A fifth (19%) of future car buyers believe they will never switch to an EV. However, the experiences of disabled people on the Motability Scheme could unlock lessons for the automotive sector, which is gearing up for more EVs to come into the new car market ahead of the 2030 ban on the sale of new ICE vehicles.
That’s according to the ‘EV Transition Tracker’, created by Motability Operations - the company that runs the Motability Scheme, connecting disabled drivers to freedom and independence.
The research suggests that a lack of exposure and familiarity with EVs may be deterring many from making the switch, as 43% of the UK public have never driven nor been a passenger in an EV and only 21% of this group would consider buying an EV.
However, with every experience of an EV, people are more likely to feel positive about them and more likely to consider one.
Increased EV positivity at every touchpoint
While just 24% of those who have never driven nor been an EV passenger feel positive about EVs, positivity jumps to 44% among those who have been a passenger; 74% among those who have charged an EV; and 90% among those who own one.
Findings among a survey of disabled drivers that are part of the Motability Scheme’s Headlight community shows the same trend - with twice as many Scheme customers (44%) having driven an EV than the wider UK, and almost half (48%) saying they would consider choosing one in the next three years.
EV experience helps shift perceptions
EV drivers also have a different perspective on their cars. The overall UK perception of EVs is that they are exclusive, high-tech vehicles - with 51% saying the term “technologically advanced” better describes an EV than a petrol or diesel vehicle, and 33% saying the same about “luxurious”.
Unlike the wider UK public, EV drivers are also more likely to say “familiar” (50%) and “good value for money” (47%) describe EVs better than ICE vehicles - factors closer to what drivers say are important for their next car.
Vicki Hoban, Para Equestrian and EV driver on the Motability Scheme, said: “I received my first electric vehicle from the Motability Scheme last year. While it’s been a great experience, there is a lot to learn when you first start. From working out how accessible the vehicles are, to charging and learning how to navigate the public network. It can be off-putting if you don’t have previous experience or access to the right support. We also need to ensure that points are available at all fuel stations to enhance convenience and accessibility for disabled people.”
Hybrids a vital steppingstone
According to the findings, hybrid vehicles could be key to building electric exposure and ensuring a smooth transition, with almost half (47%) of hybrid drivers looking to buy a new vehicle saying they would be likely to choose an EV in the next three years.
And, with 50% of people viewing hybrid vehicles positively – only second to petrol (57%) - hybrids could provide an important middle ground for drivers and manufacturers, helping drivers feel comfortable with electric technology and automakers meet ZEV sales targets.
Andrew Miller, CEO at Motability Operations, said: “The UK car market is approaching a period of strong tension. Now more than ever it is vital that those who can benefit from the shift to electric feel supported and ready to switch. Failing to do so will not only place manufacturers on a dangerous cliff edge but will mean many drivers are unprepared for the shift as the availability of new ICE vehicles declines.
“Our customers face extra challenges with the switch to electric, but they cannot be left behind. That’s why we offer EV test drives and charging demonstrations, to assess whether an EV could be right for them and where they aren’t, working to find solutions that will meet their needs.”
Ian Plummer, Commercial Director at Autotrader, explained: “Our research shows that people who drive electric vehicles really enjoy them and rarely want to go back to petrol and diesel cars. We’ve also found that seeing friends or family successfully use electric vehicles encourages others to consider making the switch. Motability Operations’ electric test drives and demonstrations are important for building confidence and more industry players should offer this, from weekend test drives to unbiased information – there’s a very clear role for industry to play in allaying fears and explaining EVs.”
Please find the EV Transition Tracker report here: https://www.mo.co.uk/our-impact/ev-transition-tracker
