Most drivers say EV production still has a way to go before they would switch

14 February 2024 , 11:23

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Half of millennials would be willing to make the switch to an electric vehicle in the next five years (Image: SWNS)

The top electric vehicle myths have been debunked – from the belief that EVs are not suited to long journeys (48%), to concerns that there are not enough charging stations around the UK (64%).

A survey of 2,000 motorists found that 85% feel EV production still has a long way to go, before they would consider making the switch – with this figure rising to 89%, among the over-65s.

As it stands, just 16% of those in this older age group would think about switching to an EV in the next five years – compared to 21% of 55-64-year-olds, and half of millennials, aged 25 to 34.

Over three-quarters of older drivers (77%) feel that electric cars are simply too expensive – although 46% of all those polled reckon they will become more affordable in the future.

But the number of people worried about the cost of an EV drops to just a third (34%) of 18-24-year-olds – and even among 55-64-year-olds, the main motivation for switching to an EV would be to save money (53%).

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It also emerged younger adults are more environmentally conscious – of the millennials keen to bid farewell to their petrol and diesel motors imminently, 36% would do so because of eco factors.

And 78% of young drivers are concerned about the environmental impact of petrol and diesel vehicles, compared to just 52% of over-65s.

And of those, over a third would be motivated to do so for eco reasons (SWNS)

Some of the top influencing factors for all motorists to switch include cost savings (58%), charging infrastructure (44%), and government incentives (38%).

Michael Braybrook, spokesman for electric vehicle charging manufacturer, Zaptec, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s positive to see how many youngsters are keen to make the switch to an EV in the near future – although there is some work to do to convince everyone to make the transition.

“There have always been lots of myths around about electric vehicles, from costs and charging to mileage and reliability – underlining the importance of education about the industry.

“It’s important to debunk any concerns, and encourage the nation of drivers to feel positive about the switch, as it’s something we’re all going to need to do.”

The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found that 32% worry the energy grid can’t support an increase in charging – although 37% don’t believe the UK will ever go entirely electric.

And 38% would be more likely to purchase an electric motor if the second-hand market had more choice – with 18-24-year-olds (73%), and 25-34-year olds (70%), most likely to feel this way.

Worryingly, almost two-thirds of drivers (63%) are concerned that when their petrol or diesel vehicle no longer works, they won’t be able to afford to make the switch.

Zaptec’s spokesman added: “The charge seems to be a key worry for consumers, which is why a home charger is ideal for reassuring drivers they are ready to go on any journey, long or short.

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“With electric vehicles soon to be the norm, the country will become more adept with providing charge stations. The environment seems to be the key influence for motorists wanting to own an EV, which is a step in the right direction to doing our bit for climate change.”

TOP EV MYTHS DEBUNKED:

1. EVs are too expensive. Lower running costs often offset higher purchase prices, according to industry figures.
   
2. There are not enough charging stations in the UK. There’s been a reported 46% increase in the total number of charging points available in the UK since January 2023.
3. EVs aren't suited for long journeys. New EVs have an average range of almost 300 miles, according to industry figures – nearly three times the average weekly mileage, with many models able to travel further.
4. The energy grid can't support an increase in EV charging. Estimates show the grid would experience only a 10% increase in demand if all UK drivers suddenly switched to EVs – comfortably within current capacity.
5. Electric vehicle batteries are wasteful, and can't be recycled. Electric car batteries can be recycled, but lithium-ion batteries should be treated with care during disposal, and handled by experts only.

Sarah Lumley