Car Statistics & Trends for 2025

 

New technologies, environmental standards, and customer preferences mean that cars and the future of transportation are evolving at a rapid rate – 2025 is becoming a year of major shifts in car statistics and trends, including electric vehicle (EV) purchases, self-driving tech, car ownership models, sustainability efforts, and more. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the key statistics and trends for cars in 2025. Our facts will provide great insights into what buyers, manufacturers, and industry professionals can expect to see across the rest of the year. 

 

Key Car Statistics In 2025

           
  • Over 50% of all vehicle models marketed by car manufacturers will be EVs by 2030.
       
  • The Ford Puma was the best-selling car in the UK in 2024 and is expected to remain popular in 2025. Other best-sellers include the Kia Sportage, Nissan Qashqai, and Volkswagen Golf.
 
  • The best-selling car in the world in 2024 was the Toyota Corolla, with the Tesla Model Y coming a close second.
 
  • The Mini is the most reliable car in 2025, with a reliability rating of 98.3%. 
 
  • The Mercedes E-Class, Skoda Superb, and Audi Q6 e-tron are the safest cars in 2025 after receiving high scores on rigorous crash tests.
 

Why Are Electric Car Sales Increasing?

Electric vehicles are a crucial technology for reducing carbon emissions in road transport, which contributes to about one-sixth of global emissions. Strong, ambitious policies are essential for driving growth in EV markets worldwide. Also, with lower operating costs and charging infrastructure, EVs are becoming more attractive to consumers.

Here are some of the ways the EV landscape is evolving:

     
  • Many countries around the world are offering tax breaks, grants, and government subsidies to accommodate users switching to non-emission vehicles. 
     

What Does This Mean For The Future of EVs?

Car manufacturers are accelerating EV production to keep up with government benchmarks because petrol and diesel cars are being phased out. This means greater model variety, better technology, and lower costs for consumers. The costs are projected to decrease as manufacturers learn how to build them more efficiently. 

According to a BVRLA press release in 2024, electric car prices are expected to fall by 28% between 2024 and 2030. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that used EV sales increased by 57% in Q3 2024. The increase in used EV car sales and decrease in prices have helped to boost the second-hand market and make EVs affordable for more people. 

This accessibility means we’ll be seeing many more EVs on the roads in the coming years. The UK now has the third-largest EV market in the world, overtaking both France and Germany to become the largest in Europe. However, China is still in the lead due to its advanced technology and more affordable prices.

Some of the EV improvements on the horizon for the UK and the rest of the world include:

  • Ultra-fast, wireless, and bidirectional charging
  • Regenerative braking 
  • Improved fuel efficiency
  • Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)

These technological breakthroughs will transform the future of EVs by eliminating range anxiety during long-distance travel, improving energy management, and helping to create less traffic and safer, less polluted roads.

 

How Are Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) Changing?

The development of self-driving cars is also a rising 2025 trend. Major advancements in AI and sensor technology equal improved safety and efficiency. 

   
  • Many new 2025 models will feature Level 3 automation – this allows hands-free driving in controlled environments. 
     

Are Self-Driving Cars Safe In 2025?

While self-driving cars have the potential to be very safe, there are still currently some risks associated with them. A study from the University of Central Florida found that AVs were involved in fewer accidents than human-driven cars, apart from during low-light conditions (at dusk or dawn) where they were five times more likely to be involved in an accident than a human-driven vehicle. Also, while turning, AVs were almost two times more likely to have an accident. 

During routine driving tasks, like maintaining lanes and adjusting to traffic flows, self-driving cars are reportedly much safer. However, an Institution of Mechanical Engineers survey found that 70% of respondents said they would feel uncomfortable in an AV with no human control. As AV technology advances by improving sensor integration, it will become more reliable in diverse conditions and better at anticipating dangers. 

At Level 3 autonomy in 2025, the car can handle driving tasks under specific conditions with the driver able to intervene if necessary. But as we inch towards Level 5 (full autonomy) in the future, human intervention and driving controls will no longer be required. 

 

How Much Is The Car Rental Market Growing?

Standard car ownership is declining as subscription models and short- and long-term leasing are becoming more popular. The UK car rental market is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% by 2029. 

Car manufacturers are adapting to this growing trend by offering a range of convenient and flexible rental options. For example, mobile apps and contactless pick-up options are on the rise, allowing customers to choose, book, and pay for vehicles straight from their smartphones. 

More advanced telematics and fleet management software is expected to further increase growth. The number of telematic systems among rental companies is expected to increase at a steady rate in the next few years. These systems monitor rental vehicles and drivers, improving safety, vehicle optimisation, and customer loyalty. 

Also, EVs are being offered by rental companies more often in 2025 as a response to the growing demand for sustainable transport options. 

 

Final Thoughts

Cars are set for major transformations in the coming years. In 2025, a variety of new trends and innovations are taking hold, from increases in EV sales to advanced tech features. Many of these changes reflect a global increase in technological advancements and sustainability efforts. 

If you’re ready to join the EV revolution or swap to a more modern vehicle, it’s probably time to look at selling your old car. Get a free online car valuation from ValueMyCar today and see how much you can put towards your new vehicle. 

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