LONDON, June 5 (Xinhua) -- British new car market fell in May partly due to Brexit uncertainty, according to the figures released Wednesday by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Data showed that 183,724 new cars were registered across the UK in May, with 4.6 percent dropping from the same period last year.

SMMT survey noted that decreases occurred across all sales types in May, with registrations by private consumers, fleets and business buyers falling by 5.0 percent, 3.0 percent and 29.0 percent respectively.

However, petrol electric hybrids cars rose 34.6 percent year-on-year to 7,785 units. Battery electric cars recorded a notable rise of 81.1 percent, despite only representing 1.1 percent of the overall market.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said "Confusing policy messages and changes to incentives continue to affect consumer and business confidence, causing drivers to keep hold of their older, more polluting vehicles for longer."

"New cars are safer, cleaner and more advanced than ever and, with sophisticated safety, efficiency and comfort features as well as a host of attractive deals on offer, there has never been a better time to invest in a new car," Hawes said. Enditem

LONDON, June 5 (Xinhua) -- British new car market fell in May partly due to Brexit uncertainty, according to the figures released Wednesday by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Data showed that 183,724 new cars were registered across the UK in May, with 4.6 percent dropping from the same period last year.

SMMT survey noted that decreases occurred across all sales types in May, with registrations by private consumers, fleets and business buyers falling by 5.0 percent, 3.0 percent and 29.0 percent respectively.

However, petrol electric hybrids cars rose 34.6 percent year-on-year to 7,785 units. Battery electric cars recorded a notable rise of 81.1 percent, despite only representing 1.1 percent of the overall market.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said "Confusing policy messages and changes to incentives continue to affect consumer and business confidence, causing drivers to keep hold of their older, more polluting vehicles for longer."

"New cars are safer, cleaner and more advanced than ever and, with sophisticated safety, efficiency and comfort features as well as a host of attractive deals on offer, there has never been a better time to invest in a new car," Hawes said.