POLITICIANS and other bodies are urging drivers to switch to pure-electric vehicles (EVs) but petrol power remains the favourite with new car buyers.

Last month’s introduction of the 24 plate attracted 317,786 new registrations, with petrol models accounting for 177,019 units.

The market share for petrol models, including mild hybrids, rose 9.2 per cent compared with last March, diesels dropped 7.2 per cent (registering 23,312 units), and EVs were one per cent down to 15.2 per cent (registering 48,388 units).

A plea for incentives to encourage private buyers to make the transition from fossil fuels to electricity was repeated by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Chief executive Mike Hawes said: “Market growth continues, fuelled by fleets investing after two years of constrained supply. A sluggish private market and shrinking EV market share, however, show the challenge ahead.

“Manufacturers are providing compelling offers, but they can’t single-handedly fund the transition indefinitely. Government support for private consumers – not just business and fleets – would send a positive message and deliver a faster, fairer transition on on time and on target.”

UK top 10 in March: 1, Nissan Qashqai, 8,931; 2, Ford Puma, 8,318; 3, Kia Sportage, 7,445; 4, Nissan Juke, 7,345; 5, Audi A3, 6,010; 6, Vauxhall Corsa, 5,952; 7, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, 5,892; 8, Volkswagen Golf, 5,631; 9, Tesla Model Y, 5,602; 10, MG HS, 5,460.

Scottish top 10 in March: 1, Corsa, 1,526; 2, BMW 1 Series, 913; 3, Peugeot 208, 764; 4, Qashqai, 718; 5, Vauxhall Mokka, 704; 6, Sportage, 678; 7, Puma, 642; 8, MG ZS, 533; 9, Peugeot 2008, 506; 10, Juke, 504.

Figures from SMMT.