24th Apr 2026 01:52
(Alliance News) - The total number of vehicles on UK roads reached record levels in 2025, an industry association reported Friday.
According to new Motorparc data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders, the total UK vehicle fleet grew by 1.4% in 2025 to 42.5 million vehicles.
The number of cars increased by 1.4% to 36.7 million, marking the fourth year in a row of growth and the second largest volume increase since 2016.
Van volumes also increased by 1.4% to 5.2 million and trucks edged up 0.2% to 626,566 units, both achieving record levels.
Meanwhile, the UK's bus and coach fleet grew for the first time since 2021 with a 0.2% rise to 71,300 units.
"Last year saw the new bus market reach the highest level since 2008, with 2,523 zero emission buses entering service, indicating significant fleet renewal," the SMMT said.
Furthermore, battery electric cars jumped 35% to a record 1.8 million units.
"The UK's cars are getting older, with the average age rising to 9.7 years, up from 9.5 in 2024, as motorists hold onto vehicles for longer amid cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty," the SMMT said.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, commented: "Britain's vehicle parc is growing with record numbers of newer zero emission vehicles on our roads driving environmental, economic and safety benefits. This is grounds for celebration but the pace has to quicken if ambition is to match demand with the average age of vehicles on our roads actually rising."
By Elijah Dale, Alliance News senior reporter Asia-Pacific
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