New research on the nation’s motor buying intentions reveals that the proportion of drivers owning EVs is set to more than double with just one switch of car.

Currently 7 per cent of drivers say their car is fully electric, but 18 per cent of all drivers say the next car they buy will be an EV.

In contrast, the research for Kwik Fit found that while 59 per cent of drivers say they currently own a petrol-engined car, only a third (30 per cent) plan for their next car to run on petrol. Similarly, 17 per cent of drivers have a diesel car, but only 6 per cent of car buyers say they will opt for a diesel engine next time.

Just over two thirds of drivers have plans to change their vehicle. On average, they expect to do so in 22 months with nearly a third planning to swap their car in the next 12 months.

Kwik Fit’s annual research also looked at the reasons why drivers are not yet considering buying an EV. In previous years the most commonly cited factor has been a restriction on range. This is again the top concern; however, the level of worry is falling. Over a third (35 per cent) of drivers mentioned range in this year’s research, compared to 41 per cent in 2023. This year, the second most stated concern by drivers (also 35 per cent) is that they would not be able to charge an EV at home. This is up from sixth most common factor last year, perhaps suggesting that increasing numbers of drivers are more seriously considering the practicalities of whether an EV could fit into their own circumstances.

ZEV mandate uncertainty is already having an impact on some drivers’ buying intentions, and clarity has long been a bone of contention with the SMMT. Thirty per cent of drivers planning to buy an EV next say that the decision to consult on relaxing the mandate has made them less likely to opt for an EV as their next car. The uncertainty is even having an impact on some drivers who have already switched with 25 per cent of EV owners questioned said the consultation has made it less likely that their next car will be an EV.

Overall, drivers are broadly split over whether the government should stick to the ZEV Mandate.

Dan Joyce, operations director at Kwik Fit, says: “This research shows how quickly the make up of the UK car parc could change as people buy their next vehicle. Over the last six years Kwik Fit’s research has shown a consistent rise in the number of drivers planning to switch to an EV or hybrid. It’s really interesting that more than a quarter of those planning to buy a car in the next year intend to go fully electric.”

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