The AA: more needs to be done on EV adoption

More needs to be done to ramp up EV adoption, according to a new AA study launched today (Monday 10 March).

AA research has found 52% of drivers who have said their next car will be an EV are still worried about price and range.

There are still some 22% who say they “never want” an EV – almost a quarter – despite new ICE vehicles being banned in five years time. In addition, some 20% said they want to “stick with” their ICE vehicle “as long as I can”. Even the 7% who already drive or own an EV said that “improvements in the experience are still needed”.

According to The AA, many drivers have been left behind in the transition, and understanding their views is key to unlocking progress.

The AA study finds that affordability of EVs is vital and as a majority of drivers buy used cars, a healthy second hand car market is essential.

The current EV system to support drivers is not well-developed and this is damaging EV owner advocacy even from some of the early adopters

Different approaches and incentives are needed to target these groups. Some of the negative views may have been influenced by misinformation but people are confused by the transition.

Some 7% think that all ICE vehicles, including used cars, will be banned, a third think they can get a manual EV, and 73% of all ICE drivers have no experience of EVs at all.

The AA report, based on extensive data and research, has been sent to the Transport Secretary and Energy and Climate Change Secretary, and highlights the need for more support and better information to encourage EV uptake.

Key Findings:

1. EV breakdown rates: In 2024, only 1.85% of all EV breakdowns were due to running out of charge compared to approximately 1% of ICE vehicles running out of fuel.
2. Driver sentiments: Even the adopters are cautious in their recommendations and recognise that EVs are not for everyone yet.
3. Cost barriers: The average cost of a new EV in 2024 was £59,216, compared to £46,991 for petrol vehicles but prices are coming down. EVs make up only 2% of the second-hand car market.
4. Government support: Qualitative feedback from EV drivers indicates a feeling of abandonment.
5. Second-hand market: The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) states there has been a 60% decline in used EV prices since 2022.
6. Charging infrastructure: 40% of drivers do not have access to home charging. Additionally, 72% of drivers cite ‘inconvenience’ as a major disadvantage of EVs.

AA’s Recommendations:

• EV drive UK public awareness campaign: The AA proposes a coordinated public awareness campaign led by government and industry to address the doubts and needs of different driver segments.
• Lower costs: The government should identify targeted incentives to make EVs more accessible for everyone.
• Boost second-hand market: The AA supports the government’s proposal for battery health passports to alleviate concerns about the quality of used EVs.
• Allow Plug-In hybrids: Even the ‘rejectors’ would consider hybrids.
• Improve charging visibility: Policymakers should reduce red tape to allow signing of charging infrastructure to enhance the driver experience and perception of EVs.
• Enhance the secondary aspects of EV driving: Drivers were unaware of the support available to them to maintain, repair, or insure EVs.

Jakob Pfaudler, AA CEO, said:

“From opening the first filling station and erecting the first road signs, The AA has always led on motoring innovation.

“Our message to government is more needs to be done to make EVs accessible for everyone. Generally drivers are hesitant but most are not hostile to the change. The AA is in a unique position to help as we deal with drivers throughout the driving life-cycle from learning to drive, buying, insuring, and repairing their cars.

“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.

“The AA, as a trusted brand with 14m members, is in a great position to help government and drivers make this transition which is essential if we are to reach our climate goals. As a starting point, a government-backed awareness campaign, a healthy used EV market, and some targeted incentives are needed to charge up the transition.”

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