Report: Government incentives drive surge in EV interest with 1 in 3 drivers ready to make the switch

A new study commissioned by Renault has found that a key driving force behind EV adoption is government grants. A third of UK responders stated that the new incentives have made them interested in electric cars.

In the capital city of London, 54 percent of those polled said they would consider a battery-powered car, thanks to the Electric Car Grant (ECG) launched by the government in the summer.

The result also shows that younger adults between 17 and 34 years are overwhelmingly more likely to dump petrol-powered cars in the next two years. However, only 27 percent of senior citizens (aged 55 and above) admitted they might jump ship. The latter demographic rated greater driving range, more charging points, and lower starting prices as their main concerns.

On the dealer side, 48 percent agreed that the new ECG can meaningfully boost EV sales in the UK. However, 28 percent believed the grant would negatively impact the used EV market.

The data also shows that only 46 percent of women are open to buying an electric car in the next two years, compared to 63 percent of men. The female factor in lower prices and the availability of used EVs before making a purchasing decision.

Renault sponsored the survey as it prepares to open a showroom dedicated to EVs. The company’s four electric models qualify for the ECG.