The Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) Scotland has released the results of a recent survey of its members, which has found that manufacturers must reduce the cost of buying electric vehicles to accelerate the switch away from fossil fuels.
In its 2021/2 review of its members, the organisation found that over 83% said that purchase costs were a major factor in choosing an electric vehicle, with 50% wanting to see new electric vehicle (EV) prices reduced. Over 43% say they want to see rapid development and growth of Scotland’s EV charging infrastructure, which EVA Scotland supports and is calling on national and local government and the charge point supply industry to respond.
The results of the survey come just as the Scottish Government has published a new draft vision statement for public EV charging in Scotland. The new vision aims to place people and businesses first, outlining the accessible, affordable and reliable public network required for the future. It will build on existing provision and seek to deliver more of the right chargers in the right places.
To do so, a new public EV charging fund will be launched in Scotland that seeks to attract investment from the private sector. The fund will provide up to £60 million to local authorities over the next four years, with approximately half of the funding anticipated to be invested from the private sector.
The survey also found strong support for EVs in a variety of areas. Battery range was one of the key factors in choosing their current EV according to 63% of drivers, but only 14% of those surveyed thought that EVs were not suitable for long journeys. What’s more, over 96% of respondents said they were very satisfied (78%) or satisfied (18%) with their EV. And looking ahead, 68% were likely or very likely to consider an EV for their next vehicle.
The results of the EVA Scotland survey also support the findings of a recent Zap-Map poll, which not only found high satisfaction among EV drivers, but also that many are increasingly confident about driving long distances. Indeed, the poll found that more than 90% of drivers are extremely happy with their EV and would not want to replace it with a petrol or diesel car. In contrast, less than 1% wanted a return to a petrol or diesel vehicle. The data highlights the positive impact of EVs on drivers who have benefited from a great driving experience, low running costs and low emissions.
Commenting on the results of the EVA Scotland survey, Neil Swanson, Director at EVA Scotland, said: “We firmly believe that these results show tremendous confidence in the future of all-electric vehicles as the way forward in our global battle against climate change and, if manufacturers address the current higher costs of buying an EV, the current rate of change from fossil fuel vehicles will accelerate even more rapidly.
“Members also want to see further development and growth of Scotland’s EV charging infrastructure, which EVA Scotland supports and is calling on national and local government and the charge-point supply industry to respond. The survey clearly shows that electric vehicle drivers across Scotland are unanimous in their commitment to, and expectations for, the future of EVs as the preferred mode of transportation.”
There are now over 30,000 licensed vehicles in Scotland classed as ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs), with the majority being either a pure battery or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
“The shift from ICE to electric vehicles is going to be one of the largest examples of public or private policy implementation of the next decade. EV drivers’ associations play an instrumental role in providing a support network for individuals using electric modes of transport and promoting the benefits of the electrification of transport for our environment, our health and our economy,” Swanson continued.
“As the voice of electric vehicle drivers in Scotland, EVA Scotland understands the importance role the EV community plays in policy decisions. Supporting the Scottish government and Transport Scotland towards net zero carbon emissions and the incredible work pioneered by local authorities is our main objective and what we will continue to do.”
