with March being the best month ever for electric car registrations, there is reason for optimism.

“Manufacturers remain committed to the market decarbonisation the country and the environment demands, but we need sustained growth, not a short-term bubble driven by unsustainable manufacturer discounting and drivers rushing to beat a tax hike.

“Without substantive government support for consumers, the current regulatory regime is undeliverable. A rapid response to the government consultation is therefore needed - one that adds flexibilities that reflect the natural level of demand and supports the industry to deliver growth in the face of a tough set of global challenges.”

Top March Registrations:

Full Year 2025: