Insight from Auto Trader, SMMT and ChargeUK dispels EV misconceptions and empowers consumers to make informed, eco-friendly choices.
Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform, ChargeUK, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) joined forces in a new initiative designed to combat misinformation about electric cars.
The group has created a collection of user-friendly, simplified facts offering a more balanced and data-backed view of owning and driving electric cars. These facts clarify points such as how electric cars are greener, are no more likely to catch fire than an ICE car and that the electric range and charging point availability are better than some might think.
The group has confirmed that the data points will be regularly reviewed and updated, with new versions issued when required. The Department for Transport endorsed the findings.
In February, the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee published a Report titled ‘EV strategy: rapid recharge needed’. The report highlighted the confusing messages about EVs in the media and called for “a ‘go-to’ source of comprehensive, clear and balanced information so consumers can make informed decisions about their vehicles.”
“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 work by industry is vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero-emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it.” – Lilian Greenwood, Future of Roads Minister, UK.
Furter research conducted by Auto Trader in April this year showed that mistruths repeated in various media sources were impacting consumer confidence in electric cars.
72% of consumers were aware of the false “electric cars catch fire” narrative, and 44% incorrectly believed it was true, making them less likely to go electric. Similarly, 70% had heard that “EVs are not cheaper to run,” and 33% agreed that they believed this to be accurate, making them less likely to buy an electric car.
Retailer sentiment shows a significant lack of confidence in stocking and selling EVs. The share of retailers stocking electric cars on Auto Trader stalled at around 35% in both 2023 and 2024, contrasting a previous significant year-on-year jump (57%) in 2022.
Separate research from Auto Trader shows that 46% of retailers believe a lack of consumer confidence in the technology is a significant barrier to adoption.
There’s an apparent disconnect between perception and reality as, despite consumer and retailer nervousness, 83% of current electric car owners said they would repurchase electric.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, stated: “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, stated, “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 key to helping more people understand what’s involved in switching to an EV and why there’s no need to hold back.”
“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 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.” – Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader.
The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, integral to growth, the delivery of net zero and the UK as a global trade hub. It contributes to US$ 117n turnover and US$27.7bn in value added to the UK economy. It invests around US$5.05bn annually in R&D. 198,000 people are employed directly in manufacturing, and some 813,000 across the wider automotive industry.
Many of these automotive manufacturing jobs are outside London and the South-East, with around 13% higher wages than the UK average. The sector accounts for 13.9% of total UK exports of goods, with more than 140 countries importing UK-produced vehicles, generating US$145bn of trade in total automotive imports and exports.
The UK manufactures almost every type of vehicle, from cars to vans, taxis, trucks, buses and coaches, as well as specialist and off-highway vehicles, supported by more than 2,500 component providers and some of the world’s most skilled engineers. In addition, the sector has vibrant aftermarket and remanufacturing industries. The automotive industry also supports jobs in other key sectors – including advertising, chemicals, finance, logistics and steel.
