More than 140,000 new electric cars have been purchased with support from the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant during the first year of the scheme, highlighting continued growth in the country’s transition towards zero-emission motoring.
According to figures released by the Department for Transport (DfT), the grant has now been applied to over 140,000 eligible electric vehicles, with motorists able to receive discounts of either £3,750 or £1,500, depending on the vehicle. At present, 58 electric car models qualify for the incentive.
Which Cars Qualify for the Electric Car Grant?
As of July 2026, 58 electric car models are eligible for the Government’s Electric Car Grant. Popular qualifying models include the Ford Puma Gen-E, Nissan LEAF, Renault 5, Volkswagen ID.3, Skoda Enyaq, Kia EV4 and Peugeot E-208. The list is updated regularly as manufacturers gain approval for additional vehicles. Drivers can check the latest eligible models on the Government’s official list before ordering a new EV.
The Government believes the scheme has played a significant role in accelerating EV adoption across the UK. Official registration figures show battery electric vehicle registrations increased by 35% year-on-year in June, while March 2026 recorded the highest monthly level of new EV registrations on record.
Grant Also Supports UK Manufacturing
The Electric Car Grant is not solely focused on making EVs more affordable for consumers. Eligibility also considers the environmental impact of vehicle production and supply chains, encouraging manufacturers to invest in lower-carbon manufacturing.
One example highlighted by the Government is the latest Nissan Leaf, which is produced at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Sunderland, supporting both domestic vehicle production and the UK’s wider decarbonisation ambitions.
Government Says EV Demand Continues to Accelerate
Keir Mather, Minister for Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation, said the scheme has exceeded expectations during its first year.
He said the grant has helped more than 140,000 drivers reduce the cost of buying a new electric vehicle, with discounts of up to £3,750 available. He also pointed to the continued growth in EV registrations, noting that almost one in every three new cars sold is now fully electric.
Mather added that falling ownership costs, alongside estimated running cost savings of up to £1,400, make switching to an electric vehicle increasingly attractive, particularly as fuel prices remain unpredictable.
RAC Welcomes Continued Government Support
The RAC has welcomed the success of the scheme, stating that financial incentives remain an important factor in helping more drivers move to electric vehicles.
Simon Williams, Head of Policy at the RAC, said the organisation had long supported the return of purchase incentives, adding that the grant is already delivering measurable improvements in EV uptake.
He noted that the higher purchase price of new electric vehicles has remained one of the biggest barriers for many buyers. With 58 qualifying models now available across a wider range of budgets, motorists have greater choice than ever before.
Williams also highlighted the long-term benefit for the used car market, explaining that today’s new EV sales will eventually increase the supply of more affordable second-hand electric vehicles.
Carwow Reports Rising Consumer Interest
Consumer interest also appears to be strengthening.
According to John Veichmanis, Chief Executive of Carwow Group, electric vehicles now account for 34% of all car-buying enquiries made through the platform. Before the Electric Car Grant was introduced, EVs represented around 24% of enquiries, suggesting the financial incentive has encouraged more motorists to consider making the switch.
Discover More Electric Vehicle News & Fleet Guides
The UK’s electric vehicle market continues to evolve, with new Government incentives, changing tax rules and expanding model choices making EVs an increasingly attractive option for both businesses and private motorists. Whether you’re considering your first electric car, growing an EV fleet or keeping up with the latest industry developments, our expert articles are here to help.
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