In 2024, around **** million motor vehicles were sold in the United Kingdom, down from its peak at around *** million units in 2016. Sales recovery does not match 2019 levels In 2024, the UK was the second-largest car market in Europe. New passenger car registrations had grown in the country in 2023, up to the highest volume recorded since their dramatic drop in 2020. However, amid Brexit, the automotive semiconductor shortage, raw material price inflation, and an overall cost of living crisis, the UK's automotive industry has faced various challenges and has yet to reach its pre-COVID-19 pandemic level. The impact of inflation on car purchases The United Kingdom recorded its highest inflation rate since the 1990s in 2022, a situation that marginally improved in 2023. And, in 2024, the average inflation rate dropped to **** percent. New cars were particularly impacted by the inflation, with their consumer price index being at its highest in the past 15 years in 2023. Despite the inflating prices, car purchasing intentions remained relatively stable based on surveys ending in September 2023 and September 2024, with around **** of UK residents reporting their intention of buying a car in the 12 months following the survey. This is, however, a positive development compared to purchase intentions reported in that same survey ending in September 2022.

Concerning the **** selected segments, the segment Ford has the largest number of vehicle sales with ******* vehicles. Contrastingly, Kia is ranked last, with ****** vehicles. Their difference, compared to Ford, lies at ******* vehicles. Find more statistics on other topics: a comparison of the number of vehicle sales by make in Estonia and a comparison of the number of vehicle sales by make in Lithuania. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

Key information about United Kingdom Motor Vehicles Sales Growth

• United Kingdom Motor Vehicles Sales grew 16.5 % in Dec 2023, compared with a decrease of 5.1 % in the previous year.
• UK Motor Vehicles Sales Growth rate is updated yearly, available from Dec 2006 to Dec 2023, with an average growth rate of 1.1 %.
• The data reached an all-time high of 16.5 % in Dec 2023 and a record low of -28.2 % in Dec 2020.
• Car Sales of UK recorded 2,263,666.0 units in Dec 2023.

Motorists in the United Kingdom bought some 9.14 million cars in 2024, over 7.2 million of which were used cars. The previous year, the average household expenditure on used cars and vans in the UK was around 20.2 British pounds per week.

Concerning the *** selected segments, the segment SUVs has the largest number of vehicle sales by make with ******* vehicles. Contrastingly, Luxury Cars is ranked last, with ***** vehicles. Their difference, compared to SUVs, lies at ******* vehicles. Find other insights concerning similar markets and segments, such as a ranking of subsegments in Greece regarding volume share of different fuel types in the Passenger Cars market as a whole and a ranking of subsegments in Germany regarding volume share of different fuel types in the Passenger Cars market as a whole. The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

Key information about United Kingdom Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars

• United Kingdom Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars was reported at 1,903,054.000 Unit in Dec 2023.
• This records an increase from the previous number of 1,614,063.000 Unit for Dec 2022.
• UK Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars data is updated yearly, averaging 2,264,737.000 Unit from Dec 2005 to 2023, with 19 observations.
• The data reached an all-time high of 2,692,786.000 Unit in 2016 and a record low of 1,614,063.000 Unit in 2022.
• UK Motor Vehicle Sales: Passenger Cars data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers.
• The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Association: Automobile Sector – Table RA.OICA.MVS: Motor Vehicle Sales: by Country and Type: Passenger Car (PC).

The UK used car market, valued at £126.78 million in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.70% from 2025 to 2033. This surge is driven by several factors. Increasing vehicle affordability compared to new cars, particularly in the face of economic uncertainty and rising new car prices, fuels demand. The shift towards online car purchasing platforms offers convenience and transparency, broadening market reach and accelerating sales. Furthermore, the evolving preferences for specific body types – SUVs and MPVs currently demonstrating strong growth – influence market segmentation. Government initiatives promoting electric vehicles (EVs) are also gradually impacting the fuel type segment, albeit with a slower adoption rate than anticipated due to charging infrastructure limitations and higher initial costs. However, the market faces challenges. Fluctuations in used car prices due to supply chain issues and inflation remain a significant restraint, alongside concerns about the environmental impact of increased used car sales. The growth of the organized sector, represented by large dealerships and online platforms like Cazoo and Auto Trader, is gradually squeezing out smaller, unorganized players. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with both established players like Arnold Clark Automobiles and Constellation Automotive Group, and rapidly growing online marketplaces like Cinch Cars vying for market share. The diverse range of sales channels – online and offline – offers consumers choice, contributing to market expansion. Future market growth will likely depend on the pace of EV adoption, the continued improvement of online car buying experiences, and the overall economic health of the UK. The consistent growth trajectory suggests that the used car market remains a significant sector of the UK economy, offering numerous opportunities for both established players and new entrants, provided they can navigate the challenges effectively. Successful strategies will likely involve a blend of robust online presence, competitive pricing, and a focus on addressing customer concerns about vehicle history and reliability. This report provides a detailed analysis of the United Kingdom used car market, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. It examines market size, growth drivers, challenges, and emerging trends, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders. With a focus on key segments like online sales, electric vehicles, and the rise of organized vendors, this report is essential for businesses looking to navigate the dynamic UK used car landscape. The base year for this report is 2025, with estimations for 2025 and a forecast period extending to 2033. The historical period analyzed is 2019-2024. Millions of units are used throughout to represent market size. Recent developments include: August 2023: Cazoo, the British online auto marketplace, released positive financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2023. This comes after the strategic decision to exit European businesses, focusing exclusively on its home turf in the United Kingdom. The move appears to have yielded favorable outcomes, contributing to the upbeat financial performance reported by Cazoo during this period.. Key drivers for this market are: Increased Travel and Tourism to Fuel Market Demand. Potential restraints include: High Maintenance cost of RV Rental Fleets. Notable trends are: The Offline Segment is Expected to Hold Major Share in the Market.

A lack of investment has pushed the UK Motor Vehicle Manufacturing industry into decline. Engine production is inching downwards as the industry struggles to attract investment because of higher EU production and multinationals wanting to be part of an integrated EU supply chain to reduce costs. The pandemic deepened the industry's troubles – output dropped by 29.3% in 2020, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) – and recovery has been challenging. Motor vehicle producers have also been plagued by semiconductor shortages and supply chain issues, which have elevated production costs, squeezing their returns. Petrol and diesel vehicle output is falling, further sinking revenue. Car makers have abandoned diesel vehicles to produce electric vehicles. Car makers’ revenue is forecast to fall at a compound annual rate of 3.6% over the five years through 2024-25 to £53.4 billion. There’s a glimmer of hope – hybrid and pure electric vehicle sales are rising, both at home and abroad. Output climbed in 2023, driven by a resurgence in exports of electric and hybrid cars to the EU. Manufacturers produced 905,117 car units in 2023. However, output dropped to 779,584 units in 2024 because of the transition to electric vehicles. Revenue is expected to drop by 4.2% in 2024-25, with the average profit margin forecast to reach 5.9%. Manufacturers are passing on higher production costs, and luxury vehicle sales are driving profit. To plot a path to recovery, car manufacturers will focus on making alternatively fuelled vehicles (AFVs) in response to the UK’s ban on selling new petrol and diesel vehicles in 2035. However, demand for AFVs is currently weak, threatening the industry’s growth potential – some car makers are questioning their future in the UK unless the government does more to drive up demand for electric vehicles. The government has poured more money into building electric charge points to boost uptake but has withdrawn subsidies for buying electric cars. Still, electric vehicles will dominate the market in the long term as public and private efforts are pointed towards net zero policies. Revenue is expected to expand at a compound annual rate of 5.2% over the five years through 2029-30 to reach £68.9 billion.

In 2023, some ******* new electric cars were registered in the United Kingdom. This was a year-over-year increase of **** percent compared to 2022 and over double the sales recorded in 2020. Overall, electric vehicle sales have steadily grown since 2015. A growing electric vehicle market and fleet Electric vehicles have been gaining market share in the United Kingdom. Since 2021, battery-electric vehicles overtook diesel vehicles and have been the second most popular fuel type in the country through 2022. The South East was the region of England with the largest electric car market, at around ****** new registrations in 2022, followed by the North West and South West. This increase in sales translates to a sharp rise in the UK electric vehicle fleet, which surpassed *********** units in 2022. Most of the vehicles in the electric car parc were battery-electric. Charging infrastructure and its challenges While the UK electric car fleet is steadily growing, the public charging infrastructure has also been on the rise. By July 2023, there were over ****** publicly available charging points in the United Kingdom. However, most of these chargers were alternating current chargers, which were typically slower than their direct current counterparts. Accessibility is also one of the leading hurdles for the UK charging network. Most public charging points were destination charging, typically located at the end of a driver's journey in areas such as retail car parks or education areas, and were not open around the clock, which presents challenges in how electric vehicle owners can recharge their vehicles without turning to private home charging.

Snapshot img

UK Used Car Market Size 2025-2029

The uk used car market size is forecast to increase by USD 39.5 billion, at a CAGR of 6.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The Used Car Market in the UK is driven by the excellent value for money proposition that pre-owned vehicles offer, making them an attractive alternative to new cars for many consumers. Another significant trend shaping the market is the increasing preference for car subscription services, which provide flexibility and convenience for customers. However, the market also faces challenges, including the growing importance of digital touchpoints in the car buying process and the need for dealers to adapt and improve their online presence. Additionally, the rise of car subscription services poses a threat to traditional dealership models, requiring dealers to explore new business models and revenue streams to remain competitive. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively should focus on enhancing their digital presence, offering flexible and convenient purchasing options, and exploring partnerships with car subscription services.

What will be the size of the UK Used Car Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The used car market in the UK is influenced by various factors, including the exterior and interior condition of the vehicles, financial history, economic trends, and consumer demand. Financially sound buyers prefer cars with well-maintained exteriors and interiors, ensuring lower car ownership costs in the long run. Economic trends, such as inflation and interest rates, impact car financing options and vehicle affordability. Maintaining a vehicle's fuel consumption within acceptable limits and adhering to the vehicle maintenance schedule is crucial for reliable performance and resale value. Financial institutions consider a vehicle's title, accident history, and service records when assessing car financing options. Emerging technologies, such as electric vehicles and autonomous driving, are transforming the industry, while insurance coverage, safety ratings, and vehicle age & mileage remain essential factors in consumer decision-making. Previous owners, engine size & type, transmission options, and vehicle features & equipment also influence consumer preferences. Car repair costs, loan terms, car financing options, and industry innovations contribute to market volatility. Registration documents, vehicle history records, and insurance coverage are essential for transparency and trust. Understanding the impact of these factors on car ownership costs is crucial for businesses operating in the UK used car market.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ChannelOrganizedUnorganizedVehicle TypeCompact carSUVMid sizeSales ChannelDealershipsOnline PlatformsPrivate SalesFuel TypePetrolDieselHybridElectricGeographyEuropeUK

By Channel Insights

The organized segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The used car market in the UK is characterized by various entities that influence its dynamics and trends. Depreciation and car insurance premiums are significant factors that impact the affordability of used cars. Safety features, a priority for consumers, are increasingly being incorporated into used vehicles through refinishing and upgrades. Car rental companies offer flexible mobility solutions, while automotive technology advances drive the adoption of vehicle diagnostics and digital car retailing. Used car dealerships and online marketplaces facilitate transactions with vehicle inspections, mileage verification, and consumer reviews. Sustainable transportation initiatives and online payment systems are shaping the market, as are car leasing agreements, price elasticity, and inflation rates. Fuel efficiency, car finance options, and driving assistance systems are key considerations for buyers. Government incentives and emissions standards influence consumer spending patterns, with a growing interest in alternative fuel vehicles and hybrid car technology. Fleet management services and car maintenance costs are essential services for businesses and individuals alike. Industry regulations and consumer protection laws ensure transparency and trust in the market. Used car warranty, customer satisfaction ratings, and brand reputation are crucial factors for buyers. The market share dynamics of organized companies, including dealership chains, online marketplaces, and OEM-affiliated dealerships, are shaped by their ability to provide guara

The Online Car Dealers and Automotive Goods Retailers industry revenue is expected to fall at a compound annual rate of 0.8% to £3.1 billion over the five years through 2024-25, including a forecast drop of 2.9% in 2024-25. The online car dealers and automotive goods retailers industry initially thrived during the pandemic due to lockdown periods restricting physical dealership visits, prompting consumers to turn to online car platforms for safety, which was highlighted by Cazoo's spectacular growth. However, as normalcy returned, demand waned, leading to Cazoo's eventual administration in May 2024. Economic challenges, including inflation and the cost-of-living crisis, have further strained sales, prompting online dealers to diversify offerings to stabilize revenue. Despite these setbacks, increased internet usage has compelled traditional dealerships like Auto Trader and Pendragon to enhance their digital presence, intensifying industry competition. As a result, major retailers are focusing on digital marketing to capture a broader customer base. Over the five years through 2029-30, revenue is expected to rise at a compound annual rate of 0.2% to reach £3.2 billion. Following a pandemic-induced surge, the online car dealers and automotive goods retailers industry has seen declining demand as consumers revert to traditional in-person dealerships for test drives and personalised services. The initial boost in online sales, driven by lockdowns and safety concerns, has waned post-pandemic. Cazoo's administration in May 2024 illustrates the industry's struggles, as high operational costs and dwindling demand challenge sustainability. The future performance of online retailers remains uncertain, as the tangible buying experience offered by traditional dealerships continues to attract consumers, questioning the long-term viability of online-only models. However, parts sales will continue flourishing as they offer convenience and do not require as much inspection as cars, driving the industry forward.

Key information about United Kingdom Motor Vehicles Sales

• United Kingdom Motor Vehicles Sales recorded 2,263,666 units in Dec 2023, compared with 1,943,572 units in the previous year.
• UK Motor Vehicles Sales is updated yearly, available from 2005 to 2023, with an averaged number of 2,595,713 units.
• The data reached an all-time high of 3,123,755 units in Dec 2016 and a record low of 1,943,572 units in Dec 2022.
• In the latest reports, Retail Sales of UK dropped 2 % YoY in May 2023.

The United Kingdom: New commercial vehicle sales, numbers per year: The latest value from 2023 is 360612 commercial vehicles, an increase from 329509 commercial vehicles in 2022. In comparison, the world average is 468008 commercial vehicles, based on data from 57 countries. Historically, the average for the United Kingdom from 2005 to 2023 is 355501 commercial vehicles. The minimum value, 227543 commercial vehicles, was reached in 2009 while the maximum of 430969 commercial vehicles was recorded in 2016.

Number of Businesses statistics on the Other Motor Vehicle Sales industry in the UK

Revenue is anticipated to grow at a compound annual rate of 0.4% to £146.6 billion over the five years through 2024-25, inducing a projected revenue growth of 3.6% in 2024-25, when the average profit margin is set to sit at 7.1%. New car registrations inched downwards in 2021-22 due to skyrocketing fuel prices and customers delaying sales. New car sales have been rising since 2022-23, driven by electric sales and plug-in hybrids, despite squeezed household incomes. According to the SMMT, rising sales in 2024-25 are driven by commercial and fleet customers. Stricter environmental laws, like the expansion of the ULEZ zone in London, are leading to higher business sales and elevating revenue. New car registrations are rising in 2024-25, mainly aided by fleet renewals and business customers switching to electric and hybrid vehicles. Sales of alternatively fuelled vehicles like battery, plug-in and hybrid electric vehicles are surging as environmental concerns continue to creep upwards. Electric vehicles have the most growth potential as interest in diesel vehicles plummets. Car makers and dealers are pushing more electric vehicles in preparation for the ban on traditional combustion engine vehicles. Revenue is projected to climb at a compound annual rate of 1.1% to £154.7 billion over the five years through 2029-30 when the average profit margin is set to be 6.8%. As consumer confidence and disposable income inch upwards, new car sales will rise, driving revenue up. Car financing options provide growth opportunities for car dealerships to boost profit. Sales of alternatively fuelled vehicles will gain further momentum, boosting revenue as fuel prices surge and customers take advantage of government investment in charging infrastructure and incentives to boost sales of electric vehicles. Plans to ban new petrol and diesel vehicle sales by 2035 and fines for car manufacturers that miss set targets will also push dealers to focus on AFVs.

Industry revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 3.4% to £20.2 billion over the five years through 2025-26, including revenue growth of 4% in 2025-26, where profit will be 8.6%. The pandemic led to a steep drop in revenue as car makers halted production and export orders fell off a cliff. Jaguar Land Rover reported that revenue fell in 2020-21 due to disruptions caused by the pandemic. Manufacturers have had to contend with supply chain issues and semiconductor shortages, raising costs and damaging profitability. The industry has fared better because of the growing popularity of SUVs and CUVs in UK and foreign markets. Easing supply chain issues was the main reason cited by Nissan when it reported a sharp jump in production to meet rising UK downstream orders for the Nissan Qashqai and Nissan Juke. Along with the Kia Sportage, SUVs and CUVs accounted for most registrations in the first three months of 2025, as shown by the SMMT, as UK motorists’ interest in larger vehicles has grown. Exports of luxury SUVs have been a success story for UK car makers, but the US government's introduction of 25% tariffs for British-made exports in March 2025 could derail orders. Jaguar Land Rover is the most exposed to tariffs, with the company pausing shipments for a month in April 2025. Exports to the US are critical to the industry’s success because luxury models like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan are popular with wealthy US customers. Revenue is forecast to rise at a compound annual rate of 3.9% to £24.5 billion over the five years through 2030-31, but profitability is set to drop due to rising steel and input costs. Business and consumer confidence will likely expand, and rising disposable income will boost domestic demand for SUVs and CUVs. Export demand will remain significant as luxury SUVs remain popular in the US and China. Nissan and Jaguar Land Rover will expand production of electric SUVs and CUVs. Nissan announced a £1 billion investment and committed to the production of an electric model at its Sunderland plant starting in 2025. The ban on the sale of diesel and petrol vehicles from 2035 will accelerate investment in electric drivetrains. However, the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate will raise compliance costs for car makers that fail to meet targets set to achieve 100% of electric vehicle sales by 2030.

The UK electric car market is experiencing robust growth, driven by government incentives, increasing environmental awareness, and advancements in battery technology. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 4% suggests a significant expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). While precise figures for the UK market size in 2025 are unavailable from the provided data, extrapolating from global trends and considering the UK's proactive electric vehicle adoption policies, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size would be in the range of £3-5 billion. This is supported by the significant investments from major automotive players like BMW, Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover, Hyundai, Volvo, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Toyota, and Ford, all actively competing within the UK market. These companies are not only launching new electric vehicle models but also investing heavily in charging infrastructure and battery production within the UK, further accelerating market growth. Segment-wise, passenger vehicles are expected to dominate the market share, closely followed by light commercial vehicles, driven by the increasing adoption of electric delivery vans and smaller commercial trucks in urban areas. While challenges remain, such as the initial higher purchase price of EVs and concerns over range anxiety, government subsidies and the expanding charging network are mitigating these barriers. The continued growth of the UK electric car market is projected to be influenced by several factors. Stringent emission regulations are pushing manufacturers to electrify their fleets. Furthermore, consumer preferences are shifting towards eco-friendly vehicles, creating sustained demand. Technological advancements, particularly in battery technology leading to longer ranges and faster charging times, are addressing consumer concerns. However, potential restraints include the availability of charging infrastructure in less populated areas and the ongoing cost of battery production, which can impact the overall affordability of electric vehicles. Sustained government support, coupled with technological improvements and a growing awareness of environmental responsibility among consumers, are likely to drive the UK electric car market towards substantial growth in the coming decade. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the dynamic UK electric car industry, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. It offers invaluable insights for businesses, investors, and policymakers navigating the complexities of this rapidly evolving sector. With a focus on key market trends, leading players, and future growth projections, this report is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand and participate in the UK's electric vehicle revolution. The report leverages a robust data set, including historical data (2019-2024), base year analysis (2025), and comprehensive forecasts (2025-2033) to deliver actionable intelligence. High-volume keywords like "UK electric car market," "electric vehicle sales UK," "EV charging infrastructure UK," and "electric car industry trends UK" are strategically incorporated for optimal search engine visibility. Recent developments include: November 2023: Ford motors and manufacturers 2030 have entered into a strategic Partnerships to help its suppliers achieve their CO2 reduction targets in line with Ford Motor Co.'s global objective of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.August 2023: Toyota Argentina announced that as it begins production of the Hiace in 2024 at its plant in Zárate, it will continue and enlarge the mission of the Conversions area, dedicated to designing and producing vehicles adapted to the specific needs of multiple customers.August 2023: The Dubai Police Department has placed an electric Mercedes EQS 580 on its fleet of luxury cars and environmentally conscious vehicles to patrol the streets.. Key drivers for this market are: Used Car Financing To Continue Solving Consumer Challenges In Indonesia. Potential restraints include: Trust And Transparency In Used Car Remained A Key Challenge For Consumers. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

Over ** percent of all used car transactions in the United Kingdom in 2021 were petrol cars. Plug-in electric vehicles were at the bottom of the ranking, with just onver ****** battery-electric cars sold in the UK. Overall, the used vehicle market made up the majority of passenger car sales in the UK in 2021.