New registrations for all cars dipped 1.6 percent in January year-on-year to just over 161,000 vehicles, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said in a statement.
However, sales of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid models soared by 26 percent amid a broader government push for cleaner transport.
The industry nevertheless experiencing weaker demand for diesel cars - which face tighter regulation worldwide.
Overall sales slid for the fifth month in a row in January, prompting SMMT calls for government action to boost the beleaguered sector - which is also grappling with uncertainty over Brexit.
"It's encouraging to see car registrations in January broadly on par with a year ago as the latest high tech models and deals attracted buyers into showrooms," said SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.