Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform, ChargeUK, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have teamed up to address misinformation about electric cars.
They have developed a collection of user-friendly, simplified facts that provide a more balanced and evidence-based perspective on owning and driving electric vehicles. These facts clarify essential points, such as the environmental benefits of electric cars, their safety in terms of fire risk compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, and the accessibility of charging points as well as electric range capabilities.
The initiative ensures that these data points will be regularly reviewed and updated, with new versions released as needed. This information has the endorsement of the Department for Transport.
In February, the House of Commons called for a reliable source of comprehensive, clear, and balanced information to help consumers make informed decisions about their vehicles.
Further research conducted by Auto Trader in April of this year revealed that misinformation spread across various media sources affects consumer confidence in electric cars. According to the findings, 72% of consumers are aware of the false narrative that “electric cars catch fire,” with 44% mistakenly believing it to be accurate, decreasing their likelihood of purchasing an electric vehicle. Similarly, 70% of respondents have heard the claim that “EVs are not cheaper to run,” and 33% agree with this statement, making them less likely to consider buying an electric car.
Retailer sentiment indicates a notable lack of confidence in stocking and selling electric vehicles (EVs). The percentage of retailers offering electric cars on Auto Trader has stalled at around 35% in both 2023 and 2024, in contrast to a significant year-on-year increase of 57% in 2022. Separate research from Auto Trader reveals that 46% of retailers believe that a lack of consumer confidence in EV technology is a major barrier to its adoption.
There is a clear disconnect between perception and reality: despite the nervousness among consumers and retailers, 83% of current electric car owners say they would choose to buy an electric vehicle again.
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Zero emission vehicles will drive our journey to net zero, which is why this Government is committed to accelerating the transition.
“Ensuring consumers have clear, accurate information when deciding what kind of car to buy is essential. This industry work is vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero-emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it.”
Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader, commented: “Electrification is a significant change, and with change comes uncertainty and confusion. That’s why we’re trying to help share more balanced and fact-based narratives with both retailers and consumers to give everyone confidence in navigating their electric journey.
“Often, this comes down to the fear of the unknown, and this is clear when consumers tell us how much they love their electric cars. We’d encourage anyone unsure about electric vehicles to do their own research with unbiased, fact-based content – or better yet, why not find an electric car driver and chat with them. And if you haven’t driven one yet – do it, they are really changing the car game.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Thanks to manufacturer investment, drivers have a massive choice of EV models, and picking the right one for their needs depends on having facts, not fiction. More than a million motorists have already gone electric and been delighted by their decision, with many benefiting from lower running costs, an outstanding driving experience and a smaller carbon footprint. But making the switch can be daunting for some, given the need to consider charging and driving so a single source of truth can avoid confusion. And that truth is that the time to go electric is now.”
Vicky Read, CEO of ChargeUK, said, “ChargeUK members are rolling out the infrastructure to support the transition to Electric Vehicles. On average, a new charge point goes in the ground every 25 minutes, and our members are committed to spending at least £6 billion through 2030 to ensure the infrastructure stays ahead of demand.
“But our work involves more than just providing the infrastructure; we must challenge the myths and misconceptions that hold some drivers back from adopting EVs. Not least because the research suggests they are missing out – as per Auto Trader’s findings, more than eight in 10 electric drivers say they would never go back, with the vast majority reporting a seamless charging experience.
“Clear, concise, accurate information is vital to helping more people understand what’s involved in switching to an EV and why holding back is unnecessary.
“It’s great to see various organisations come together to ensure consumers have access to easily digestible facts. ChargeUK is proud to have contributed to this work.”
A summary of the facts can be found here.
We encourage all consumers to know this information when considering an electric vehicle.
