New Car Sales Soar to Best February Since 2004 Despite Slowing EV Demand
UK sees more than 90,000 new car sales in February 2026, marking a 22-year high amid a slowdown in electric vehicle growth.
At a glance
- February 2026 new car sales in the UK surpassed 90,000, the best for the month since 2004.
- Electric vehicle sales growth has stalled, now accounting for about one in four new cars sold.
- Overall demand for new cars reached a 22-year high despite the EV slowdown.
- The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders noted strong car sales performance for February.
What happened
In February 2026, the UK experienced the highest new car sales for that month since 2004, with more than 90,000 vehicles sold. This surge was driven by strong demand across the automotive sector despite a notable deceleration in growth for electric vehicles (EVs). While EV sales remain significant, they currently make up roughly 25% of new car sales, falling behind government targets for EV adoption.
Why it matters now
This trend is significant as it reflects a strong recovery or sustained demand in the automotive market that contrasts with a slowing momentum specifically in the electric vehicle segment. The dynamics between overall car sales growth and EV market share are key indicators for industry stakeholders and policymakers tracking progress toward environmental targets.
What changed
- New car sales in February 2026 hit the highest level since 2004 with over 90,000 units sold.
- Electric vehicle demand growth has stalled, and EV sales now represent about 25% of new cars sold.
- The car market demand reached a 22-year peak despite challenges in the EV segment.
- Automotive industry experts highlight this as a critical development contrasting total market health with EV-specific demand shifts.
Latest updates
Autocar reports over 90,000 new car sales in February 2026, marking the best February for new car sales since 2004.
Auto Express highlights growth in EV demand has stalled with EV sales now a third behind government targets despite best new car sales since 2004.
The Independent reports February new car demand in the UK hitting a 22-year high with strong industry performance noted by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Business Green notes that EVs now account for one in four new cars sold in February, indicating progress but also a slowdown in demand growth.
Sources
Verified reporting from 1 trusted sources. Updated 6 March 2026 at 19:03.
Top domains: independent.co.uk
- February demand for new cars hit 22-year high
independent.co.uk
What is still unclear
- This summary is based on data available as of early March 2026 and may not reflect changes occurring after this date.
- Reported figures and trends are drawn from multiple sources including Autocar, Auto Express, The Independent, and Business Green as linked.
FAQs
- Q1What was significant about car sales in February 2026?
- February 2026 saw the highest number of new car sales in the UK since 2004, with over 90,000 vehicles sold.
- Q2How did electric vehicle sales perform in February 2026?
- Electric vehicle sales growth stalled in February 2026, with EVs accounting for about one in four new cars sold, below government targets.
- Q3What does the stall in EV demand mean for the automotive market?
- While overall new car sales are strong, the slowing EV demand highlights challenges in reaching government adoption targets and shifts in consumer preferences.
