The UK’s used car market is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, driven largely by electric vehicles (EVs), which saw a staggering 67% increase in sales during the second quarter of 2026. This boost helped push overall used car transactions past the two million mark for the first time since 2021, revealing a shift in consumer preferences and a growing acceptance of electric mobility.
Electric Vehicles Lead the Charge
According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), a total of 2,009,318 used cars were sold between April and June, representing a modest 0.7% increase compared to the same period last year. This resurgence in sales marks a significant rebound for the used car market, which is now just 1.2% shy of pre-pandemic levels.
The standout performer in this quarter was the fully-electric vehicle segment, which recorded 110,761 sales—an impressive 67% rise and the highest quarterly growth since early 2024. Electric vehicles now hold a record 5.5% share of the total used market, a notable increase from 3.3% during the same quarter in 2025. This means that roughly one in every 18 second-hand buyers opted for an EV, highlighting a rapid shift in consumer attitudes towards greener options.
Market Dynamics at Play
April was particularly strong for used EV sales, which more than doubled, reflecting a 110.9% increase. The trend continued into May with a 57.6% rise and a more modest 37.8% growth in June. Analysts attribute the initial surge in April to rising fuel prices, partly linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions, which may have prompted consumers to reconsider their fuel choices. Additionally, comparisons to a weaker sales period last year—when changes to vehicle excise duty were implemented—further emphasise the current growth momentum.
While electric vehicles are gaining traction, traditional petrol and diesel cars still dominate the market, making up 86.7% of all used car sales. Petrol cars accounted for 1,121,243 transactions, a slight decrease of 1.2%, while diesel sales fell by 7.2% to 620,045, reflecting a decrease in new diesel vehicles entering the used market.
The Broader Used Car Landscape
Hybrid vehicles also made significant strides, with sales increasing by 31.2% to 130,825 units, raising their market share from 5% to 6.5%. However, plug-in hybrids struggled, with transactions decreasing by 6.8% to 22,856, indicating a shift in consumer preference towards fully electric options.
The SMMT’s Chief Executive Mike Hawes remarked, “The return to growth is encouraging for both motorists and the automotive sector, with used EV sales rising sharply as more options become available. However, for this transition to benefit all drivers, we need a plentiful and affordable supply, which may be jeopardised by increasingly stringent targets in the new car market. Regulatory reform is essential to ensure a smooth transition.”
Consumer Preferences: Colour and Style
In terms of vehicle preferences, smaller cars continue to reign supreme in the used market, with superminis making up 31.7% of sales, closely followed by lower-medium cars at 26.6%. Interestingly, the demand for dual-purpose vehicles, including SUVs, has surged, with a 7.4% increase in market share, reaching 17.7%.
When it comes to colour choices, buyers are opting for classic shades, with black, grey, and white accounting for 56.5% of sales. Black cars saw a 0.7% increase, while grey and white cars experienced growth rates of 4.1% and 4.7%, respectively. Blue remains popular despite a slight decline, while silver has seen a drop in sales of 6.4%.
Why it Matters
The accelerating shift towards electric vehicles in the used car market signifies a critical turning point for the UK’s automotive landscape. As consumer acceptance of EVs grows, it not only reflects changing attitudes towards sustainability but also presents opportunities for a more diverse and robust second-hand market. This trend is essential for the UK’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to greener transportation, making it imperative for stakeholders to address supply challenges and regulatory hurdles to sustain this momentum.