Labour Faces Pressure to Deliver on EV Battery Certificate Pledge
As new tax measures for electric vehicles (EVs) are set to be introduced in April, the Labour party is facing renewed calls to fulfill its manifesto promise of introducing battery health certificates for used EVs. This push comes as concerns about battery life continue to deter potential EV buyers.
According to a report from AXA and Aviloo, a significant portion of drivers are hesitant to transition to electric vehicles. The survey revealed that 63% of drivers have no plans to buy an EV, with 37% citing concerns over battery life as a deterrent. Only 8% would consider purchasing a secondhand EV.
Experts argue that battery health certificates could alleviate these concerns, potentially making it easier for drivers to switch from petrol and diesel cars. These certificates, which are not currently a legal requirement, could positively impact insurance premiums by enabling insurers to accurately assess the value of used EVs.
Marco Distefano, Managing Director of AXA Retail, emphasized the potential benefits: “Battery health certificates have the potential to boost consumer confidence and drive demand to create a thriving second-hand EV market. It’s clear that motorists have concerns around both the lifespan and cost of electric vehicles and without addressing these issues, there is a risk that EV uptake will remain low.”
In Labour’s manifesto, the party outlined its commitment to supporting the transition to EVs by standardizing information on battery condition for used car buyers. However, progress has been slow.
Meanwhile, drivers face additional financial burdens starting April 1. EVs priced over £40,000 will be subject to an annual Expensive Car Supplement of £425 for five years, in addition to Vehicle Excise Duty payments for the first time.
AXA UK is urging the government to publish guidelines supporting standardized battery health testing “as soon as possible” to help the UK meet its Zero Emission Vehicle mandate which requires at least 28% of new car sales to be electric this year before moving to 100% in 2035. Currently, while new EVs and their batteries come with manufacturer warranties, there is no standardized system for secondhand EVs.
The survey also uncovered that motorists also cite the high cost (61%) and a lack of charging points in their local areas (36%) as major deterrents for buying EVs despite the UK having 75,000 power stations.
