New AA analysis shows petrol is 24p a litre more expensive than a year ago, meaning drivers are paying £13.20 more to fill a typical 55-litre tank, as more move to electric vehicles (EV).
Although the pace of increase has slowed, the AA said that pump prices “remain high” and the road fuel market continues to be volatile, leaving many households under continued pressure every time they refuel.
Against the backdrop, more drivers are looking at EV listings with views on the AA’s used cars site rising by more than 43% between the week commencing 2 March and the week commencing 6 April.
Month-on-month growth also was remaining positive throughout and year-on-year performance improved to a 41% increase by late March.
For many households, “the question is no longer just what car they want to drive, but what they can afford to run over time”, the AA said.
As petrol prices remain elevated, “the appeal of EVs is likely to grow among motorists comparing not only upfront prices, but also the wider cost of ownership”, it added.
Upfront affordability for new cars remains an important factor, and practical considerations such as charging access, range and suitability for different lifestyles continue to shape buying decisions, it also said.
The AA’s latest UK EV Readiness Index suggests the market is moving in the right direction, with the overall readiness score rising to 53.8 in the first quarter of 2026 as used EV affordability improves, even though the wider market is still in transition rather than at the point of mass adoption.
Edmund King, AA President, said:
“When fuel prices spike, drivers quickly start questioning the true cost of motoring — and whether there’s a better-value alternative.
“That’s where electric vehicles come into sharper focus. As petrol and diesel costs climb, more motorists are attracted to the lower day-to-day running costs of an EV.
“The latest AA Cars data shows this shift is already happening. As people do the maths, EVs are moving firmly into the mainstream conversation. They won’t suit everyone yet — but for many, rising fuel costs are the tipping point that makes switching a serious option.”
Image courtesy of Green Car Guide
