The Hyundai Ioniq 5 ranks as the UK’s most stolen electric vehicle, according to new research from Solera Cap HPI.
Data shows 1,465 EVs were stolen from the 463,670 registered in the UK during 2024 – representing 0.3% of all electric vehicles on the road.
The Ioniq 5 topped the theft list with 223 vehicles stolen from 15,964 on UK roads (1.3%). Kia’s Niro EV followed in second place with 177 thefts out of 18,674 (0.95%), while the Kia EV6 ranked third with 169 vehicles taken from 15,670 registered (1%).
Kia emerged as the most targeted EV brand with 469 total thefts. Hyundai placed second with 345 stolen vehicles, while BMW ranked third with 107.
The research found that 109 EVs are flagged as stolen daily across the UK.
Greater London reported the highest concentration of thefts, with 974 EVs stolen from 58,382 registered in the city (1.66%).
Outside London, the West Midlands recorded 137 EV thefts, followed by the East of England (96), Yorkshire and the Humber (58), the South East (54), the North West (51), and the East Midlands (32).
Stacey Ward, Senior Data Director at Solera Cap HPI, warned against complacency despite the relatively low national theft figures.
“By generating stolen EV data for the whole of the UK, Solera cap hpi provides motorists with the full picture of the volumes and models targeted by thieves, and we help drivers keep their eyes wide open about the true history of a vehicle,” she said.
Ward emphasized that quality data comes from partnerships across the automotive industry, ensuring access to comprehensive information.
“As EVs become more prevalent on UK roads, drivers must take the necessary measures to secure their vehicles,” she added. “Our analysis shows that models from manufacturers like Kia and Hyundai are being targeted.”
