September 2020
Featured in this insight: Automotive, Climate change & environment, Environment & sustainability
44% of motorists think they will not be ready to own an electric vehicle by 2035 deadline: A survey of motorists has found that 44% feel they will not be ready to move over to an electric car by the deadline set by the government of 2035.
The research by The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd (SMMT) polled 2,185 drivers and found that around a quarter (26%) cannot foresee themselves ever owning their own EV in their lifetime.
Back in February 2020, the government announced that it was bringing forward a ban on the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles by five years, to 2035.
Optimism growing
Just over a third (37%) of the motorists polled, however, said they are 'optimistic' about buying an electric car as early as 2025 – a decade before the ban on diesel and petrol vehicles is due to start.
When asked about the barriers to motorists buying an electric vehicle, respondents listed higher purchase prices (52%), lack of local charging points (44%), and the fear of running out of charge on longer journeys.
The SMMT said that with the right strategy, the concerns of motorists can be overcome, calling on the government to commit to looking at incentives to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles.
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