A nation of manufacturers – and motorists
Britain’s position as a country with a world renowned and export-led automotive sector has been under the spotlight over the last fortnight with the focus on tariffs, trade and Trump. But Britain should also be characterised by our love of motoring, which continues unabated. Our latest annual census of vehicles – SMMT Motorparc data – presents a compelling snapshot of how we travel, work and live, dependent on a record 42 million vehicles in use across the UK in 2024.
Light vehicle usage continues to grow, with 36.2 million cars and 5.1 million vans now in operation. Van volumes have risen by more than a million over the past decade, reflecting growth in e-commerce, logistics and construction. In contrast, the number of HGVs and buses has remained largely static over the past year, which is disappointing when you consider that the UK’s public transport fleet is now the smallest since records began.
What is clear is that the parc is changing. Sustained investment from manufacturers means more than one million electric vehicles are now in use but EVs still account for just one in every 27 cars on the road. Moreover, the average car on our roads is now approaching 10 years old, with two in five vehicles having been in use for more than a decade. While this is a testament to vehicle durability and engineering quality, it also underlines the critical need for fleet renewal and improved economic confidence to encourage drivers to invest in a newer vehicle. A healthy high-volume new vehicle market – particularly one that accelerates uptake of zero emission models – will be critical if we are to deliver the UK’s decarbonisation goals.
Manufacturers are already delivering value through expanded product ranges and extensive discounting, but long-term progress requires broader support – notably, meaningful fiscal incentives and infrastructure development. Addressing these barriers will help more consumers access the lower running costs and environmental benefits EVs can offer, and maximise opportunities to decarbonise our fleet, along with its accompanying advantages of improved air quality and safety.
SMMT continues to engage constructively with government to drive that transition and we are therefore pleased to announce that the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP, will deliver the keynote address at our upcoming International Automotive Summit on 24 June in London. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation about our industry’s future – register now to secure your place
Finally, as we look to the future of mobility and the people who will power it, we are also celebrating its heritage. In partnership with the British Motor Museum, SMMT is offering four auto apprentices a once-in-a-lifetime chance to drive a 1904 Thornycroft Tourer – still running strong after 120 years – in this year’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The competition, open to apprentices currently employed by SMMT members, closes on 30 April. Further information can be found here.