The AA has launched the UK’s first EV Readiness Index, designed to track how prepared drivers are to make the switch to electric vehicles.
The quarterly barometer, unveiled this month, highlights the factors that continue to influence drivers’ decisions and shows that while interest is growing, the conditions for mass adoption are not yet in place.
Drawing on AA data and external sources, the Index assesses eight critical factors including the cost of new and used EVs, insurance costs, home charging and charger installation, the price of public charging, access to chargepoints, concerns about running out of charge, and roadside repair rates.
Taken together, these indicators have produced a UK EV Readiness Rating of 47.5 out of 100, suggesting that while EVs are a viable option for some, most drivers remain hesitant.
“Drivers tell us they’re excited about going electric and they love the tech, but they’re also confused and cautious,” explained Edmund King OBE, AA President.
“Our Index shows that upfront costs and charging access are still major concerns. Battery health and resale values are also issues for some.”
To support the transition, the AA is calling for more targeted incentives for used EVs, a reduction in VAT on on-street charging, faster planning and better signage for public infrastructure, and clearer factual information campaigns.
While the Government’s Electric Car Grant, currently offering up to £3,750 for EVs priced under £37,000, has been welcomed, drivers’ reactions suggest it will not be enough on its own.
Polling of nearly 15,000 AA members shows that 38 per cent of drivers still consider EVs too expensive, even with the grant.
Almost a quarter say they will never buy an EV, while one in five drivers buy only used cars, meaning the scheme does not help them.
Only five per cent of respondents said the grant has made them consider an EV, while just one per cent were already buying one and intend to use the grant.
However, six per cent of drivers overall are now considering an EV as a result of the scheme, a figure that rises to 10 per cent among those aged 35 to 44, and 12 per cent among 18 to 24-year-olds.
Given that just four per cent of drivers currently own an EV, this could mark a significant increase in adoption if intentions translate into purchases.
When asked what alternative incentives would most influence them, drivers placed greatest importance on a grant for used EVs, removing VAT on second-hand purchases, and offering interest-free loans.
Others suggested guarantees on battery life, free or subsidised home charger installation, and scrapping what some described as the “comical luxury car tax” on EVs.
Access to local charging remains a key frustration for many, with one driver noting: “My local council providing an actual charging infrastructure. I use non-reservable on-street parking, and there is nowhere nearby to charge a car.”
King concluded that the switch to EVs should be seen as part of automotive evolution rather than revolution, and that the Index shows there is still some way to go before the majority of drivers are ready to plug in.
“Cost of new EVs is still a major stumbling block, but we’re confident the readiness rating will increase with more chargers, less expensive products, targeted incentives and better information,” he said.
The AA will now track EV readiness on a quarterly basis, working with government, industry and its members to ensure that no driver is left behind in the electric revolution.
