UK Vehicle Makers Raise On-Site Renewable Output by More Than One-Third

UK vehicle makers increased on-site renewable-energy generation by more than one-third in the 12 months before the report, GB News reported. British manufacturing plants produced a record 80.4 GWh of renewable power, enough to supply 43,000 homes and cut 14,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders analysis covers makers of 99.7 per cent of all UK-built cars and commercial vehicles plus the wider supply chain.

More than one-third of the industry's electricity came from green sources on the grid in 2025. Manufacturers offered more than 160 zero-emission vehicle models. In 2025, 470,000 electric vehicles were registered in the UK.

Diesel sales fell 24.4 per cent and petrol sales dropped 4 per cent over the same period. Twenty-seven zero-emission cars and vans are already in UK production or have been announced.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said manufacturers had invested significant amounts to remain competitive through innovation and decarbonisation. Hawes added that manufacturers need faster grid connections, more low-carbon power and internationally competitive energy costs.

The SMMT stated that planning rules, high upfront costs and grid reinforcements that can take up to 15 years are holding back further progress.

UK industrial electricity prices stand 115 per cent above the European average. Alan Johnson, a senior Nissan executive, told MPs in 2025 that the Sunderland plant pays more for electricity than any other Nissan facility worldwide.