Data from the AA reveals that EVs are more likely to be successfully repaired at the roadside compared to petrol and diesel vehicles.
In addition, data also revealed that 12 volt batteries in internal combustion engines were more likely to be a reason for a call out than the battery of an EV.
It comes as almost half of consumers are concerned about roadside repairs and the risk of breakdowns when switching to an electric vehicle (EV), according to new research.
The study of more than 2,000 drivers in December 2025 by the AA and Autotrader found that the 75+ cohort was the most concerned – around 56% of those surveyed – and women were slightly more likely to be concerned than men overall (46% to 41%).
Additionally, a recent SMMT survey of aftermarket businesses found that 81.2% of UK workshops are already equipped to work on EVs, reinforcing the improved ease of repairing EVs.
The research and data comes as The AA have been announced as champions of the ‘Facts’ initiative on EVs. In the most recent update, the number of public charge points is now 87,796 with rapid and ultra-rapid chargers up to 17,935. The price difference between EVs and petrol cars has dropped to 17% from 25% a year ago.
Edmund King, AA president, said:
“For many drivers the switch to electric is a big step and some are understandably hesitant. However, one thing prospective electric drivers don’t need to worry about is breaking down.
“The AA has the biggest database of EV breakdowns in the UK and our data shows EVs running out of charge is a tiny proportion of EV breakdowns and has fallen dramatically since 2015. In addition, we fix a greater proportion of EVs at the roadside than petrol and diesel cars and the small number we can’t fix can easily be towed with our free-wheeling hub.
“These are ‘The Facts’ when it comes to electric breakdowns, so we are delighted to join with Autotrader, ChargeUK, OZEV and SMMT to share these facts to give confidence to drivers.”
Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Autotrader, said:
“It’s fantastic to have the AA join our campaign to make sure that drivers have the right information to make informed choices.
“Their data shows EVs can offer high levels of reliability, far more than many drivers may expect. Whilst electric cars might not be right for all buyers right now – if you can charge off-street, it could be a great option – we hope The Facts help provide confidence for those that are considering going electric.”
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather said:
“We know confidence is key when it comes to families going electric, so I welcome this report highlighting the reliability of EVs which are less likely to break down than petrol and diesel cars.
“Data shows the vast majority of EV owners would never go back, and to support more people access the benefits of making the switch we’re investing over £7.5 billion, including £2 billion for the Electric Car Grant which has helped nearly 50,000 people save up to £3,750 when buying a new EV.”
Image courtesy of ‘The Facts’ initiative
