EVs and hybrids dominate fastest-selling used cars in May

Electric and hybrid vehicles dominated the UK’s used car market in May, accounting for nine of the 10 fastest-selling models as buyers shifted away from traditional fuel types amid high petrol prices. The MG ZS hybrid topped the list, selling in an average of 10.5 days, while five fully electric models—including the Polestar 2, Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y, and Vauxhall Mokka Electric—occupied the remaining spots in the top 10. Autotrader reported that electric vehicles spent an average of 24 days on forecourts, compared to 29 days for petrol cars and 32 days for diesel models. The data also revealed that 3-5-year-old vehicles were the strongest performers in the used market, with nine of the top 10 models falling into this age bracket. These EVs sold in an average of 21 days, with prices closely matching petrol equivalents at around £19,022. Marc Palmer, head of strategy and insights at Autotrader, attributed the trend to sky-high fuel costs, noting that buyers are increasingly prioritizing affordability and lower running costs. Among the slowest-selling used cars in May were the Toyota Yaris, Mini Hatch, and Land Rover Range Rover Sport, with the Toyota Yaris taking an average of 45 days to sell. The slowest models were primarily petrol or diesel vehicles, highlighting a clear market preference for electrified alternatives. Autotrader’s analysis suggests this shift is not temporary but reflects a broader consumer movement toward greener, more efficient transportation options.