# UK New Car Sales Dip in August as Buyers Await September Numberplate Change
## Introduction
In August, UK new car sales experienced a slight decline as buyers held off on making purchases in anticipation of the September numberplate change. According to data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), registrations dropped by 1.3% compared to the same period last year. Despite this dip, the market is still on track to surpass its 2023 total of 1.9 million sales, with sales up by 480,443 year on year to 1.2 million so far in 2024.
## Top-Selling Cars in August
The best-selling car of the year, the Ford Puma, maintained its lead in August, with 2,471 units sold. It was closely followed by the Kia Sportage with 1,962 sales. However, the Nissan Qashqai, which came in third place, only managed to sell 1,170 units.
## Rise in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Sales
August saw a significant increase in sales of hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs). Sales of hybrid cars were up by 3,088 compared to the previous year, while EV sales increased by 1,870. EVs accounted for 22.6% of the market share in August, the highest for a month since December 2022. This increase can be attributed to manufacturers offering discounts on EVs to avoid fines under the UK’s new zero-emission vehicle mandate, which imposes penalties of £15,000 per car.
## SMMT’s Forecast for EV Sales
The SMMT predicts that EV sales will reach 364,000 in 2024, falling short of the mandated 22% proportion of overall sales. SMMT CEO Mike Hawes used these figures to urge the government to reintroduce incentives for EV buyers and owners. He emphasized the need for urgent action to address affordability issues and concerns about charge-point provision, stating that encouraging a mass market shift to EVs remains a challenge.
## Conclusion
While UK new car sales experienced a slight dip in August, the market is still expected to surpass its 2023 total. The Ford Puma continues to dominate as the best-selling car of the year, followed closely by the Kia Sportage. The rise in hybrid and EV sales, driven by manufacturers’ discounts, has resulted in EVs capturing a significant market share. However, the SMMT highlights the need for government incentives to further promote EV adoption. With September’s numberplate change and the introduction of compelling offers and discounts, the market demand for cars is expected to increase, providing a true barometer for consumer preferences.