UK Motorists: Nation Not Ready to Transition to EVs

Despite governmental pushes towards an EV future, UK motorists remain largely unconvinced. A recent survey by Quotezone.co.uk reveals that 90% of drivers believe the UK is not ready for a full EV transition, with 79% expressing concerns that the 2035 ban on petrol and diesel cars is too soon.

The survey, conducted in January 2025, polled 1,000 motorists on their views about EV adoption, the readiness of the UK’s infrastructure and the incentives that would encourage them to switch from petrol or diesel cars to electric alternatives.

Zero-emission mandate and current adoption rates

Under the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, all newly registered cars must be electric or zero-emission vehicles by 2035. The mandate sets intermediate targets, with 80% of new cars and 70% of vans required to be zero-emission by 2030, rising to 100% by 2035.

Although 2024 saw record EV sales, with 382,000 EVs sold—a 21% increase from 2023—adoption remains sluggish. Licensed zero-emission vehicles currently represent just 2.7% of all vehicles on UK roads, suggesting that consumers remain hesitant about making the switch.

Quotezone's survey results indicate that more than half (57%) of respondents have no plans to transition to an EV. Of those considering it, 14% plan to switch just before the 2035 ban and only 6% currently own an EV.

Government incentives are a key concern for many motorists. More than half (54%) believe financial support, such as grants and tax benefits, would encourage them to switch. Additionally, 48% stated they would consider an EV if home charger installation were free.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone, comments on these concerns: “We’re only ten years away from the proposed ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles, but here in the UK, we have a long way to go in improving the infrastructure and increasing motorists’ enthusiasm for EVs.”

Greg highlights practical challenges such as the high cost of EVs and limited public charging points, with 16% of survey respondents citing these issues as major concerns.

Infrastructure and government support

The UK government has made significant investments in EV infrastructure, with a 38% increase in charging points over the last 12 months.

The goal is to install 300,000 public charging stations by 2030, but concerns remain regarding low mileage, high maintenance costs and EV resale values.

Road tax exemptions for EVs will end in April 2025, while popular schemes like the Plug-In Car Grant, which helped reduce purchase costs, will end in June 2022. However, grants such as the Electric Vehicle Chargepoint Grant remain available.

Industry perspectives on EV adoption

Industry experts acknowledge the public’s concerns but argue that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial challenges.

Dunstan Power, Director of ByteSnap Design, shares his thoughts on the hesitation surrounding EV adoption: “It’s completely understandable that many people hesitate to switch to EVs, especially with so much conflicting information circulating online.

"However, the experiences of those who have made the transition tell a compelling story: 92% of EV drivers say they would never go back to a petrol vehicle.”

Dunstsan further compares the UK’s situation to Norway, a country that successfully transitioned to EVs through strong government support and leadership.

“The shift away from fossil fuels is inevitable—not just because of the urgent need to address climate change, but because fossil fuels are a finite resource," he adds. "From an energy security standpoint, relying on them is becoming increasingly unsustainable.

"By transitioning to EVs, we’re not just making a choice for the environment but investing in a cleaner, quieter and more efficient future for everyone.”

The road ahead

While the UK’s transition to EVs is underway, widespread consumer hesitancy and infrastructure challenges remain significant hurdles.

With the 2035 deadline approaching, the government may need to reassess its approach, offering greater financial incentives and improving the charging network to ensure a smoother transition for UK motorists.

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