2024 saw a small uplift in new cars sales, with a total of 1.95 million vehicles registered.
Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows the uplift was delivered entirely by the fleet and business channels.
New car registrations to fleet and business were up more than 11% year-on-year to 1,206,502 units – equating to almost 62% of the market. Set against a decline in retail sales, the overall growth in registrations was 2.6%
The Tesla Model Y has emerged as a clear favourite among company car drivers, for the third consecutive year, achieving the largest number of registrations in the true fleet market during 2024. The Model Y was also the fifth best-selling car overall, and the UK's most popular electric vehicle (EV).
Best selling company cars in 2024:
The Model Y has been a resounding success for Tesla. It's been the best-selling company car for three years in a row and it doesn't hold the title by an insignificant margin. Model Y sales, in the true fleet market, were almost double those of the second-placed Kia Sportage. The car's popularity was recognised by Parkers, which named it Company Car of the Year 2024. A new version of the Model Y will launch in March.
The Sportage is becoming a fleet stalwart with its efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, significantly boosting its appeal. It moves up from third place last year. The Sportage PHEV sits in the 8% benefit-in-kind tax band, making it both affordable and efficient.
The Golf has always been a key player in the fleet market and in 2024 it was no different. Offered with a broad line-up of hatchback and estates with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, the Golf range has something to suit almost all tastes. Following its facelift in 2024, a new eHybrid engine that sits in the 5% BiK band was introduced. There's no electric model, but that hasn't deterred company car drivers from choosing it.
The all-new Tiguan continues to draw in company car drivers at the same rate as its predecessor. Fleet sales of the model continue to grow, especially now a long-range eHybrid model is available with a 5% BiK rate.
Following its Highland update at the end of 2023, fleet sales of the Tesla Model 3 have surged. While it can't match the volumes of its larger sibling, the Model Y, there is still a lot of demand for this mid-size car. The new Long Range RWD version, launched in late 2024, offers an impressive 436-mile range.
While the Qashqai may seem more at home in the retail market, that hasn't stopped it ranking among the 10 best-selling cars in true fleet. The mid-size crossover is great value, practical and easy to live with. There's no hybrid or electric powertrain option but Nissan's E-Power technology helps to keep CO2 emissions down.
The A3 is another model that has climbed the table this year. Following a facelift, the A3 has grown its popularity among company car drivers. A key model is the 40 TFSIe, which now features a new, larger battery and attracts a 5% BiK rate.
As far as company cars go, the i4 ticks pretty much all the boxes. It's great to drive, has a long range and is available at an affordable price. As such, it's won numerous Fleet News Awards and company car drivers have been choosing it in droves.
On a balance of price and range, the MG 4 is an unbeatable proposition and it sets a benchmark for legacy manufacturers. With short lead times and tonnes of positive driver feedback, it's no surprise that the model is among the best-selling company cars.
As a sister car to the Kia Sportage, it's not surprising that the Tucson has also been a top seller in the fleet market. Offering a similar package of practicality, technology and with a selection of hybrid and plug-in hybrid engines, there's a lot to like about this mid-size SUV.
2024's top-selling fleet brands:
1- Volkswagen
2- BMW
3- Audi
4- Tesla
5- Kia
6- Nissan
7- Mercedes
8- Skoda
9- Toyota
10- Hyundai
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