Being greener and more eco-aware is big news and increasingly on our radars. Each of us are generally trying to find a way for us to contribute to reducing our carbon footprint. But what are the reasons that discourage us from personally investing in one specific sector – electric cars?
What does the research suggest?
There has been some research recently conducted by Ford that indicates that a proportion of the UK “aren’t sold” on electric cars. Plus, there’s a large group who are unsure what these new cars and the future of automobiles means for them. Ford advises that drivers may not know enough about electric vehicles (EVs), which could influence their decision making when looking for their next car.
While we have a target to reduce emissions and increase EVs, this change isn’t going to happen overnight. But the target is 2030 – barely eight years away, so what roadblocks need to be removed to increase the number of EVs on the road in that time?
Understanding the technology
EVs run a different way to combustion engines, and people are still building their understanding of how the technology works. It’s also important for drivers to understand the difference between the types of EVs, so they can make informed decisions about what works for them.
How far can you go in an EV?
Ford found that on average consumers believed a full EV only had a range of 149 miles. In reality, some of the new models hitting the market can travel over 350 miles on single charge.
What about recharging?
There are serious concerns about charge points and their accessibility. This discourages a lot of people from seriously considering EVs for their next car. Especially for drivers in rural areas, there is a worry that there not enough points available, and that there wasn’t a strong supporting infrastructure for EVs. The Ford research did indicate that if the government supported investment, there would be an increase in the number of drivers who would seriously consider an EV for their next car – which makes the Ofgem news really promising!
Where do we stand currently?
The Ford research indicated that just one in 10 would consider a EV for their next car, and one in 5 never intend to by electric. But the research also shows that there are positive signs that people want to know more and that there is an appetite for change.
Ford believe that having an EV “doesn’t mean compromise.” And with the ever-improving technology in the cars, the investment from Ofgem in the charging network and growing support from employers for installing charge points at home and work, it is looking more positive about challenging these roadblocks and meeting our target.
If you have more questions about EVs and charging points, why not check out our FAQ page where we have collated some helpful information for you.
