British drivers refuse to move to electric cars as major brands face 'a dangerous cliff edge'
Millions of drivers have turned their backs on electric vehicles, stating that they will never ditch their petrol and diesel cars for a cleaner alternative.
New research has found that 19 per cent of future car buyers believe they will never make the transition to electric cars.
Many have cited issues around a lack of exposure to electric vehicles, as their friends and families do not own one.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
The research found that 43 per cent of the UK public have never driven or been a passenger in an electric vehicle, with only 21 per cent of this group considering an EV.
GETTY
New research has found that some motorists have rejected electric vehicles
This could spell trouble for the Government as it looks to increase the proportion of electric vehicles on the market as it approaches 2035.
The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate states that manufacturers must have a minimum amount of sales come from electric cars, starting from 28 per cent by the end of the year.
This target will continue to rise over the next 10 years, reaching 80 per cent by the end of the decade, and 100 per cent in 2035.
Between 2030 and 2035, only new electric and hybrid cars will be sold by manufacturers, while all new cars after 2035 will be zero emission.
Despite the fears around EV uptake, 46 per cent of those who have been a passenger in an electric car said they would consider moving to one.
Andrew Miller, CEO at Motability Operations, said: "The UK car market is approaching a period of strong tension. Now more than ever, it is vital that those who can benefit from the shift to electric feel supported and ready to switch.
"Failing to do so will not only place manufacturers on a dangerous cliff edge but will mean many drivers are unprepared for the shift as the availability of new ICE vehicles declines."
The research, from Motability, noted that hybrids offer a stepping stone for drivers who want to move away from petrol and diesel cars, but cannot commit to an electric vehicle yet.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
・UK could see launch of self-driving cars under global expansion plans from 'China's Google'
・New driving laws and penalties could be rolled out to combat 'epidemic' of road offences
・Nissan launches popular electric car for just £22,995 and could save £1,500 more within weeks
Almost half of hybrid drivers who are looking to buy a new vehicle said they would be likely to choose an electric car in the next three years.
Vicki Hoban, Para Equestrian and EV driver on the Motability Scheme, acknowledged that there were several things that she needed to get used to when she first received the car.
The most noticeable changes included "working out how accessible the vehicles are", as well as charging and using the public network.
She added: "It can be off-putting if you don’t have previous experience or access to the right support.
MOTABILITY
Motability helps people with disabilities lease cars, with many now choosing electric vehicles
"We also need to ensure that points are available at all fuel stations to enhance convenience and accessibility for disabled people."
The data also found that electric cars are seen as exclusive, high-tech vehicles, with 51 per cent saying the term "technologically advanced" was the most suitable way to describe EVs.
Other terms included "familiar" (50 per cent), "good value for money" (47 per cent) and "luxurious" (33 per cent).
Ian Plummer, commercial director at Autotrader, said research proved that most people who have switched did not want to return to petrol or diesel vehicles.
He concluded: "Motability Operations' electric test drives and demonstrations are important for building confidence and more industry players should offer this, from weekend test drives to unbiased information – there’s a very clear role for industry to play in allaying fears and explaining EVs."