The AA, a U.K.-based motoring organization with 14 million members, is urging the government to take stronger action to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). In a report issued on March 10, the AA emphasized the need for a more proactive approach to encourage the transition to EVs and combat what they identify as disinformation.
Polling data collected by the AA reveals a mixed response from drivers. While a significant portion are open to the switch, a considerable percentage remains hesitant. The AA’s research categorizes drivers into four groups:
- Rejectors: 22% of drivers express complete rejection of EVs.
- Doubters: 20% are neutral or unlikely to consider an EV for their next vehicle and are less inclined to do so in the future.
- Potentials: 52% state they are likely or very likely to choose an EV for their next car in the next five years.
- Adopters: 7% currently own or drive an EV or have done so previously. This group believes that improvements are still needed to enhance the EV experience.
The AA suggests that negative perceptions of EVs may stem from misinformation. The organization cites what they describe as a generally negative stance toward EVs by the U.K.’s right-wing press over the past several years. “Many drivers don’t appreciate that as the ban nears, fewer and fewer internal combustion engine cars will be available for sale,” the AA stated.
The AA’s report, titled ‘What do drivers want from the new EV transition?’, was sent to the Transport Secretary and Energy and Climate Change Secretary. It aligns with the U.K.’s Climate Change Committee’s recommendation that 80% of cars and 74% of vans should be electric vehicles by 2040, as highlighted in a recent report. To address the public’s concerns and encourage a shift towards EVs, the AA proposes a public awareness campaign led by the government and industry.
AA CEO Jakob Pfaudler summarized the organization’s position: “Our message to the government is that more needs to be done to make EVs accessible to everyone. Generally, drivers are hesitant, but most are not hostile to the change. Our research shows many people are confused by the transition.”
