British drivers uncertain over electric car switch with millions hesitant to ditch petrol and diesel

The latest consumer survey highlights growing hesitation about the switch to electrification, despite ongoing discussions about sustainability and reduced running costs.

The findings suggest that confidence in committing to EVs remains elusive for many drivers, even as the automotive industry continues its push towards electrification.

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This upward trend in uncertainty comes at a critical time for the UK's electric vehicle transition.

The primary barrier deterring potential EV buyers is the high initial purchase price, which concerns 59 per cent of respondents - a substantial rise from 42 per cent in 2024.

Access to charging infrastructure continues to trouble 62 per cent of motorists, though this represents a modest improvement from 68 per cent last year.

Additionally, more than half of drivers express worries about charging costs, whilst just under half (48 per cent) remain concerned about range limitations.

These financial and practical considerations appear to be outweighing the environmental benefits and potential long-term savings associated with electric vehicles.

The combination of these factors suggests that addressing infrastructure and affordability remains crucial for accelerating EV adoption across the UK.

Despite these reservations, 53 per cent of motorists still intend to purchase an electric vehicle within the next five years, whilst seven per cent remain undecided about their plans.

However, over one-quarter of respondents stated they would never buy an EV - representing a five per cent increase over two years.

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Drew Chapman, Bridgestone's UK and Ireland consumer sales director, acknowledged the complex challenges facing the transition.

He said: "Our research tells us that while the appetite for EVs remains strong, however, the confidence to commit is still not quite there for many."

The expert emphasised Bridgestone's commitment to simplifying the journey and making the transition "easier, more accessible and less confusing" for motorists.

Chapman highlighted Bridgestone's role in supporting the transition through advanced tyre technology: "What really matters to us is leading the way in future mobility and ensuring that motorists are benefiting from our most advanced tyre technology with 'EV Ready' products."

There are more than one million electric cars on the road across the UK, with the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate expected to boost this number further.

The mandate outlines measures for manufacturers to ensure that they have a minimum percentage of new registrations come from EVs. By the end of 2025, it must be 28 per cent.

This will continue to rise over the coming years, before reaching 80 per cent at the end of the decade and 100 per cent in 2035.

From 2030, only electrified vehicles will remain on sale, including electric cars, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and certain plug-in hybrids, as clarified by Prime Minister Keir Starmer earlier this year.