UK motorists are able to enjoy the best-ever choice of zero emission models, with two in five now available as battery electric, according to new analysis by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The average BEV now capable of driving for almost 300 miles on a single charge, up from last year’s median of 235 miles, and the maximum range available in excess of 480 miles, the latter more than twice the average distance drivers travel in a week.

Car buyers can choose from more than 130 BEVs, up from 102 last year, while there are also over 100 plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and nearly 50 hybrids (HEV), meaning four out of five cars models are available with electrified powertrains.

The average PHEV electric-only range is just under 50 miles, with some models able to offer as much as 88 miles of zero emission motoring. BEVs now hold a 20.4% share of the UK new car market, up from 16.9% a year ago.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “There’s never been a better time to go electric – with more choice, better vehicle range and improving infrastructure offering a compelling driving proposition. But the market still isn’t moving fast enough so bold support for consumer EV uptake – notably investment in incentives and infrastructure – is needed to accelerate decarbonisation efforts and make switching open to all drivers.”

BEVs now hold a 20.4% share of the UK new car market, up from 16.9% a year ago