Electric car models from Toyota, Hyundai, BMW and Kia were found to be among the most stolen in the UK for the first half of 2026.
The data was analysed by temporary car insurance provider Tempcover based on a Freedom of Information request sent to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).
The number of fully electric vehicles reported stolen rose sharply in the first half of 2026, climbing from 1,111 to 1,646 compared with the same period last year.
Hybrid thefts increased by a more modest 4%, from 4,697 to 4,891.
In total, 6,743 electric and hybrid vehicles were reported stolen between January 1 and June 30, 2026, a 12% increase from 6,015 in the first half of 2025.
Top 10 stolen EV models for the first six months of 2026
According to the Tempcover analysis of DVLA data, the top 10 most stolen EV models are:
In total, 1,085 EVs were stolen, combining the figures of the top 10.
The Toyota C-HR Dynamic HEV CVT topped the list as the most stolen EV with 163 thefts.
This was actually down slightly from 166 stolen in the first six months of 2025, but still put it well clear in first.
Another Toyota model, the C-HR Excel HEV CVT, was in second with 128 thefts.
In third place was the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Ultimate EV with 116, which was up 241% from the 34 stolen in the first six months of 2025.
Jake Lambert, temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, said: “As the UK’s shift to electric vehicles gathers pace, vehicle crime is adapting alongside it.
"Thieves go where the opportunity is, and with more zero-emission models on the road, criminal tactics are shifting to follow that volume.
“This isn’t a reason to avoid going electric, but it is a good reason to understand your insurance cover.
"A comprehensive policy is worth considering for an electric vehicle because it can cover the car, including its high-voltage battery, against accidental damage, third-party claims and theft, whether it’s on the road or parked up.
"Cover varies between policies, so check what yours includes for the battery, charging cable and in-car tech."
How to stop your car from being stolen
Some thieves use relay attacks to steal cars, so drivers can protect themselves by keeping their keys in a metal box or signal-blocking wallet, which can prevent thieves from intercepting the key's signal.
The RAC also advises motorists to park in well-lit public areas and, where possible, choose secure car parks.
It adds: "If you need to use a car park, try to find one that's security patrolled, covered by CCTV, or that is in a secure area."
Steering and brake locks can also act as additional deterrents, while a tracking device may help recover a car if it is stolen.
Lambert shared: "With pure EVs entering the top 20, security must keep pace with the tech.
"Beyond Faraday pouches and parking nose-in to block wiring access, EV owners must secure their companion app.
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"If the app holds a digital key, set a PIN or biometric lock – a basic password isn't enough.
"Lock charging cables to prevent component theft, and keep software updates active.
"But it’s still essential to get the basic habits right: don't leave the app logged in on unlocked phones, and keep physical keys away from your front door."
Have car thefts affected your area this year? Let us know in the comments.
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