Electric vehicle drivers are able to save up to £500 per year over conventionally fuelled models, according to new research by smart charging provider NewMotion. A survey of more than 5,000 NewMotion customers across Europe revealed not only cost savings potential, but also buying and usage habits of those who have chosen to go electric.
The typical EV driver is male and over the age of 41 according to the results, with both attributes accounting for 82% of those surveyed. More than 90% of those questioned are part of a couple too – married, partner, or in a relationship – and, given that statistic, an unsurprising majority of 94% live in a household with two or more people.
More than half of EV drivers user their car for the commute to work, and a quarter estimate that they save up to 60% on the monthly cost of running a car, compared to a petrol or diesel alternative. A knock on effect of driving an EV is that owners are more conscious of the way they drive, with a change towards more efficient driving seen in 48% of those surveyed.
The change to an electric car corresponds with other more sustainable lifestyle changes according to NewMotion. Across Europe, 59% of EV drivers surveyed recycled all household waste, almost 40% have solar panels installed at their homes, and more than 20% compost their food waste and collect rain water.
NewMotion calculates that the savings reported back in the research account for a cut in costs of up to £500 per year. This is based on two comparably sized cars from the Nissan range – the all-electric Leaf and conventionally powered Pulsar – both family-sized hatchbacks.
Despite EVs costing more to buy, and the potential for additional investment in things such as a home charging unit, charging costs are considerably less than refuelling prices on the whole, as well as maintenance, insurance, and tax costs – before any government subsidies are also considered.
Sander van der Veen, UK Country Manager, NewMotion said: “The EV market is changing dramatically. With the arrival of affordable EV cars, increased government subsidies and investment into infrastructure, we’re starting to see the beginning of the electric vehicle revolution that will only gain in momentum throughout 2017.
“Consumer demand is growing, and as societies continue to become more and more urbanised, EV is a fantastic way for individuals to contribute to a more sustainable, longer term form of personal transport.”
In future, 70% of EV drivers would like to see a sort of Air BnB for electric cars, allowing owners greater freedom to hire out their car. The survey also found that 60% of drivers would like to see automated charge points available, with screens that tell them how much energy they are using, and how far their car will travel.
