Electric car interest surges 28% as Middle East conflict drives fuel prices higher, according to new Autotrader data.
New EV leads across the platform jumped significantly in less than a month. Drivers are increasingly worried about running costs as oil prices climb.
Used EV leads also rose 15% during the same period.
These enquiries now represent almost a fifth of all leads on used cars up to five years old – the highest level on record. The shift comes as ongoing conflict in the Middle East pushes oil prices upward, creating a knock-on effect at fuel pumps across the UK.
Fuel Prices Jump Dramatically
Petrol prices have increased roughly 12% since the Iran conflict began. Diesel costs are up 22%, RAC data shows.
Petrol climbed from an average of £1.32 per litre to £1.48 since February 28. Diesel jumped from £1.42 to £1.73 over the same timeframe.
The RAC’s Fuel Watch service estimates petrol could reach £1.50 per litre within the next week. Diesel might hit £1.80 per litre.
EV Running Costs Provide Alternative
The price increases are pushing drivers toward electric alternatives. EVs can be charged for as little as 7p per kWh – equivalent to running costs of around 2p per mile.
That compares to almost 17p per mile for an average petrol car at current fuel prices.
Ian Plummer, Autotrader’s chief customer officer, said the interest shift reflects motorists’ concerns about running costs and future fuel security.
“Even though petrol prices aren’t anywhere near the extremes of 2022 yet, the Iran conflict has clearly moved fuel costs to the front of buyers’ minds,” Plummer explained.
The data shows sharp increases in both new and used EV leads since the war began at the end of February. Used EV enquiries hit record levels on the Autotrader marketplace during this period.
“This isn’t just about price, it’s about confidence. When people feel that traditional fuel is vulnerable to global events, the appeal of electric becomes far stronger so the conflict is acting as a significant catalyst for EV interest across the UK market.”
Plummer noted that previous interest peaks – like those seen in 2022 – haven’t led to sustained increases in electric purchases.
“There is still work to do to ensure consumers are confident that electric cars can fit their lifestyles.”
