Experts are calling on the DVSA to reform driving tests to accommodate the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on British roads. With over 260,000 EV registrations in 2022 – a 40% increase on the previous year – campaigners argue that the current test format is outdated.
LeaseElectricCar.co.uk has launched a safety campaign highlighting the need for more learners to take tests in EVs. As the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales approaches, the demand for manual gearbox tests is expected to decline. The experts suggest that automatic-only tests could become the norm, as electric cars do not have manual transmissions.
However, there are significant barriers to this shift. Many driving instructors lack access to EVs due to high costs and concerns over charging infrastructure and range anxiety. The Government has pledged £1.5 billion towards 300,000 new charging points, but experts say more must be done to encourage instructors to switch.
Tim Alcock from LeaseElectricCar.co.uk said: “The practical driving test will one day soon have to be reformed to suit more pupils who are learning in electric vehicles. The DVSA will need to assess learner drivers’ understanding of things like economic use of battery power and charging techniques, as well as demonstrating braking and accelerating with a single driving pedal.”
Another concern is the quietness of EVs, which poses a risk to pedestrians. Learners will need extra vigilance and hazard awareness to compensate for the lack of engine noise. The campaign urges the DVSA to update test criteria to include these skills.
