Suffolk Taxi Drivers Face Hurdles in Transition to Electric Vehicles
Suffolk, UK – A recent survey conducted by Suffolk Council has revealed significant concerns among the area’s taxi drivers regarding the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), despite the impending Zero Emission Vehicle mandate. The survey, which assessed the barriers preventing drivers from adopting cleaner alternatives, found that a vast majority of Suffolk’s taxi fleet currently runs on diesel.
According to the results, 81% of taxi drivers are still using diesel vehicles. This is despite increased pressure to adopt more sustainable options. The survey highlighted three primary obstacles hindering the shift to EVs:
- Range Anxiety: Drivers are worried about the distance EVs can travel on a single charge.
- Cost: Suitable electric vehicles are perceived as too expensive.
- Charging Infrastructure: Concerns exist about the availability of charging points during shifts.
Range anxiety topped the list of driver concerns. Drivers worry about the limited range of EVs, fearing they won’t be able to cover their daily routes without running out of power. The cost of electric vehicles was the second-highest barrier, cited by 71% of respondents. Many drivers find the initial investment in EVs prohibitive, particularly when compared to the cost of diesel alternatives. The third major concern focused on the availability of charging infrastructure. Drivers expressed worry that they would struggle to find places to charge their vehicles while working.
Of particular difficulty is the transition for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which are required by licensing policies. These vehicles are few and far between, and come with prices ranging from £35,000 to £80,000 compared to cheaper diesel models.
Councillor Gerald Kelly, Chair of the Suffolk Councils’ Environment Portfolio Holders’ Group, stated, “I’d like to thank Suffolk’s taxi and private hire drivers who took part in the survey, to help us understand the challenges that they face when considering moving over to an electric vehicle. Some of these are practical concerns, and some we can help myth-bust.” He added, “Everyone has a responsibility and a role to play but I’m pleased we’re able to support our taxi drivers explore the possibilities of operating electric vehicles.”
While the initial costs of EVs are higher, the council noted that they offer lower running expenses. This is due to reduced maintenance costs and cheaper charging compared to refueling. The survey also found that 52% of drivers would be incentivized to switch to EVs if there were dedicated charge points for taxis. This was surprisingly more popular than financial incentives. Other potential incentives include cheaper charging at public charge points, grants to purchase EVs, and reduced or free public car parking for electric vehicles.
Some local authorities are already rolling out supportive measures. Cambridge City Council, for instance, offers extended age limits (up to 15 years) for zero-emission vehicles and aims for all licensed saloon vehicles to be zero or ultra-low emission by 2028.
Nationwide trends also show a shift towards cleaner vehicles. Between 2020 and 2024, the proportion of taxis using petrol and diesel in England fell from 89% to 71%, while the presence of hybrid vehicles more than doubled, rising from 10% to 28%.
