Future Car Market Overview – New Cars May 2025

Welcome to the latest version of our overview. Our aim is to bring you the best content and layout, making it easy to identify new and revised information. As always, any customer feedback would be appreciated: e-mail [email protected] The content is structured as follows: 1. Forecast Changes2. Market Conditions3. Historic Forecast Accuracy4. Forecast Methodology & Products5. Sector Reforecast Schedule 2025/26 CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Future Car Market Overview – Used Cars May 2025

Welcome to the latest version of our overview. Our aim is to bring you the best content and layout, making it easy to identify new and revised information. As always, any customer feedback would be appreciated: e-mail [email protected] The content is structured as follows: 1. Forecast Changes2. Market Conditions3. Historic Forecast Accuracy4. Forecast Methodology & Products5. Sector Reforecast Schedule 2025/26 CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Future Car Market Overview – SMR May 2025

Welcome to our latest overview of Service Maintenance and Repair (SMR) Budgets, previously known as the ‘gold book SMR editorial’. This is aimed at our Fleet sector customers, who may use the Budgets when setting their lease rates. Any customer suggestions for improvement would be appreciated: please e-mail [email protected] Following our acquisition of Derwent Management Services in 2014, cap-hpi Ludlow (Derwent) data has been used to populate our SMR budget forecast product since October 2014, but there have been no technical changes to any of our data files or services. CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Car Market Overview – May 2025

This monthly summary provides an update on the status of the UK new and used car markets. It includes data on new car registrations up to the end of March 2025 and the latest developments in the used car market as of the date of this report. Please note that all information is accurate as of April 24, 2025. New car sales In March 2025, the new car market experienced significant growth, with registrations reaching 357,103 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). This represents a 12.4% increase, adding 39,317 more cars than March 2024. This surge builds on the previous year’s 10.4% rise, making March 2025 the most successful ‘new plate’ month since 2019. CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Future Light Commercial Vehicle Overview – New Commercials May 2025

This is the cap guide to future residual values for light commercial vehicles. Individual forecasts are provided in pounds and percentage of list price for periods of twelve to sixty months with mileage calculations up to 200,000. CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Future Light Commercial Vehicle Overview – Used Commercials May 2025

This is the cap guide to future residual values for used light commercial vehicles. Individual forecasts are provided in pounds for periods from twelve months to four years. CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Commercial Overview – May 2025

For what it’s worth March – New LCV Registrations The downward trend in new LCV registrations seems set to continue according to the latest figures from the SMMT. At 51,221, new registrations were down by around 3.2% (1,695) compared to March 2024. In the first quarter of this year, registrations were down by 10,065 compared to the same period last year. CLICK HERE to read the full article.
Vertu Motors signs new data partnership to advance digital strategy.

One of UKs largest motor retailers, enters new partnership with Solera cap hpi. London, 26 April, 2025 – Solera, the global leader in vehicle lifecycle management, today announces that Vertu Motors plc, one of the UK’s largest motor retailers, has entered a new data partnership to deepen digital integration across its dealership network. The agreement will see Solera cap hpi provide its HPI Check provenance data under a shared risk commercial model, meaning Vertu has the ability to use all data points required from cap hpi to assist in the retailing of vehicles. This flexible structure is intended to support the Group’s operational efficiency and bolster its omnichannel retail strategy, which aims to merge physical showrooms with digital platforms. Alongside provenance checks, Solera cap hpi will supply current and forecast vehicle valuations, allowing Vertu to refine its smart pricing strategies and to further inform decision-making across over 200 dealerships. The Group, which represents more than 30 world-leading manufacturers, continues to invest in digitalisation to enhance customer experience and drive profitability. David Crane, Chief Operations Officer at Vertu Motors plc, said: “The new agreement builds on our long-standing relationship with Solera cap hpi. It supports the company’s commitment to data-led decision-making in a fast paced market, with the ability to update vehicle pricing from a central source, bringing even more efficiencies into Group. “We use data-driven decision-making across our organisation to generate enhanced returns and deliver a better customer experience. Data drives our omnichannel development, bringing ‘bricks and clicks’ together.” The announcement follows Vertu’s recent £3.6 million investment to grow its footprint in the South West, including the opening of two Volvo dealerships in Yeovil and Plymouth. Solera cap hpi’s Head of Strategic Retail, Wendy Swaine, said the company is continually investing in its data infrastructure to help retailers remain competitive in a fast-evolving market. “New investment in our data will see the HPI Check continue to lead the industry and provide our retailers and wider customers with the information they need to accurately buy and sell vehicles,” she said. Solera cap hpi supports UK dealerships with real-time vehicle valuations and provenance data. In 2024, the company carried out over 143.8 million valuations and 29.2 million HPI Checks through its digital platforms. The firm is also pushing to raise ethical data standards in the UK automotive market. It sources data through commercial and industry partnerships to meet robust corporate governance requirements and recently introduced enhancements to better track electric vehicle specifications and values. The partnership underscores the increasing value of real-time data in automotive retail as dealers seek to manage risk, improve margins and meet changing customer expectations across physical and digital channels. Unlock the Power of Rich Automotive Data Ready to make smarter, faster decisions across your dealership network? Discover how cap hpi’s data solutions can drive efficiency and profitability in your business. Get in touch with our team
Growth in EV choice for UK drivers

What’s the right EV for you? The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) market is growing faster than ever, and new Solera cap hpi data shows just how much more choice UK drivers now have when switching to electric. Over the past year, the volume of battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants has surged by 66%. If you’ve been considering choosing an electric car, there’s no shortage of options to suit your preferences, budget, and needs. In fact, over the past four years, the number of BEV brands in the UK has increased by 95%, and there’s no sign of slowing down. What’s even more exciting is that we’re seeing a considerable growth in the number of BEV models hitting the market. From 2020 to 2024, the number of BEV models grew by an astounding 246%, and in the last 12 months alone, it’s gone up by 39%. This increase in available models gives consumers an incredible range of choices, whether looking for something compact for city driving or a larger model for longer trips. An emerging trend is the rise of smaller BEV models. Traditionally, the electric car market has been dominated by larger models, but now we’re seeing a shift toward superminis and city cars. These vehicles are more affordable and practical for everyday use, especially in urban areas. This change is helping create a more balanced profile for the new and used BEV market, meaning there are more options at different price points, and it’s not just the premium, high-end models available. Matt Freeman, managing consultant at Solera cap hpi consulting, notes that one of the key drivers behind this growth is the increasing variety of dependable EV options available. As of January, around 132 new EV models were available in the UK, accounting for a third of all new cars on the market. This expansion gives drivers more choices than ever before, which is important because every consumer has different priorities regarding their next vehicle. There’s now a much broader selection, whether it’s range, performance, or price. Manufacturers have also been offering attractive discounts and incentives to encourage EV sales. This makes EVs even more appealing, especially as some used models are now priced similarly to or even lower than their petrol counterparts. That’s a game-changer for many people considering an electric car for the first time. Plus, with improvements in range, affordability, and charging infrastructure, EVs are becoming even more practical for daily use, making them an even more viable option. Looking ahead, the EV market is poised for more exciting developments. The UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires that 28% of new car sales be zero-emission vehicles by 2025, encourages manufacturers to ramp up their EV offerings. As a result, there will be a greater variety of EVs on the market in the coming years. This includes everything from SUVs and seven-seaters to compact city cars and models from manufacturers new to the electric car scene. There’s no shortage of exciting new EVs on the horizon either. In 2025, we expect some truly innovative releases, including the Renault 5 Turbo 3 E, Range Rover EV, BMW iX3 2025, Audi A6 e-tron, and a new electric Jaguar. These vehicles will bring even more options to the market and increase the choices available to UK drivers. The entrance of new players, such as Chinese manufacturers like BYD and Leapmotor, will only add to the variety of models available, giving consumers even more choices. The diversity of options from different manufacturers and varying price points means that switching to electric is becoming a more attractive and accessible option for a wider range of motorists. If you’ve been considering switching to an electric car, the UK market is becoming a much more exciting and accessible place to do so. With more choices, better prices, and improving infrastructure, there’s never been a better time to make the switch and enjoy the benefits of driving electric. Whether you’re looking for a small city car or a larger family vehicle, the future of electric driving looks very promising, and full of exciting possibilities.
Preparing your car for sale: what matters most to potential buyers?

Selling a used car can be just as tricky as buying one, and ensuring you present the car in its best possible condition can help to secure the best price. How you prepare the car plays a crucial role in the process, as first impressions are vital. Buyers will carefully inspect every detail, from the exterior paint to the interior, looking for any flaws they can use to negotiate a lower price. A well-maintained vehicle is more appealing and can command a higher price. Investing time in cleaning and detailing your car or opting for a professional valet service can significantly boost its value and appeal to buyers. This service typically costs between £30 and £100. To get the best price for a car when selling it, sellers need to focus on presenting the vehicle in the best possible light. The first step is to ensure that the car is clean, both inside and out. A thorough wash, polish, and a careful cleaning of the interior can make a significant difference. Removing any dirt, dust, or stains from the seats and carpets will create a more appealing environment for potential buyers. Additionally, it’s important to address any visible imperfections such as small dents, scratches, or scuffs. Touching up chips to the paintwork or having minor dents repaired can make the car look well-maintained and more attractive, potentially increasing its value. Having all the necessary paperwork and correct documentation ready is crucial. It includes the V5C registration document, MOT certificates, and service history. These documents prove ownership and the car’s history, instilling confidence in potential buyers. One of the main concerns for buyers is the car’s mileage and history. Let buyers verify the mileage with previous service and MOT records. An HPI check can provide additional peace of mind by verifying mileage and revealing any accident history or outstanding finances. Offering this information upfront can help maintain your asking price during negotiations. An HPI check is the longest-established and most trusted way to get peace of mind with a car history check. It verifies the VIN number, provides a guide valuation and estimated fuel costs, and includes an MOT history check. HPI first launched its vehicle history check in 1938, helping identify any discrepancies or red flags in a car’s history. Some buyers may bring a mechanic to conduct a thorough inspection and look for signs of poor repairs, assess the engine, infotainment system, safety features, and tyres. Ensure any previous repairs have been done to a high standard to avoid losing the sale or facing price reductions. Buyers will likely want to test all the car’s features, so ensure everything is in good working order. Highlighting extras like a panoramic roof or heated seats can also enhance the car’s appeal. While part-exchanging might seem easier, selling privately often leads to a better financial outcome. By presenting your car in the best possible light and being ready for buyer questions, you can simplify the process and secure a higher sale price. Transparency is crucial; be honest about the car’s condition and history to build trust with potential buyers. Addressing minor issues before sale can prevent buyers from using them as bargaining chips. Selling a used car privately doesn’t have to be daunting. With proper preparation, attention to detail, and an understanding of what buyers are looking for, you can turn this process into a rewarding experience. The current market favours sellers, so take advantage of this opportunity to get the best value for your vehicle. Ensure items like parcel shelves, spare wheels, inflation kits, wheel braces/jacks, book packs, and spare keys are not missing. These items often contribute to the car’s overall appeal and functionality, and their absence can create the impression that the vehicle has been neglected or poorly maintained. Potential buyers may view missing items as a sign of the car being incomplete, which can reduce their confidence in the purchase. In some cases, missing items can affect the car’s usability, especially if essential tools like the locking wheel nut, spare wheel or jack are not available. Buyers may factor in the cost of replacing these items when negotiating the price, potentially lowering the offer. Certain items, such as the book pack and spare keys, can also add to the car’s perceived value, as they demonstrate that the vehicle has been well cared for and properly maintained. Ultimately, missing items can negatively affect the sale process by causing buyers to hesitate, negotiate lower prices, or even decide against the purchase altogether. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the sale process confidently and achieve a satisfactory outcome for both you and the buyer. Visit https://hpicheck.com/ for more information.