Many drivers of petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK are significantly misinformed about electric cars, according to new research. This widespread lack of understanding is causing people to hold back from making the shift to electric motoring, as reported by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) think tank, which commissioned the study.
Survey Highlights Knowledge Gaps
A YouGov survey of 1,002 non-electric car drivers found that 51 per cent could correctly answer only two or fewer out of 10 statements about EVs. Among this ill-informed group, just 5 per cent expressed a desire for an EV as their next car, in stark contrast to the 63 per cent of those who scored at least eight out of 10.
Common Misconceptions Uncovered
A notable misconception revealed was that 46 per cent of drivers wrongly believed electric vehicles are more prone to catching fire than traditionally fuelled cars, despite various studies demonstrating the opposite. This highlights the impact of misinformation on public perception.
Expert Insights on the Issue
ECIU head of transport Colin Walker commented: “A constant stream of misinformation is skewing petrol car drivers’ knowledge of EVs. With two-thirds not knowing that EVs are cheaper to own and run than petrol cars, it’s clear that many are holding back from making the shift to EVs.”
He added: “The latest instability in the Middle East is once again illustrating how using oil to power our cars leaves the UK’s drivers exposed to international markets over which we have no control. While petrol car drivers face paying higher prices at the pump, EV drivers will continue to be able to drive their cars for as little as 2p per mile.”
Political and Industry Responses
Labour MP Perran Moon, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group on EVs, stated: “The more misinformed you are, the less likely you are to make the switch to an EV. We need to see robust action from the Government, industry and media to dispel the myths of misinformation and to ensure that drivers are equipped with the facts when deciding on their next purchase.”
A House of Lords committee report in 2024 accused the then-Conservative government of failing to demonstrate sufficient urgency in tackling the scale of misinformation about EVs. The current Labour Government has pledged to outlaw sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030, with only zero-emission models – which generally means pure electrics – permitted to be bought from 2035.
Survey Methodology and Broader Implications
Research company YouGov surveyed 1,002 UK drivers of non-EV cars between 25 November and 3 December last year. The findings underscore the critical need for improved public education and policy initiatives to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation in the UK.
