Last verified: May 2026. Sources: Zap-Map, SMMT, DriveElectric, WhatCar, AutoTrader, Autocar, manufacturer list prices.
Key takeaways
- Over 150 fully electric models are on sale in the UK in 2026 (Zap-Map).
- BEVs took a 26.2% share of new car registrations in April 2026 (SMMT).
- The Renault 5 E-Tech was the UK's best-selling EV in early 2026 (SMMT).
- The Dacia Spring is the cheapest EV at £12,240 with the Electric Car Grant applied (Zap-Map and Dacia).
- The new BMW iX3 leads on range with up to 500 miles WLTP (DriveElectric/WhatCar).
- Mercedes CLA Electric and BMW i3 are the headline 2026 newcomers.
How many electric cars are on sale in the UK in 2026?
The UK EV market has grown beyond the point where any single top-10 list tells the full story. According to Zap-Map's live model tracker, more than 150 fully electric models are currently available to buy in the UK, spanning everything from sub-£13,000 city runabouts to six-figure grand tourers.
As of April 2026, over 2 million BEVs are registered on UK roads, representing around 5.8% of the total car parc (SMMT/Zap-Map). In that same month, battery electric vehicles claimed a 26.2% share of new car registrations, a market-share milestone that reflects how rapidly mainstream adoption has accelerated. The market has roughly trebled since 2020, driven by a combination of falling battery costs, expanding choice at the affordable end, and growing public confidence in charging infrastructure.
The arrival of competitively priced models from Chinese manufacturers, including BYD, Leapmotor, and GAC Aion, has added both volume and downward pressure on pricing across all segments. Meanwhile, European and Korean incumbents have responded with refreshed platforms and improved ranges.
For a full picture of what it costs to run any of the models below, see our guide to the cost of running an electric car in the UK.
How we have grouped this list
The models below are organised by body type: small and city cars, family hatchbacks and crossovers, SUVs (compact, mid-size, and large), executive and luxury, MPVs and people carriers, and performance. Within each category, models are listed roughly in order of from-price.
All prices are 2026 list prices including the Electric Car Grant where it applies to the entry-level trim. WLTP range figures are manufacturer-claimed under official test conditions. Real-world range in UK driving conditions typically falls between 70% and 85% of the WLTP figure, depending on speed, weather, heating use, and driving style (Zap-Map/EV community consensus). We note where a range figure is claimed but has not yet been independently tested.
Small and city electric cars
This segment has transformed more rapidly than any other. Three years ago, the only affordable options were the original Renault Zoe and a handful of short-range runabouts. In 2026, buyers have eight credible choices under £28,000, led by an outstanding new generation of supermini-class EVs.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dacia Spring | ~£12,240 | ~140 miles | Cheapest new EV in the UK; ideal for urban-only use |
| Leapmotor T03 | ~£15,500 | ~155 miles | No-frills urban runabout with a competitive price |
| Fiat Grande Panda Electric | ~£21,035 | ~199 miles | Grant-eligible, practical alternative to the 500e |
| Citroen e-C3 | ~£21,990 | ~199 miles | Fun, distinctive design; strong value at the price |
| Renault 5 E-Tech | £22,995 | ~250 miles | UK Car of the Year 2026; best in class |
| MINI Cooper Electric | ~£26,500 | ~145 miles | Premium small car; short range is a limitation |
| Fiat 500e | ~£27,000 | ~149 miles | Stylish; range is short for anything beyond city use |
| Vauxhall Corsa Electric | ~£27,800 | ~222 miles | Familiar supermini package with a decent range |
| Peugeot e-208 | ~£27,830 | ~222 miles | Strong value; shares platform with Corsa Electric |
Best in class: Renault 5 E-Tech. The Renault 5 E-Tech topped UK EV registrations in April 2026 (SMMT/The EV Report) and was named UK Car of the Year 2026. It combines genuine real-world range, fast 100kW charging, and an interior that punches above its price point. The Dacia Spring is the standout budget choice at around £12,240 with Dacia's grant discount applied (Zap-Map/Dacia).
Family hatchbacks and crossovers
The mainstream family car segment is where the most competitive battles are being fought in 2026. Several models here now offer over 300 miles of WLTP range and genuine everyday usability, at prices increasingly close to equivalent petrol models before running costs are taken into account.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin | ~£26,295 | ~227 miles | Competitive spec and price; BYD's UK volume seller |
| MG4 | ~£26,995 | 218–323 miles | Outstanding value; one of the most popular EVs in this range |
| VW ID.3 | ~£30,000 | 241–360 miles | Reliable mid-size hatch; widely available on lease |
| Cupra Born | ~£30,000 | 252–361 miles | Sportier sibling of the ID.3; distinctive styling |
| Kia EV3 | £33,055 | 270–375 miles | World Car of the Year 2025; excellent all-rounder |
| Peugeot e-308 | ~£34,500 | ~248 miles | Good quality mainstream hatch; competitive interior |
| Renault Megane E-Tech | ~£35,000 | ~280 miles | Stylish and efficient; strong real-world range |
| Vauxhall Astra Electric | ~£36,500 | ~256 miles | Familiar family hatch; practical choice for existing Astra owners |
| Smart #1 | ~£36,495 | ~272 miles | Premium compact with Mercedes DNA; strong tech spec |
The Electric Car Grant applies to several models in this category, including the MG4 and Kia EV3. The Kia EV3 is notable for winning the 2025 World Car of the Year title. The MG4 remains the most popular choice for buyers seeking the best combination of range and value.
Electric SUVs: the biggest segment
SUVs now dominate the UK EV market by volume, reflecting the broader shift in new car buyer preferences. The category is usefully split into three tiers by size.
Compact electric SUVs
Compact electric SUVs sit in the £26,000–£34,000 bracket and typically offer 220–355 miles of WLTP range. This is the most competitive sub-segment in the entire EV market at present.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Avenger | ~£26,595 | ~248 miles | Qualifies for the Electric Car Grant; strong styling |
| Ford Puma Gen-E | ~£30,000 | ~240 miles | Practical and affordable; familiar Puma shape |
| Skoda Elroq | ~£31,000 | 280–355 miles | WhatCar Car of the Year 2026; outstanding all-rounder |
| Volvo EX30 | ~£33,000 | ~225 miles | Smallest Volvo EV; premium feel in a compact footprint |
The Skoda Elroq was named WhatCar Car of the Year 2026 and represents perhaps the clearest case for value in the compact SUV segment, combining genuine long-range capability with practical interior space and competitive pricing.
Mid-size electric SUVs
Mid-size electric SUVs are the volume heart of the market. Models here typically span £37,000–£56,000 and include both the UK's most popular EV overall (Tesla Model Y) and a strong set of challengers from Hyundai, Kia, VW Group, and Ford.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia EV6 | ~£37,000 | ~328 miles | 800V architecture; engaging to drive; strong real-world range |
| Skoda Enyaq | ~£36,000 | 285–370 miles | Practical and spacious; good range across all trims |
| VW ID.4 | ~£40,500 | 286–340 miles | Polished mid-size SUV; broadly competitive with Korean rivals |
| Ford Capri | ~£42,000 | ~369 miles | Coupe-SUV styling on a familiar Ford platform |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | ~£42,000 | 298–310 miles | 800V ultra-fast charging; distinctive retro styling |
| Tesla Model Y | ~£45,000 | ~387 miles (LR) | UK's most registered EV (SMMT); strong range and charging network |
| Polestar 4 | ~£56,000 | ~373 miles | Coupe-SUV with no rear window; distinctive design choice |
Large and 7-seat electric SUVs
For families needing seven seats or serious towing capacity, the large EV SUV segment has matured considerably. The BMW iX3 leads on range, while the Kia EV9 leads on practicality.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX3 | £53,250 | 395–500 miles | WhatCar premium SUV winner; segment-leading range |
| Kia EV9 | ~£65,000 | 300–354 miles | 7 seats; 2,500kg towing; the most capable family EV SUV |
| Audi Q6 e-tron | ~£60,000 | ~365 miles | Premium build; strong real-world efficiency |
| Volvo EX90 | ~£86,000 | ~320 miles | 7-seat flagship; excellent safety and material quality |
The BMW iX3 is available with up to 500 miles of WLTP range depending on trim (DriveElectric/WhatCar), making it the range leader in the UK market. The Kia EV9 leads the segment on practicality, with genuine 7-seat accommodation and a 2,500kg towing rating.
Executive and luxury electric cars
The executive and luxury segment has seen some of the most significant arrivals of 2026, with the Mercedes CLA Electric and BMW i3 bringing improved range and 800V charging to the premium saloon class. This segment now spans from around £35,000 for an entry-level Hyundai Ioniq 6 to over £160,000 for the Porsche Taycan Turbo S.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 6 | ~£35,000 | 288–338 miles | Most energy-efficient car in its class; award-winning design |
| Tesla Model 3 | ~£38,990 | 341–421 miles | Refreshed "Highland" Model 3; strong range and Supercharger access |
| Polestar 2 | ~£44,950 | 300–406 miles | Volvo-backed Scandinavian saloon; strong real-world efficiency |
| Mercedes CLA 250+ | £45,615 | ~483 miles | Headline 2026 arrival; 800V, claimed 483 miles WLTP (not yet independently tested) |
| BMW i4 | ~£50,000 | 317–367 miles | Gran Coupe body; excellent driving dynamics; M50 variant available |
| BMW i5 | ~£57,000 | ~362 miles | Full-size BMW saloon in electric form; strong motorway range |
| Mercedes EQE | ~£67,000 | ~382 miles | Quiet, refined long-distance cruiser |
| Audi e-tron GT | ~£80,000 | ~301 miles | Dramatic styling; outstanding driving experience; short-ish range |
| Porsche Taycan | ~£79,000 | 239–422 miles | The benchmark for EV driving dynamics; wide range variation by trim |
The Mercedes CLA 250+ claims 483 miles WLTP using its 800V platform, making it the standout 2026 launch in this segment on paper; however, this figure is claimed by the manufacturer and has not yet been independently verified at the time of writing. The BMW i7 tops WhatCar's executive picks for 2026 for those with a larger budget.
Electric MPVs and people carriers
The electric MPV sector is smaller than the SUV market but growing, led by the iconic VW ID. Buzz and a trio of van-derived people carriers from Stellantis brands.
| Model | From price | WLTP range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citroen e-Berlingo | ~£31,000 | ~170 miles | Practical van-derived MPV; best for short-run family use |
| Peugeot e-Rifter | ~£32,000 | ~170 miles | Shares platform with e-Berlingo; sliding doors, strong versatility |
| Vauxhall Combo Life Electric | ~£32,000 | ~170 miles | Third variant of the same Stellantis platform; similar spec |
| VW ID. Buzz | ~£55,000 | ~258 miles | Leading electric MPV (WhatCar/Auto Express); iconic design; 7-seat option |
| Kia PV5 | TBC | TBC | New for 2026; electric people-carrier from Kia (WhatCar) |
The VW ID. Buzz is the standout in this category, combining genuine 7-seat capacity in the longer wheelbase version with strong real-world range and the most recognisable design in the segment. The Citroen, Peugeot, and Vauxhall Stellantis trio are better suited to families making predominantly shorter journeys.
Electric performance cars
High-performance EVs have moved from novelty to established class in a short time. The cars below represent the most driver-focused electric options in the market, with performance figures that would have been extraordinary even from dedicated sports cars a decade ago.
| Model | From price | 0-62 mph | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 Performance | ~£52,990 | 3.1 seconds | Quick, practical saloon; strong Supercharger access |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 N | ~£65,000 | 3.4 seconds | 641hp; 2024 World Performance Car of the Year (WCOTY); genuine driver's car |
| BMW i4 M50 | ~£71,000 | 3.7 seconds | M Division dynamics in a family-friendly Gran Coupe package |
| Porsche Taycan Turbo S | ~£165,000 | Under 3 seconds | Ultimate EV performance; benchmark for tactile engagement (Porsche UK) |
New electric cars launching in the UK in 2026
Beyond the models already on sale, several significant launches are confirmed or expected for 2026. These are the ones to watch.
| Model | Expected from | WLTP range | Key details |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW i3 | 2026 | Up to 391 miles | Three battery options (50/58/79 kWh); not to be confused with the discontinued original i3 (DriveElectric) |
| Mercedes CLA Electric | 2026 | Up to 483 miles (claimed) | 800V architecture; claimed figure not yet independently tested (DriveElectric) |
| Kia EV2 | 2026 | ~281 miles | Sub-£25,000 target price; aimed directly at Renault 5 and Citroen e-C3 (DriveElectric) |
| GAC Aion V | 2026 | Up to 317 miles | From around £35,000; Chinese brand making its UK debut (DriveElectric) |
The Kia EV2 is the most significant arrival for mainstream buyers, with a sub-£25,000 target price that would make it the most affordable EV from a mainstream Korean brand. The Mercedes CLA Electric's claimed 483-mile WLTP range will require independent verification before it can be confirmed as a category leader.
Cheapest electric cars in the UK in 2026
Prices include the Electric Car Grant where it applies to the entry-level trim. The grant currently offers up to £3,750 off eligible zero-emission cars under £35,000. Verify current grant eligibility on GOV.UK, as both the grant value and eligible model list can change.
| Model | Price with grant |
|---|---|
| Dacia Spring | ~£12,240 |
| Leapmotor T03 | ~£15,500 |
| Fiat Grande Panda Electric | ~£17,285 |
| Citroen e-C3 | ~£18,240 |
| Renault 5 E-Tech (entry) | ~£19,245 |
The Dacia Spring at around £12,240 broke through what had previously been the £13,000 floor for new electric cars in the UK, making full BEV ownership accessible to a significantly broader buyer base (Zap-Map/Dacia). It is worth noting that monthly leasing deals on these models can in some cases undercut even the cheapest cash purchase price per month; see our guide to monthly leasing offers for current pricing.
Longest-range electric cars in the UK in 2026
All WLTP figures below are manufacturer-claimed. Real-world range in typical UK conditions (mixed motorway and A-road, moderate speeds, ambient temperatures) generally falls between 70% and 85% of these figures.
| Model | WLTP range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BMW iX3 50 xDrive | Up to 500 miles | Independently confirmed (DriveElectric/WhatCar) |
| Mercedes CLA 250+ | Up to 483 miles | Claimed; not yet independently tested |
| Porsche Taycan RWD Performance Battery Plus | Up to 422 miles | Confirmed |
| Tesla Model 3 Long Range | Up to 421 miles | Confirmed |
| Polestar 3 LR Single Motor | Up to 438 miles | Confirmed |
For a deeper look at the range leaders across all body types and price points, see our dedicated guide to the longest-range electric cars in the UK.
Best-selling electric cars in the UK right now
Sales data tells a slightly different story from model quality rankings. The UK's best-selling EVs by registration volume reflect a combination of competitive pricing, strong brand recognition, and effective fleet and company-car uptake.
The Renault 5 E-Tech topped UK EV registrations in April 2026, driven by strong retail and fleet demand for its combination of range, price, and design appeal (SMMT/The EV Report). Renault Group's broader EV sales were up 71% year-on-year in January 2026 according to SMMT data, reflecting the combined impact of the Renault 5 and Renault Megane E-Tech.
The UK registered its two-millionth BEV in 2026, a milestone that reflects how quickly electrification has moved from niche to mainstream (SMMT). Tesla Model Y and Model 3 remain consistent top-10 entrants, underpinned by the strength of Tesla's Supercharger network and competitive long-range pricing. MG4 continues to feature heavily in volume charts, driven by its standout value proposition in the family hatch segment.
How to choose the right electric car for you
With over 150 models to choose from, the decision can feel overwhelming. In practice, most buyers can narrow their shortlist quickly by working through five questions.
What real-world range do you need? Be honest about your longest regular journey, not your occasional long trip. WLTP figures are typically achievable only under near-ideal conditions; budget for 70–85% of the manufacturer's claimed figure in real UK driving (Zap-Map). For most UK drivers covering under 150 miles per day, almost every car on this list provides ample range for daily use.
Do you have off-street parking for home charging? Home charging is the key to low running costs. If you have a driveway or garage, a 7kW wallbox unlocks dedicated EV tariffs and overnight convenience. If you do not, you will be relying more on public charging, which is more expensive and requires more planning. This does not make EV ownership impossible, but it does change the economics.
Are you buying outright or leasing? Personal and business leases can put a brand-new EV on your driveway from under £200 a month and sidestep the risk of depreciation. See our guide to electric car leasing in the UK for current deals and guidance on what to look for in a lease contract.
What body type fits your life? City drivers with occasional motorway runs are well served by the small car and family hatch categories. Families needing seven seats or regular load-carrying should look at the large SUV and MPV categories. Those covering high motorway mileage will benefit most from the long-range executive cars.
Do you have towing or load requirements? Towing capacity varies widely among EVs. The Kia EV9 leads with a 2,500kg braked trailer rating, while many compact EVs are not approved for towing at all. Always check the manufacturer's towing specification before purchasing if you need to tow a caravan, boat, or trailer.
Compare electric car leasing deals
Leasing can put a brand-new EV on your driveway for significantly less than buying outright, with no depreciation risk and fixed monthly costs. See current lease rates across all body types and budget ranges.
Compare leasing deals →Frequently asked questions
- How many electric cars are on sale in the UK?
- Over 150 fully electric models are available in 2026 (Zap-Map). The market has roughly trebled since 2020, with new launches from Chinese manufacturers joining the established European and Korean makers.
- What is the cheapest electric car in the UK?
- The Dacia Spring at around £12,240 including Dacia's Electric Car Grant discount, making it the first electric car to break the £13,000 barrier in the UK (Zap-Map/Dacia). The Leapmotor T03 is the next cheapest at around £15,500.
- Which electric car has the longest range in the UK?
- The new BMW iX3, with up to 500 miles WLTP depending on trim (DriveElectric/WhatCar). The Mercedes CLA Electric follows with a claimed 483 miles WLTP, though this has not yet been independently tested.
- What is the best-selling electric car in the UK?
- The Renault 5 E-Tech topped UK EV registrations in April 2026 (SMMT). Tesla Model Y and Model 3 remain consistent top-10 entries by registrations.
- Is it still worth buying an electric car in the UK?
- Yes for most drivers with home-charging access. Running costs sit well below petrol equivalents, the model choice is now over 150 strong (Zap-Map), and the Electric Car Grant offers up to £3,750 off eligible models. For those without a driveway, leasing can be a more flexible route — see our guide to electric car leasing in the UK.