EVA England has released the results from its annual driver survey, with nearly 1700 drivers responding, around 1300 of whom drive electric.
95% of EV drivers would recommend an EV to their family and friends and the results highlight increasing trust in the technology and notable improvements in availability of public charging infrastructure.
Despite this, a gap is emerging between the data and real-world drivers’ experiences.
Barriers and frustrations mentioned include:
- A widening charging divide between those with access to home charging and those without - and access to home charging is emerging as the key indicator of EV readiness for a household (and key barrier for those without);
- Affordability and accessibility are still presenting real barriers for many households.
- Frustrations with payment processes and public charging connections are ongoing and causing damage to wider perceptions of EVs
- And misinformation - particularly at dealership level - continues to be a key issue.
Other trends worth noting:
- Hybrid drivers believe their next purchase will be a full battery electric vehicle
- Around two-thirds of EV drivers (65%) say they drive about the same amount as they would with a petrol or diesel car. However, 29% say they drive more.
In the survey report, EVA England re-emphasise ongoing calls for better support for consumers wanting to transition to electric - including stronger interventions in the used car market, stronger action around public charging prices and the general cost and convenience of the on street residential landscape, mandating accessibility standards and standardising payment processes.
The next steps for EVA England is a series of deep dives with its members and partners, where it will refine existing recommendations.
View or download the report: ‘Charging Divide’ holding back fair transition to EVs | EVA England : EVA England
