In early January 2025, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released their comprehensive report for 2024. It revealed that the UK new car market experienced its second consecutive year of growth, with 1,952,778 new cars hitting the roads in 2024—an increase of 2.6% from the previous year.
Notably, new battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations reached 43,656, in December 2024 accounting for 31.0% of the market, the highest level since December 2022. Consequently, BEVs represented 19.6% of the market (381,970 units) in 2024, showing a significant increase of over a fifth (67,283 units) compared to last year.
The SMMT also released their list of Best Sellers, highlighting the top models for December 2024, the full year, and the Top 10 Battery Electric Vehicles. In this blog, we will provide insights into the best-selling electric cars of 2024, some of which are also featured in the Lease Electric Top 10 EVs, as chosen by our customers.
SMMT's Top 10 Electric Cars sold in 2024
1.Tesla Model Y
SMMT has reported that in 2024, a total of 32,862 Tesla Model Ys were sold, securing its position as the best-selling electric vehicle and the fifth best-selling car among all fuel types in the UK.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact SUV that builds on the success of the Model 3, offering an impressive range of up to 326 miles on a single charge. Its interior is crafted to be spacious and contemporary, featuring advanced technologies and a stylish design, accentuated by a panoramic glass roof.
Standard features enhance the Model Y's functionality, including 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats for versatile storage options. Depending on the configuration, cargo space ranges from 854 litres in the five-seat arrangement to an impressive 2,158 litres when the seats are folded down. The Long Range All-Wheel Drive version provides the option for a third row, accommodating up to 7 passengers.
2. Audi Q4 e-tron
This model is driven by dual electric motors, available in different configurations depending on the variant. The base model features rear-wheel drive, while the Q4 40 and 50 e-tron variants come with all-wheel drive.
Equipped with a 77 kWh battery, the Q4 e-tron can cover up to 316 miles on a full charge, based on WLTP ratings.
Audi has incorporated fast-charging capabilities, enabling the vehicle to charge from 5% to 80% in about 38 minutes with a 100 kW DC fast charger.
In terms of safety, the Q4 e-tron boasts a variety of advanced features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, parking sensors, and collision mitigation systems. Additionally, it provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities under certain conditions, utilising Audi's Traffic Jam Pilot technology.
3. Tesla Model 3
Launched in the UK in 2019 and revamped for 2024, the Tesla Model 3 now boasts a sharper aesthetic, an upgraded interior, and an even longer range between charges.
There are four variants available: the entry-level RWD, the Long Range RWD, the Long Range AWD, and the performance AWD.
The standard rear-wheel drive Model 3 for 2024 offers a range of up to 318 miles (WLTP) on a single charge.
The Long Range RWD Model 3, launched in 2024, utilises a 75 kWh battery and single motor to achieve a range of up to 436 miles (WLTP), while the Long Range AWD version can travel up to 390 miles (WLTP) between charges.
For those seeking speed, the Tesla Model 3 Performance AWD can reach 62 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds, with a range of 318 miles according to WLTP standards.
Tesla's standard 'Autopilot' system enables the car to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane, simplifying motorway driving. Additional standard features such as Dog Mode, voice control, heated and ventilated seats and a 15" infotainment system makes the Tesla Model 3 a top competitor to the BMW i4 and Polestar 4.
4.MG 4
2024 marked 100 years of MG, with its recent successes attributed to the brand's lineup of electric vehicles produced by the Chinese automaker SAIC Motor.
The MG4 EV is MG's first fully electric hatchback, measuring similarly to the Volkswagen ID.3, Kia Niro, and Vauxhall Astra.
This compact SUV is entirely electric, featuring three specifications: the MG4 EV SE Standard Range, equipped with a 51 kWh battery offering a range of up to 218 miles; the SE Long Range, which utilises a larger 64 kWh battery for a distance of up to 281 miles; and the Trophy Extended Range, with a 77 kWh battery that provides an electric range of up to 323 miles.
Standard features include a 10.25" touchscreen, MG iSMART app connectivity, and the extensive MG Pilot suite of driver assistance systems. Opting for the Trophy Long Range model adds additional perks like a 360° Parking Camera, Satellite Navigation, Heated Front Seats, and a Mobile Phone Bluetooth Key.
The MG4 is a popular choice among our Salary Sacrifice customers, offering drivers a combination of innovation, practicality, and value.
5.BMW I4
According to SMMT data, the fifth best selling Electric Car in 2024 was the BMW i4, which also gained popularity among our Salary Sacrifice customers.
The i4 marks BMW's inaugural all-electric premium vehicle, aimed specifically at the traditional midsize market. It made its debut in 2021.
The RWD eDrive35 powered by a 70kWh battery to provide a range of 299 miles (WLTP) on a single charge. The eDrive40 variant enhances this experience with a larger battery 84kWh providing a range of 359 miles (WLTP).
For those interested in a twin-motor option, the AWD M50 variant stands out. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds, providing a range of up to 315 miles (WLTP).
6. Mercedes-Benz EQA
The EQA marks a significant achievement for Mercedes-Benz, being the brand's first fully electric compact SUV, comparable in dimensions to the Volvo XC40.
Situated below the larger EQC in Mercedes-Benz's electric lineup, the EQA 250+ is equipped with a 70.5kWh battery, offering a range of up to 346 miles (WLTP) for the Sport Executive and AMG Line Executive variants. In contrast, those opting for the AMG Line Premium or AMG Premium Plus can anticipate a range of up to 319 miles (WLTP).
Standard features include Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Brake Assist, which ensure high levels of passenger safety. Additionally, the EQA boasts Mercedes-Benz's renowned ‘MBUX’ infotainment system, a full-color head-up display, and augmented reality navigation.
Mercedes Benz EQA Leasing Deals
7. Skoda Enyaq
Skoda's Enyaq iV marks the brand's inaugural dedicated electric vehicle, utilising the Volkswagen Group's modular electrification toolkit (MEB). Comparable in size to the VW ID.5, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Cupra Tavascan, this all-electric SUV presents two battery size options along with a new range structure.
It is offered in both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive options, featuring two battery capacities (62kWh and 82kWh) and delivering power outputs of up to 306 PS. The vehicle can be charged from 5% to 80% in just 38 minutes,at a rapid charger. With a range exceeding 300 miles (WLTP).
Although SMMT has not verified whether the Skoda Enyaq SUV or Skoda Enyaq Coupe has outperformed the other, it holds the seventh position on the best-selling BEV list for 2024, with a total of 11,516 sales this year.
8. Hyundai Kona
The second-generation Kona is a popular compact crossover that is now fully electric. A major enhancement for the 2023 model year included the introduction of a 48kW battery alongside a new 65kW unit. The larger battery allows for an impressive range of up to 319 miles (WLTP) on a single charge.
Sharing its K3 platform with the Kia Niro EV, the second-generation Kona Electric is similar in size to the recently released Kia EV3, Honda E NY1, and Mazda MX-30, positioning it as a fully electric subcompact SUV.
Notable features encompass i-PEDAL driving mode, battery pre-conditioning, and the advanced Regenerative Braking System 2.0. It also provides Highway Driving Assist and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist for enhanced safety.
9.Volvo EX30
Taking ninth place on the SMMT best sellers BEV list is the Volvo EX30, the car which has the lowest life-cycle carbon emissions of any vehicle Volvo have ever produced.
The Volvo EX30 stands as the smallest fully electric vehicle in the Volvo lineup. This compact SUV is comparable in size to the Jeep Avenger and Kia Niro EV. Built on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the EX30 shares its foundation with the Smart #1.
The EX30 comes with a 51kWh battery, delivering 272hp and offering a range of up to 214 miles (WLTP). Alternatively, the Single Motor Extended Range EX30 features a larger 69kWh battery, maintaining the same power of 272 hp, while extending its range to 298 miles (WLTP) between charges. For those seeking performance, the EX30 Twin Motor Performance version boasts an impressive 428 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds.
The Volvo EX30 prioritises safety, earning a 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2024. It includes various safety features, such as an advanced driver alert system that monitors well-being. The intersection auto brake feature helps prevent accidents by automatically halting the car if another vehicle crosses its path. Additionally, a door opening alert system warns drivers of approaching cyclists to reduce incidents, enhancing overall safety for road users.
10.Volkswagen ID.4
Last, but by no means least is the Volkswagen ID.4, SMMT data shows that there were 8,927 new VW ID.4 sold in 2024.
Built on Volkswagen's MEB electric platform, the ID.4 and ID.5 (a SUV-coupe, which is also favored by electric lease customers) is offered in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, featuring a 77 kWh battery. In 2024, the ID.4 was updated to provide improved battery options, yielding a range of up to 330 miles (WLTP) on a single charge.Fast charging capabilities enable users to recharge up to 80% in approximately 30-35 minutes when using a DC fast charger.
The ID.4 comes with the latest Volkswagen ID. Cockpit system, which includes a large touchscreen, an optional head-up display, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This model is equipped with advanced driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and more.
The 2024 ID.4 is now available in several trims, including ID.4 Life, ID.4 Business, ID.4 Style, and ID.4 Max variants.