Range and cost concerns still limiting consumer interest in EVs - new survey

Thu 28 November 2013 View all news

Despite support from the UK government, interest in electric vehicles (EVs) is still failing to ignite according to a new survey of 3000 car buyers by Auto Trader group. Nearly four out of five British motorists believe the Government should be doing more to make alternative fuel vehicles more affordable.

80 per cent of respondents said that they had not  seen a public charging point within five miles of their home, with 73 per cent suggesting they think that more more public facilities are necessary. 

Although there has been a £5,000 subsidy towards the purchase of a new electric vehicle since January 2011, 35% of respondents to the survey said they were unaware of this. 

Concerns about vehicle battery life and range were cited by 67% for EVs and 64% for plug-in hybrids as reasons why consumers are deciding against buying these vehicles. 

The poll also found:

  • 73% said that national TV campaigns should help spread the word about alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs)
  • 52% said AFVs should be a compulsory section in the driving theory test

Jonathan Williams, group marketing director at Auto Trader, told the Daily Mail: "The good news for car manufacturers is that British motorists are taking an interest in electric vehicles - when made aware of the the benefits and cost savings. However, we're still a long way from convincing motorists to make the switch."

Mr Williams added: "Despite a £400 million investment and a further £500 million on its way in 2015 from the Government, motorists are still lacking information on costs, efficiency and effectiveness of owning electric vehicles - and, simply, choice. Clearly not enough is being done to incentivise both manufacturers and consumers."

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