Sustainability is at the forefront of consumers’ minds with 93 percent of those recently surveyed saying they have made changes to be more sustainable, these include recycling (92% ), and shopping locally (72% ). That is according to a Carzone survey.
In total, 89 per cent admit that they would like to do more to reduce their carbon footprint. Making the switch to green driving seems like the likely next step for many of these consumers, and half (56% ) of those surveyed have considered purchasing an EV, that’s according to this new research. Seems a high figure, but the key word is ‘considered’ - but for the majority of the 56 percent, it wasn’t an affordable option today.
The survey findings say that the main concern cited by 69 per cent of motorists in Ireland when thinking about switching to electric is the initial purchase cost. Availability and ease of charging points as well as range anxiety were also highlighted as key concerns for 66 per cent and 60 per cent of motorists surveyed respectively.
Whilst the upfront cost for an electric vehicle is a barrier for many motorists, more than half (54% ) say they would be more likely to consider an EV in the future as they become more affordable.
However, cost is also a big motivating factor for purchasing an EV with half (53% ) of motorists saying cheaper running costs is the main attraction to purchase an EV, that’s closely followed by the environmental impact (30% ) of driving an EV.
The interest in EV’s is certainly on the rise, despite the perceived high cost. 1 in 5 new cars viewed on Carzone in the first half of 2022 were electric compared with 1 in 10 new cars in the latter half of 2021.
Hybrid vehicles have also grown in popularity in the Irish market and are another option for those who would like to lower their carbon footprint but may have some range anxiety. Two thirds of motorists (67% ) feel that purchasing a hybrid vehicle is a steppingstone in the journey to getting a fully electric car.
