Number of battery electric cars on the UK's road passes the 500,000 mark - RAC reaction

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Reacting to the fact that there are now more than 500,000 zero-emission battery electric cars on the UK’s roads, RAC EV spokesperson Simon Williams said:

“While the global chip shortage is still hampering overall demand for new vehicles, June’s figures mean that the total number of battery electric cars on the roads has surpassed the half-a-million milestone – a ray of light in what is otherwise a gloomy set of new vehicle registration figures.

“Moreover, sales of all plug-in vehicles including plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) now account for one-in-five registrations which clearly shows that desire for electrified vehicles shows no signs of waning, with the record petrol and diesel prices no doubt having an effect. However, sales of PHEVs appear to be down on 2021, which could be a sign that drivers are biting the bullet and jumping straight into an all-electric vehicle rather than using PHEVs as a stepping stone.” ​

Find out more about the RAC's services for electric car drivers.

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About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

The RAC is an iconic British motoring organisation and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted brands, providing complete peace of mind to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric‑ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

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