Existing electric vehicle (EV) drivers have reported confidence and satisfaction in their attitudes towards EV adoption, according to a new survey.
Shell has published insights from its 2025 Shell Recharge Driver Survey, which looks at the view of more than 15,000 drivers across Europe, USA and China.
The survey highlights a significant increase in confidence among existing EV drivers. Six in ten (61%) EV drivers globally agree that they worry less than a year ago about running out of charge, and nearly three-quarters (72%) say that the options and availability of public charging points has improved.
Signalling a strong commitment to the transition towards electric mobility, nine in ten (91%) current EV drivers (both Battery EVs and Plug-in Hybrid EVs) indicate they would consider another EV as their next vehicle.
There is some work to do on adoption of EVs from ICE drivers. In the US, the interest is marginally lower (31% in 2025 versus 34% in 2024), while in Europe, interest in EVs has decreased to 41% in 2025 versus 48% in 2024.
Cost remains the leading barrier to EV adoption, particularly in Europe, where 43% of non-EV drivers cite affordability.
When it comes to policies encouraging the phase-out of ICE vehicles, 46% of drivers of petrol and diesel cars in the USA say they agree with such policies, and in Europe the figure is 44%.
A significant majority (75% of EV drivers and 80% of non-EV drivers) purchasing at least one non-fuel retail item monthly. Coffee emerged as the most popular choice among all drivers with four in ten (41%) drivers enjoying at least a cup each month.
But six in ten (60%) stated they would only buy coffee from a service station if it was deemed good quality.
David Bunch, Group Executive Vice President of Shell Mobility & Convenience said:
“Shell has invested in building the UK’s largest public charging network, and this research reinforces what we hear from our customers: there’s a growing disparity in the transition to electric vehicles.
“While current EV drivers are feeling more confident, the relatively high cost of owning an electric vehicle, combined with broader economic pressures, are making it a difficult decision for new consumers. The 20% VAT on public charging certainly isn’t helping.
“With the right policies and industry collaboration, we can make the transition affordable for consumers and attractive for investors. But more must be done to stimulate demand and ensure no one is left behind in the shift to cleaner transport.”
“There’s a clear demand for good quality coffee among drivers, and we are committed to meeting this need whether that’s through our convenience partners or Shell Café, to ensure drivers have access to high-quality fresh coffee and other amenities.”
Image from Shutterstock
