RAC reaction to Ofgem study on electric car affordability

Reacting to a report by Ofgem on the affordability of electric cars, RAC data insight spokesman Rod Dennis said:

“Ofgem’s research chimes with our own which shows that a steadily increasing proportion of drivers plan to get a pure electric car next – 9% of all drivers, up from 6% in 2019 and just 3% a year earlier. But we do know that up-front cost remains a barrier, which is why more than half of drivers (53%) would like to see VAT on zero-emissions cars either cut of abolished entirely, while 48% favour a scrappage scheme to make switching out of a conventionally powered vehicle more affordable.

“While concerns remain over the cost of EVs, prices are coming down and in fact several manufacturers reduced the list price of some of their electric models immediately after the Government announced that the Plug-in Car Grant was being cut. There are also different ways for drivers to make the switch affordably, such as leasing which can be a cost-effective way of getting into an electric car without the worries associated with ownership.

“Aside from helping reduce the impact conventional cars have on air pollution and the environment, a healthy market for new electric cars will also have another major benefit – it will mean more EVs make their way onto the second-hand market, improving affordability of zero-emission models for everyone.”