‘ May’s new car registration figures have continued the positive momentum seen last month, increasing by 7.1%, ’ said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK commenting on the latest SMMT new car registration figures. In May, a total of 160,662 new cars were registered, an increase of 7.1%, showing the best performance for the month since 2019. Sales to private buyers increased by 17.2% whilst fleet registrations also increased, with a 1.8% change. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) registered a 34.2% change, to take 27.3% of the market, the highest recorded so far in 2026 ,while Plug-in hybrid (PHEVs) registered 22,167 units, marking a 23.9% change and hybrids (HEVs) registered 20,719, rising 1.8%. Registrations of petrol and diesel cars fell by -7.1%; Diesel saw 7,622 units registered and petrol also decreased to 66,223 units. Sue Robinson added: ‘ These figures are encouraging and demonstrate the resilience of the UK automotive market. It is particularly positive to see continued demand for electrified vehicles as consumers increasingly consider lower emission motoring options due to the continued high price of fuel. Franchised dealers continue to play a vital role in supporting customers through the transition to zero emission vehicles, investing significantly in facilities, training and consumer education. We hope this positive momentum continues throughout the remainder of the year .’