Sustainability is at the forefront of consumers’ minds with 93 per cent of those recently surveyed saying they have made changes to be more sustainable - including recycling (92 per cent ), and shopping locally (72 per cent ).
According to a Carzone survey, 89 per cent admit they would like to do more to reduce their carbon footprint. Making the switch to green driving seems the likely next step for many of these consumers, and 56 per cent of those surveyed have considered purchasing an EV. It seems a high figure, but the key word is “considered” as for the majority of the 56 per cent, it was not an affordable option today.
The survey findings say 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.
While the upfront cost for an electric vehicle is a barrier for many motorists, more than half (54 per cent ) 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 those purchasing an EV with 53 per cent of motorists saying cheaper running costs is the main attraction, closely followed by the environmental impact (30 per cent ) of driving an EV.
The interest in EVs is certainly on the rise, despite the perceived high cost. One in five new cars viewed on Carzone in the first half of 2022 was electric compared with one 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 per cent ) feel that purchasing a hybrid vehicle is a stepping stone on the journey to getting a fully electric car.
