Limited charging infrastructure (50%) and concerns over battery life (52%) are among the top reasons why UK drivers wouldn’t invest in an electric vehicle, a new study by E.ON has found.
The energy firm’s study found that close to a third of UK car buyers (30%) would consider going electric when buying their next vehicle, however drivers in rural areas (28%) were more resistant to switching than those in urban areas (31%).
Sustainability a key motivating factor
In terms of the motivating factors that would prompt a driver to invest in an EV, sustainability came out on top, cited by 74% of respondents. Cheaper running costs were cited by 58% of respondents, while just under a fifth (18%) cited an improved performance from electric vehicles.
However, higher purchase prices and perceived limits on charging infrastructure are slowing the switch to sustainable transport, E.ON said.
Upfront vehicle costs were cited as the top concern by 66% of respondents, particularly for those living in suburban areas (75%). In addition, some 62% cited concerns over the availability of public charging facilities in their area (62%).
‘Environmental and financial beneft’
“The potential for EVs in the UK is immense and our survey shows there is growing desire from drivers who recognise the environmental and financial benefits of switching to cleaner motoring,” commented Dev Chana, managing director of E.ON Drive Infrastructure UK. “The increased desire from drivers throws down a challenge to vehicle manufacturers, tech companies and local authorities to make sure the vehicles and the infrastructure they rely on are available and visible nationwide.”
E.ON has installed approximately 8,000 EV chargers in homes across the UK and around 2,000 chargers for small businesses, while over the past year, it has introduced 72 ultra-fast charging bays across the UK.
“We’re not just meeting today’s demands, but building infrastructure to make sure electric mobility is convenient and accessible for everyone,” Chana added. Read more here.
