Polarising is a much over used word these days, however, one circumstance where it is perfectly justified is in relation to electric cars. A study produced by the AA n the UK shows just how opposite the views are of early EV adopters and die-hard petrol-heads.

According to the research, 22% of those surveyed say they totally reject EV technology and say they will never even consider buying or driving and electric car. Meanwhile 20% say they have serious doubts about the technology and are unlikely to switch to EV for their next car. 

However, carmakers and authorities may be encouraged by the fact that 52% of drivers say they are likely to go EV in the next five years. The rest, between 6 and 7% are those who have already switched to EV. 

The survey also shows that there is a general lack of knowledge when it comes to EV transition: 

• Many drivers don’t appreciate that as the ban nears, fewer and fewer internal combustion engine (ICE) cars will be available for sale.
• Only 7% think the sale of all petrol and diesel cars including used cars will be banned.
• One third think they can get a manual EV despite all EVs being automatic. 
• 73% of ICE drivers have no experience of EVs at all. The survey also found that: 

• Even among EV adopters they recognise that EVs are not for everyone yet.
• EVs make up only 2% of the second-hand car market in the UK, though this segment is seeing significant growth. 
• EV drivers feel they have been abandoned by government, fragmented infrastructure still an issue. 
• 40% of drivers do not have access to home charging. 

Jakob Pfaudler, AA CEO, said: “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. 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.”