The UK used car market rebounded in January following December’s seasonal slowdown but new data suggests underlying pressure is building in both the EV and pre-registration segments.
Rupert Pontin, head of insight and communications at Brego, said: “January delivered the bounce the market was hoping for, with improved activity levels and stronger enquiry volumes.
“However, the data also shows that pre-registration and EV supply dynamics are becoming increasingly influential.
“EV volumes are growing and demand remains present, but pricing and stock mix will be critical as we move further into 2026.
“The recent softening in average EV prices is a trend we will be watching closely, particularly if elevated pre-registration volumes continue.”
According to Brego’s latest Car Market Insight Report, total used car adverts increased by 10.5% month on month, reflecting a return to more normal trading conditions after subdued festive activity.
Bergo said pre-registered adverts increased by 24.3%, largely reflecting the December push by OEMs and dealers to meet volume and ZEV targets.
The industry finished 2025 short of the mandated 28% EV share, achieving 23.4%, and January stock levels suggest continued tactical positioning.
EV volumes also accelerated significantly. Advert volumes for electric vehicles rose by 24.8%, with EV market share increasing by 0.8 percentage points month on month. Despite the rise in supply, EVs continued to sell faster than the wider market.
At the same time, average EV prices fell by £489 (-2%), driven primarily by older and lower-priced stock entering the used market.
Average days to sale increased across the market, as expected in January following December’s slowdown, but the rise was broadly in line with seasonal norms rather than indicative of weakening demand.
