Most drivers doubt EV affordability by 2030 ICE ban

Less than one in six motorists (16%) are optimistic that electric vehicle prices will drop significantly by the government’s targeted 2030 phase-out date for petrol and diesel vehicles. Despite this scepticism, a remarkable 71% of individuals anticipate driving an EV by 2030.

Recent research conducted by Startline Motor Finance highlights additional concerns regarding the transition to electric vehicles. 22% of respondents believe there will not be adequate public charging infrastructure, while 21% feel that individuals need more time to adjust to EVs. Another 21% simply state that people have a preference for traditional petrol and diesel cars.

Contrary to these apprehensions, only 21% of those surveyed support the move towards electric vehicles due to environmental reasons.

Even in the face of uncertainty, the Startline Used Car Tracker research reveals a strong inclination towards EV adoption, with 71% of respondents expecting to own an electric vehicle by 2030. Only 13% firmly state that they would never switch to an electric car.

The Labour Party’s election manifesto initially pledged to reinstate the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars, which was postponed to 2035 by Rishi Sunak in the previous year. Despite concerns raised by the fleet sector, the current government remains resolute in its commitment to enforcing the 2030 deadline.

Paul Burgess, CEO of Startline Motor Finance, acknowledges the contradictory nature of the research findings, where individuals doubt the affordability of EVs in 2030 yet anticipate owning one. Burgess suggests that people view electrification as an inevitable progression, albeit one that might come at a higher cost than current petrol or diesel vehicles. However, Burgess remains optimistic about the falling prices of EVs attributed to increasing production volumes and declining battery costs.

On a separate note, recent research reveals a lack of knowledge surrounding EVs that hinders their widespread adoption. A poll conducted by YouGov for the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) asked respondents to verify 10 statements related to electric vehicles. Surprisingly, more than half (57%) of petrol and diesel car drivers scored two or fewer correct answers, with 90% achieving only five or less. Alarmingly, 23% got none correct.

This poll echoes the concerns raised earlier this year by the House of Lords Committee, which expressed worries over a deliberate dissemination of misinformation surrounding electric vehicles.