The UK’s used car market delivered a resilient performance in June despite political and economic uncertainty.
Trade values outperformed seasonal norms and demand remained stable across much of the retail sector.
Jeremy Yea, senior valuations editor at Solera cap hpi, said: “What has become increasingly noticeable is the improving position of used electric vehicles. We’re seeing stronger retail demand, improving wholesale conversion rates and growing evidence that buyers are becoming more comfortable with EV ownership. In some areas, demand is now beginning to outpace supply, which is helping support values.
“That doesn’t mean every EV will perform equally well. The market remains highly selective and success still depends on factors such as age, range, specification and price point. However, the overall direction of travel is considerably more positive than it was six to 12 months ago.”
Solera cap hpi data shows average trade values at the benchmark three-year, 60,000-mile point fell 0.6% during June (£130).
The decline was considerably gentler than the long-term June average fall of around 1.1%.
The performance marks the third consecutive month in which used values have outperformed seasonal norms, suggesting the market has found a degree of stability after several years of volatility.
Retail demand remains, although dealers continue to report that consumers are selective, measured, and focused on value.
Sales activity matched seasonal expectations, with average days to sell up from 33 days in May to 34 days month-to-date.
Car supermarkets remain the fastest-moving operators, averaging 29 days to sell stock, followed by franchised dealers (31 days) while independent retailers continue to face a more mixed trading environment (42 days).
Battery electric vehicles were the strongest-performing fuel type in both retail and wholesale channels.
Used BEVs sold in an average of 29 days, making them the fastest-moving drivetrain in the market.
Three-year-old BEV values increased by 0.8%, the second consecutive month of positive movement and one of the strongest performances seen since late 2024. Diesel values declined 1.4% at the three-year point.
Older vehicles also faced greater pressure, reflecting increasing volumes of higher-mileage stock entering remarketing channels.
Solera cap hpi expects July trade values to broadly follow traditional seasonal patterns, although demand for desirable three-to-five-year-old vehicles is expected to provide ongoing support.
