New initiative helps UK drivers test drive electric vehicles.

AX, a specialist in accident management, is taking a step towards sustainability by launching an exciting initiative that aims to promote electric vehicles (EVs). The new EV test drive programme, called EValuate, allows petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicle drivers to experience an EV as a replacement vehicle while their own vehicle is undergoing repairs after an accident.

With EValuate, drivers get access to an EV for an average of 28 days, giving them a more comprehensive experience than a typical test drive. This initiative not only helps AX’s 40,000 customers annually understand what it’s like to live with an EV but also contributes towards sustainability efforts.

As modern vehicles become more complex and repair times increase due to supply chain issues, the EValuate scheme offers drivers of traditional combustion engine vehicles an extended, real-world experience with an EV while their vehicle is out of commission.

Interestingly, nearly a quarter of vehicles involved in accidents are deemed total losses. Offering a temporary EV replacement through EValuate could potentially lead to a permanent transition to electric vehicles, thereby boosting EV adoption among private drivers and creating sales opportunities for dealers and manufacturers.

A recent survey by AX revealed that 44% of motorists believe that trying out an EV as a replacement vehicle is an effective way to test EV ownership. Additionally, more than 18% of motorists are considering purchasing an EV as their next car, indicating a growing interest in electric mobility.

While fleet and business buyers currently drive the majority of EV purchases, private retail demand is on the decline. Only around one in six new fully electric vehicles (BEVs) this year were bought by consumers, posing a challenge for manufacturers to meet the Government’s zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate.

However, a study found that 91% of EV drivers would not consider going back to a combustion engine vehicle. Leveraging its fleet of 5,000 vehicles and partnerships with manufacturers, AX is paving the way for consumers to experience EVs first-hand, potentially leading to a permanent switch to electric mobility.

Scott Hamilton-Cooper, AX’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasised the significance of the EValuate initiative in providing consumers with a more immersive EV experience compared to traditional test drives. He highlighted the positive impact on reducing CO2 emissions for the business and its partners, aligning with sustainability objectives.

Dan Cripps, Director of Fleet & Logistics at AX, shared his perspective on the evolving fleet landscape as the nation shifts towards alternatively fuelled vehicles. By enabling motorists to trial EVs in their everyday environment, AX aims to stimulate private buyer demand and encourage a wider adoption of electric vehicles.

The EValuate programme will also be accessible through AX’s Motor Assist modular incident management service, further expanding its reach and impact in promoting sustainable mobility choices.