Running flat: Sales of battery-electric cars in the UK and across Europe reached 152,968 in May, down 11% from the year before
Electric car sales across Europe have tumbled as drivers baulk at high prices and poor charging infrastructure.
Sales of new battery-electric cars in the UK and across Europe reached 152,968 in May, down 11 per cent from the year before.
The slump was driven by particularly weak demand in Germany, where sales plunged 30 per cent, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA). The Netherlands also reported a 12.5 per cent fall last month.
Overall new car sales fell by 3 per cent in May compared with the same period of 2023.
The excitement around electric cars has cooled as concerns mount over the cost of the vehicles as well as the lack of chargers. Despite the overall fall in EV sales, France reported a 44.8 per cent rise.
It has maintained a generous grant scheme, which offers financial backing to drivers opting for electric.
The UK also enjoyed a 6.2 per cent jump in May, with 26,031 fully electric vehicles registered.
However, the EU has been worried that Chinese firms such as BYD and Geely have flooded the market with cheap cars.