Drivers across the United Kingdom are reportedly “confused” about the transition to electric vehicles, according to a recent survey conducted by the AA. The findings highlight significant misunderstandings about key aspects of the technology, despite the growing push for EVs from both the government and manufacturers.
The AA’s research revealed that while the majority of drivers are “not hostile” to electric vehicles, many are misinformed. For example, around seven percent of respondents incorrectly believe that the sale of used petrol and diesel cars will be banned. Furthermore, about a third of the over 14,000 AA members surveyed incorrectly believe manual EVs are available, despite all electric vehicles being automatic.
Despite increasing government incentives and initiatives, a concerning 22 percent of those surveyed stated they would never buy an EV. The AA’s report concluded that convincing drivers to view EVs as “desirable, not just unavoidable” is crucial to a successful transition.
AA Chief Executive Jakob Pfaudler emphasized the need for greater clarity. “Our research shows many people are confused by the transition which is not surprising. Our message to Government is more needs to be done to make EVs accessible for everyone,” he said.
The AA has called on the government to collaborate with the motoring industry to launch a public awareness campaign specifically targeting hesitant drivers. They have also urged ministers to consider “targeted incentives” designed to reduce the cost of EV ownership. These recommendations include reducing Value Added Tax (VAT) on public charging from 20 percent to five percent, aligning it with the rate for home charging. Such a move would particularly benefit drivers without access to off-street parking, in addition to potential tax breaks that have been supported by drivers.
The government’s commitment to transitioning to EVs is evident in the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate. The ZEV mandate requires at least 22 percent of new cars and 10 percent of new vans sold by each manufacturer in the UK in 2024 to be zero-emission. By 2030, these targets will increase to 80 percent of new cars and 70 percent of new vans. Manufacturers failing to meet these mandates face significant penalties, with fines of £15,000 per non-compliant vehicle above the limits.
The Department for Transport is investing over £2.3 billion to support the shift towards EVs. A spokesperson for the department stated, “This includes installing a public chargepoint every 28 minutes, keeping EV incentives in the company car tax regime to 2030, and extending 100 percent first year allowances for zero emission cars for another year.”
The spokesperson also noted that used EVs are becoming more affordable, with one in three available for less than £20,000, and 21 new models available for under £30,000, indicating growing consumer confidence.
Sue Davies, head of consumer rights and food policy at Which?, added, “When it comes to making sustainable choices such as switching to an electric car, our research shows that people are often held back by high costs, complex choices or uncertainty. The Government needs to provide the right information on electric vehicles and other sustainable choices so that people have the confidence to switch.”
