The results of a survey published by EV infrastructure provider Connected Kerb and research firm CT Group shows the majority of respondents believe the UK should transition fully to EVs in the next 15 years, and the government should roll out charging infrastructure to support this.
In the UK, young people (ages 18-34) are the most supportive of reform. Over two thirds (68%) believe that only EVs should be sold after 2035, while the two other age groups, 35-54 and 55+, support the transition at 55% and 51%, respectively.
Some 87% of UK residents surveyed said they would support the government rolling out the infrastructure for EVs.
What’s more, 89% said they would be encouraged to make their next car purchase an EV if they had access to a space – at home or work – where they could charge.
Dr Chris Pateman-Jones, chief executive of Connected Kerb, said: “This research clearly shows the idea of transitioning away from combustion engines to battery-powered cars is popular.
“Policymakers need to use this insight to further educate and assist the public in transitioning to electric vehicles.
“This includes ensuring there is convenient charging infrastructure available to all people, including those without driveways.”
When people were asked if they support the principle of EVs being the norm, without being reminded of any potential costs, public support was very high (87%).
However, when asked about this support in terms of potential personal financial cost to them, support drops, but the research suggests 38% of residents in the UK would be willing to support a 1% increase in tax to fund EV infrastructure, and 32% would support up to a 5% increase.
Gavin Stollar, managing director of CT Local, part of CT Group, added: “There is a clear demand for electric vehicles but take up is being slowed down by the lack of EV infrastructure.
“This is particularly problematic in areas where there is no off-street parking for residents and local businesses.
“Local highways authorities and other landowners need speed up the roll-out of EV infrastructure to meet demand.”
Read more from CiTTi
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/study-reveals-ev-charging-infrastructure-disparity/
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/bevs-to-cut-uk-carbon-emissions-by-12-study-shows/
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/uk-government-unveils-vision-for-rapid-ev-chargepoint-network/
https://www.cittimagazine.co.uk/funding-boost-for-on-street-residential-ev-charge-points/
