As fuel costs continue to soar, Irish motorists are now more likely to make a move towards green driving. Over half (51% ) of all respondents in a new survey by Carzone, admitted that the recent rise in fuel prices has made them consider switching to an electric vehicle (EV ), despite never considering the switch before.
The research revealed that 57 per cent of motorists are considering changing their car in the next 12 months and of that, half of those polled plan to purchase an electric or hybrid vehicle. That is of course subject to price and availability. Given the increase in fuel costs across the nation, it’s no surprise that 87 per cent of those who plan to purchase an EV cite cheaper running costs as the main reason for considering the switch. The environmental benefits were the second most popular reason to purchase an EV (57% ) and tax incentives were also listed a key factor for 22 per cent.
Those not yet ready to make the switch to an EV cited concern about the expense involved (28% ) and the lack of charging points available in their area (24% ) as the main reasons for not considering moving to an electric model.
There is also some hesitancy amongst 43 per cent of those surveyed when it comes to purchasing a used electric or hybrid vehicle. Of this group, battery life was the lead concern (70% ) followed by the lack of or a shorter warranty (39% ).
The interest in alternative fuel vehicles is certainly on the rise this year, accounting for nearly half (47% ) of new car registrations in 2022. The increase in new powertrain vehicles is also reflected in Carzone research data which highlights that electric vehicles now make up 23% of new car ad views on the site, in comparison with just 9 per cent in 2021. Interestingly, the Most Viewed New Cars on the portal include six electric vehicles, one hybrid, and three diesel models.
While Ireland works on improving its infrastructure to support the goals set out in the climate action plan, there is still some way to go. Whilst the transition to EVs seems to be growing at a steady pace, 3 in 4 (74% ) people feel they are not very well-informed about electric vehicles. Despite this, those surveyed seem to be willing to learn and are looking optimistically at a green future with a whopping 67% planning to drive an electric vehicle by 2030.
Commenting on this research, Karl Connolly, audience manager Carzone said: “As fuel costs continue to spiral, electric cars are looking a whole lot more appealing thanks to lower running costs and ready availability of electricity from charging points."
We have seen a spike in interest for electric vehicles as fuel costs rise and there is now a huge amount of choice for consumers today when it comes to EVs, and this is increasing at a rapid pace. 81 brand new EV model choices were advertised on Carzone in 2021 alone, more than double the choice from 2020.
Whilst the interest is rising, the higher price point for EVs is still a barrier for many along with the lack of charging infrastructure in certain areas. However, the future looks a lot greener for the motoring industry as electric car technology and infrastructure can only improve in the coming years leading up to the government’s 2030 climate action plan goals.
