At a glance:
- EVs dominated Dealer Auction’s review of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) for April, with the majority of spots in the top 10 average retail margin chart.
- Average retail margins across all AFVs reached their highest level since November 2024.
- Ongoing uncertainty around fuel prices and global energy markets are helping to drive increased interest in EVs, making them a compelling opportunity for dealers.
- The Hyundai IONIQ 5 goes straight to the top of the retail margin chart.
- BMW leads the way in CAP Clean performance.
The latest data from Dealer Auction’s EV Performance Report (EVPR) has revealed a standout month for electric vehicles in April, with EVs storming the retail margin chart and performing well for volume and competitive pricing.
Amid the continuing conflict in Iran and ongoing uncertainty surrounding global fuel prices and energy markets, consumer interest in EVs – new and used – appears to be accelerating even more.
April marked a major milestone for the new car sector, with the number of battery electric vehicles registered in the UK surpassing two million for the first time, reaching 2,012,758 registrations following year-on-year growth of 59.1%.¹ For the used market, the average retail margin for AFVs on Dealer Auction reached its highest level (£3,620) since November 2024, highlighting a particularly strong period for the trade market.
Alongside rising popularity and stronger sales activity, the used AFV market also demonstrated impressive stability. Average sold prices remained consistent at around £15,000, while the average vehicle age held steady at approximately four years old. Mileage figures increased only slightly to 34,905 miles, reinforcing the resilience, maturity and growing confidence within the used EV market.
Dealer Auction Marketplace Director Kieran TeeBoon commented: “April’s figures show just how quickly consumer confidence in used EVs is growing. With fuel price uncertainty continuing to impact buyer behaviour, it’s clear drivers are eyeing up electric vehicles as a smart and cost-effective choice. This also presents a very compelling proposition for fleets who are looking to cut their fuel costs over the long term.”
Looking at the top-performing models of the month, EVs dominated the average retail margin chart with 60% of the share. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 claimed the top spot as the month’s strongest performer; this was the model’s first appearance since April 2025. The Audi e-tron (a new entry), Jaguar I-PACE, Volkswagen ID.3, Tesla Model Y and Model 3 also secured places in the top rankings, underlining the continued popularity of EVs and growing confidence in the market.
Hybrid BMWs also delivered an impressive performance across both gross margin and CAP Clean performance metrics, with the 3 Series and 5 Series taking the top two positions in the latter chart. Their strong results and competitive pricing reinforce the enduring appeal of premium models among both consumers and dealers alike.
Trade models that enjoyed continued success in April included the hybrid Kia Sportage, which secured a place in the top 10 for both sales volume and CAP Clean performance, further demonstrating its strong all-round market appeal. The Volvo XC90 also proved to be a standout performer, featuring across all three charts and reinforcing its enduring popularity with both dealers and consumers.
TeeBoon concluded: “The latest results highlight just how strong and diverse the used AFV market has become, particularly within the EV sector. Seeing electric models dominate the retail margin rankings reflects growing consumer confidence and increasing demand for premium used EVs.
“At the same time, the continued success of recurring charting hybrid models shows that buyers are still prioritising reliability and value. It’s a very positive sign for dealers, with strong performances being seen across multiple fuel types and vehicle segments.”
ENDS
Make sure to check out last month’s EV performance review for more insights.
Source:
1SMMT (2026). Two millionth electric car registered as market rebounds strongly from tax changes. Available at: Two millionth electric car registered as market rebounds strongly from tax changes – SMMT (Accessed: 7 May 2026).
About Dealer Auction
Dealer Auction is the UK’s leading digital remarketing platform. We give buyers and sellers more choice, better insight and greater margins. Dealer Auction is an independent company, created through a joint venture between Cox Automotive and Autotrader. For more information, visit www.dealerauction.co.uk.
Launched in May 2024, Dealer Auction’s EV Performance Review (EVPR) is a monthly feature that tracks the performance and trends of EV and hybrid vehicles on the UK’s leading digital remarketing platform.
