The Rise of EVs vs ICE and Hybrids: What Dealers Should Know
Date: Wed 17th December 2025 | Author: Kate Guckian
The automotive market is shifting rapidly. Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining momentum, hybrids are holding their ground, and petrol and diesel cars remain relevant in many regions. Understanding these patterns helps dealers plan their inventory, manage servicing, and adapt to the changing regulations.
EVs Gaining Ground, But ICE & Hybrids Aren’t Dead Yet
Electrification of vehicle stock is accelerating in the UK, but the shift hasn’t happened across the board yet.
The market for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is growing fast, yet petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles still make up a significant share of the market.
This 19.6% increase led to the UK becoming the largest BEV market in Europe entering 2025.
Despite this increase, in April 2025 petrol cars still made up 48.8% of new car registrations, and diesel 5.3%, showing that internal combustion vehicles remain a major part of the UK market.
This mixed-fleet reality means dealers must cater to a diverse customer base and maintain flexible strategies.
UK 2030 ICE Ban is Under Pressure
The UK government’s planned 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars is now under political scrutiny. Across Europe, the EU is reportedly considering pushing its ban back to 2040, putting pressure on the UK Labour government to rethink its timeline.
These debates impact buyer confidence, supply planning, and dealer strategy, making it essential to monitor policy closely.
What This Means for Dealers
As the mix of EVs, hybrids, and traditional engines continues to shift, dealers are having to think carefully about how they manage stock, servicing, and customer expectations. This includes:
Balanced Stock & Supply: A mix of EV, hybrid, and ICE vehicles is proving useful for many dealers, though some still benefit from focusing on a smaller selection of stock that suits their customers best.
Servicing & Aftersales: EVs have fewer moving parts, reducing routine maintenance, but when service is required, it’s often specialized, such as battery diagnostics and work on high-voltage systems. Workshops must be equipped with trained technicians, correct tools, and charging access.
MOT & Parts Planning: EVs skip emissions tests but require checks for tyres, suspension, and brakes. Hybrids need both ICE and EV components, adding stock intricacy. Dealers should gradually adjust parts inventories and train staff to manage EV-specific components safely.
Sales Expertise: Teams must be confident discussing all different vehicle types. Buyers need guidance on EV charging, hybrid efficiency and ICE ownership. Dealers that educate rather than push sales will retain customers longer and build loyalty.
Adapting to a Hybrid World
Electrification of vehicle stock is real, but the UK market remains mixed. Hybrids and ICE vehicles will be relevant for years, and political uncertainty around the 2030 ban adds complexity to the market.
Dealers who balance stock, adapt their service offerings, and provide informed customer guidance will thrive, whether the future is fully electric, hybrid, or a blend of all three.
