Sales of electric vehicles saw a sharp increase of almost 60% last month due to the surge in petrol prices triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealed that out of over 149,200 new cars registered in April, nearly 39,100 were battery electric cars. The growing interest in electric cars is attributed to cost-saving motives, with drivers seeking alternatives to offset rising fuel expenses. The escalation of petrol and diesel prices since February, driven by the Iran conflict, has further fueled the shift towards electric vehicles.
Overall car sales rose by 24% compared to the previous year, although this growth is measured against a weak April in 2025. Petrol-fueled cars remained the preferred choice, with sales increasing by 8% to 63,541 in April. Conversely, the popularity of diesel vehicles continued to decline, with a 1% drop in new car sales to 6,341 during the same period.
Despite reaching the milestone of two million electric car registrations in the UK in April, the SMMT cautioned that electric vehicles are unlikely to achieve the market share targets set by the government. While the SMMT revised its forecast for total new car sales in 2026 to nearly 2.1 million, it lowered the projected market share for battery electric vehicles from 28.5% to 26.8%. The organization anticipates that this share will only marginally increase to 32% by the following year, falling short of the government’s objectives.
Commenting on the situation, the SMMT acknowledged the uncertainties brought by the Iran conflict and its potential impact on the interest in electric vehicles amid concerns about inflation and rising energy costs affecting the cost of living. The chief executive, Mike Hawes, emphasized the need for a swift review of the transition process to align policies with market realities to safeguard Britain’s status as a competitive vehicle market and manufacturing hub.
Colin Walker, head of transport at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, highlighted the significant 59% surge in electric vehicle sales in April, attributing it to the escalating petrol prices resulting from the Middle East conflict. The increased adoption of electric cars not only shields drivers from oil price fluctuations but also contributes to reducing the UK’s reliance on oil, enhancing energy security through the utilization of renewable sources.
Walker cautioned against delaying the transition to electric vehicles, as it could jeopardize the automotive industry, consumer welfare, and the country’s energy security goals. The shift towards electric vehicles aligns with the overarching aim of achieving net zero emissions and reducing environmental impact.
James Hosking, managing director of AA Cars, noted the positive trend in the new car market extending beyond the typical March surge, indicating sustained buyer interest amid economic pressures. High fuel prices, influenced by geopolitical tensions, are driving consumer preferences towards electric vehicles as individuals seek stability in running costs. While the appeal of electric cars now includes financial advantages alongside environmental benefits, affordability remains a critical consideration for prospective buyers amid increased borrowing costs and household financial constraints.