A recent study conducted by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has revealed that only a quarter of new electric cars are purchased by private motorists. The data shows that fleet buyers account for 75% of electric vehicle (EV) purchases, although EVs are predicted to make up nearly 18% of the new car market by 2023.
Mike Hawes, president of the SMMT, assured private buyers that transitioning from traditional petrol or diesel cars to electric is no longer a risky decision. He emphasized that the UK has the necessary industry capabilities, technological enthusiasm, and scale to become a leader in the EV market. However, he also stressed the importance of government support extending to consumers, following its commitment to EV manufacturing in the country.
The SMMT further revealed that there is a notable surge in EV registrations in the UK, with one new electric vehicle being registered every minute. This represents a 21-fold increase compared to 2018. Nevertheless, many private buyers express concerns about the accessibility and affordability of EVs, particularly the public charging infrastructure.
The study found that 84% of electric vehicle-owning private motorists have access to a private charger, making recharging more convenient. Additionally, 90% of these owners stated that they would not go back to using traditional petrol cars.
To overcome the barriers hindering private buyers from adopting EVs, the SMMT urges the government to implement measures such as reducing VAT on new electric cars to align prices with their petrol counterparts. They also recommend increasing the threshold for Vehicle Excise Duty and decreasing VAT on public charging services. Furthermore, the SMMT advocates for the establishment of mandates for new public vehicle chargers to ensure sufficient infrastructure is in place before the ban on new petrol and diesel cars takes effect in 2030.
Sources:
– Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)
– Mike Hawes, President of the SMMT