26% of UK respondents expect to buy an alternative fuelled car by 2024

26% of 2,000 UK car buyers are expecting to purchase an electric or hybrid vehicle within six years, 45% of which cited that electric is better for the environment, according to a study conducted by Motorway.co.uk. The inquiry showed that 11% are planning on selecting an electric car while 15% are prepared to choose a hybrid model.

Additionally, 34% said they would transition to electric as they believe these vehicles are cheaper to run, 28% stated that the more advanced technology attracted them, while 18% think they will offer a better driving experience.

Just over a quarter of respondents said they would remain with traditional fuel types for their next purchase. 52% highlighted that inadequate charging infrastructure, including not being able to charge from home, is preventing from switching to electric.

Over a third of these participants said that electric cars are still too expensive compared to fossil-fuelled options and just over a quarter admitted that they did not know enough about electric cars and the technology.

The data suggested differences in attitudes between older and younger respondents. 13% of 18-34-year-olds expecting to buy an electric car next, compared to 10% of 35-54-year-olds and 9% of car buyers aged 55 and over.

Older demographics also revealed a strong interest in hybrid fuel types. 19% of respondents aged 55 or over confirmed that they would choose a hybrid vehicle as their next purchase, which was also reflected by 13% of 18-34-year-olds.

Alex Buttle, director of car buying comparison website Motorway.co.uk, said: “The soaring demand presents huge opportunities for the car industry, which is showing significant signs of stress while battling to roll out affordable AFVs fast enough. But it could also leave the Government with serious issues if it does not move fast enough to build the necessary charging and power infrastructure to handle the impact of electric cars.”

More information and a full copy of the findings are available on the <%$Linker:2External<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-16"?><dictionary />000link-external websiteMotorway website linkfalsehttps://motorway.co.uk/blog/2018/2/28/electric-car-demand-to-surge-by-2024falsefalse%>.