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More than half of UK dealers interviewed by AM are reporting that fully electric vehicles (EVs) account for at least 25% of their used car sales, according to a recent survey conducted by AM, commissioned by Black Horse.*

Black Horse commissioned the survey of automotive retail industry professionals to gain a snapshot of views from UK dealerships on their thoughts around EVs and sustainability.

The indication that dealers’ confidence is building within the used EV market signals further momentum, which is a positive sign due to the perception of subdued retail demand for zero emission vehicles.

The survey also found that of those surveyed over two-thirds have also increased their new car EV sales mix to up to 25%, reflecting the role they are playing in helping their manufacturer partners to reach challenging Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate targets, which increase to 28% of all new car sales this year.

The overall EV market, which includes fleet registrations, saw record annual volume and market share at 19.6% in December 2024, according to the latest Society of Motor Manufacturer and Trader (SMMT) figures.

Nearly every respondent said they are not facing a lack of engagement or enthusiasm from their teams in the showroom to engage with EVs.

Despite these strides, the road to widespread EV adoption is not without its challenges. Concerns about affordability, retail demand and aftersales revenue remain top of mind for many respondents.

Dealers are addressing these hurdles with a focus on customer education. Nearly three-quarters of survey participants expressed high confidence in their ability to answer customer queries about EVs.

Over a third of respondents have dedicated web pages to inform customers about EVs, while just under a quarter are including video guides.

Well over half of those surveyed have dedicated resources in place to help inform their customers about EVs.

Preston Rogers, Black Horse consumer distribution director at Lloyds Banking Group, highlighted the importance of dealerships acting now to position themselves for the future. While EVs may currently represent a small percentage of stock, this number is set to grow rapidly as government mandates and consumer preferences shift.

Access the full report here

For the use of motor dealers and other professionals only. Black Horse Limited. Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered Number: 661204 England and Wales. Black Horse Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

*Survey conducted by AM (commissioned by Black Horse)