Tesla has helped create a stir in the UK new car registrations rankings in August thanks to the successful introduction of the Model 3 electric car.
The brand is listed under the ‘Other’ category by UK trade body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders – and, in an unprecedented result, this category came out THIRD in the August best-sellers rankings, ahead of top sellers such as Ford Focus, Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Vauxhall Corsa.
It was an 847 percent increase for the ‘other imports’ category, driven largely by the long-awaited British introduction of the U.S.-built Model 3.
Following a launch ceremony on June 20th, UK Model 3 deliveries gathered pace during August, which also contributed to a 377 percent increase in fully electric car deliveries in August, to 3,147 models.
In August 2018, just 659 battery electric vehicles were delivered to UK customers.
Tesla has previously not registered enough cars in Britain to be listed as a separate brand in the rankings. The immediate success of the Model 3 suggests this may soon change.
Motoring Research has approached the electric car firm for comment.
The Tesla boost helped limit last month’s decline in UK new car registrations to 1.6 percent. That’s just 1,521 fewer cars than August 2018.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “August is typically the new car market’s quietest month so the huge increase in EV registrations is very visible but especially welcome. It’s great to see consumers respond to the massive industry investment made over many years.
“While this is encouraging, these figures also show the scale of the challenge ahead. It’s a long road to zero and while manufacturers can deliver the technology, they can’t dictate the pace of uptake.
“To support a smooth transition and deliver environmental gains now, we need a long-term government commitment to measures that give consumers confidence to invest in the latest technologies that best suit their needs.”
August 2019 new car best sellers
1: Ford Fiesta
2: Volkswagen Golf
3: Other
4: Ford Focus
5: Mercedes-Benz A-Class
6: Ford Kuga
7: Volkswagen T-Roc
8: Volkswagen Tiguan
9: Vauxhall Corsa
10: Ford Ecosport
