Ryan Fowler, acting CEO of the Leasing Broker Federation, said:

“While a modest year-to-date increase is welcome, the July figures underline how sensitive the new car market remains to policy signals and economic headwinds.

“For battery electric vehicles, steady growth is encouraging but still well below the pace needed to meet regulatory targets. Full clarity on which models qualify for the new Electric Car Grant is essential to give buyers the confidence to commit.

“Brokers are already playing a key role in helping businesses and individuals transition to low-emission vehicles. Timely, consistent policy – including incentives that work in practice – will be critical to sustaining that momentum and supporting a healthy, well-informed market.”