A new initiative to combat misinformation surrounding electric vehicles has been created by Auto Trader, ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The three have committed to promote facts about electric cars, endorsed by the Department for Transport and refute myths such as “electric vehicles are more likely to catch fire” and “electric cars are not cheaper to run”.

In February, the House of Lords’ Environment and Climate Change Committee published a Report: EV strategy: rapid recharge needed that highlighting the confusing messages that exist in the media towards EVs and called for a ‘go-to’ source of comprehensive, clear and balanced information.”

Further research conducted by Auto Trader in April this year showed that misinformation repeated in various media sources were impacting consumer confidence in electric cars, with 72 per cent of consumers aware of the false “electric cars catch fire” narrative and 44 per cent incorrectly believing it’s true. Similarly, 70 per cent had heard that “EVs are not cheaper to run” with 33 per cent agreeing.

Retailer sentiment shows a significant lack of confidence in stocking and selling EVs, with the share of retailers stocking electric cars on Auto Trader stalling at around 35 per cent in both 2023 and 2024, contrasting a previous significant year-on-year jump in 2022. Separate research from Auto Trader shows that 46 per cent of retailers believe a lack of consumer confidence in the technology is a significant barrier to adoption.

Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK said: “ChargeUK members are rolling out the infrastructure to support the transition to Electric Vehicles. A new charge point goes in the ground every 25 minutes on average and our members are committed to spending at least £6bn through to 2030 to ensure the infrastructure stays ahead of demand. Clear, concise, accurate information is key to helping more people understand what’s involved in switching to an EV and why there’s no need to hold back.”

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