The AA has called on the government to improve public understanding of the UK’s transition to electric vehicles and provide financial support to help drivers make the switch.
Most drivers aren’t opposed to EVs but many remain confused about the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and what the planned phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicles actually means for them, according to the motoring organisation.
The AA is urging a government-backed public awareness campaign alongside “targeted incentives” to accelerate the country’s shift towards EVs and convince drivers that electric vehicles are “desirable, not just unavoidable.”
A survey of more than 14,000 AA members revealed significant misconceptions about the EV transition. 7% incorrectly believed that used petrol and diesel car sales would be banned in 2030 — when only new pure internal combustion engine models will be prohibited.
A third of respondents also thought EVs with manual transmissions were available on the market.
Jakob Pflauder, the AA’s chief executive, said this confusion must be addressed to support the UK’s transport emissions reduction goals.
“Our message to government is more needs to be done to make EVs accessible for everyone,” he said. “Generally drivers are hesitant but most are not hostile to the change.”
“Our research shows many people are confused by the transition which is not surprising as the main catalyst for change, the ZEV mandate, only governs supply but does little to encourage demand for EVs.”
“The ambitious goal of the Climate Change Committee that 80% of cars and 74% of vans should be electric by 2040 shows how much needs to be done to get there.”
Better information and tax cuts
The AA recommends the government work with the motor industry on a public information campaign targeting EV-skeptical drivers and explaining both the ZEV mandate and 2030 phase-out plans.
It also proposed targeted financial incentives, including reducing VAT on public charging from 20% to 5% to make charging more affordable for drivers without off-street parking.
EVs continue to gain popularity in the UK, accounting for 25% of new car registrations in February.
Sue Davies, head of consumer rights at Which?, supported the AA’s proposals.
“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,” she said.
“The government needs to provide the right information on electric vehicles and other sustainable choices so that people have the confidence to switch.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson responded to the AA’s report: “We’re investing over £2.3 billion to help industry and consumers make a supported switch to EVs.”
“This includes installing a public chargepoint every 28 minutes, keeping EV incentives in the company car tax regime to 2030, and extending 100% first year allowances for zero emission cars for another year.”
“Second-hand EVs are also becoming cheaper than ever, with one in three available under £20,000 and 21 brand new models available for less than £30,000.”
“We’re seeing growing consumer confidence as a result.”
