Petrol and diesel cars tougher to repair than EVs as fears over greener vehicles falls 'dramatically'

The AA, which holds the largest database of EV breakdowns in the country, has now joined the "Electric Cars: The Facts" campaign alongside Autotrader, ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

The cross-industry initiative, endorsed by the Department for Transport, aims to tackle common misconceptions about electric vehicle ownership through data-backed information.

The survey found older drivers expressed the greatest reservations, with 56 per cent of those aged 75 and above voicing concerns about potential breakdowns.

Regional variations were also apparent, with the North East emerging as the most apprehensive area, where 52 per cent of respondents shared worries about roadside repairs.

A gender gap was evident in the findings too, with women slightly more likely to express concern at 46 per cent compared to 41 per cent of men.

Battery health also featured prominently among consumer anxieties, yet AA data indicates that the 12-volt battery in conventional petrol and diesel vehicles is actually a more common reason for callouts than electric car batteries.

An SMMT survey of aftermarket businesses provided further reassurance, revealing that 81.2 per cent of UK workshops are already equipped to service electric vehicles.

Edmund King, AA president, said: "For many drivers, the switch to electric is a big step, and some are understandably hesitant. However, one thing prospective electric drivers don't need to worry about is breaking down.

"The AA has the biggest database of EV breakdowns in the UK, and our data shows EVs running out of charge is a tiny proportion of EV breakdowns and has fallen dramatically since 2015."

He explained how the organisation fixes a greater proportion of EVs at the roadside than petrol and diesel cars, with only a small number needing to be towed instead.

The quarterly campaign update also highlighted significant progress in charging infrastructure, with public charge points across the UK now totalling 87,796.

Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers have increased to 17,935, up from 17,132 previously recorded, according to the latest Zapmap data.

The cost barrier for prospective EV buyers has also diminished considerably, with the upfront price difference between new electric and petrol vehicles narrowing to just 17 per cent, a notable reduction from 25 per cent in January 2025.

Budget-conscious motorists now have greater choice too, with 38 brand new electric models available with a recommended retail price below £30,000, Mr King shared. These updated figures form part of the data reviewed and refreshed every quarter as part of The Facts initiative.

Erin Baker, Autotrader's editorial director, said: "It's fantastic to have the AA join our campaign to make sure that drivers have the right information to make informed choices. Their data shows EVs can offer high levels of reliability, far more than many drivers may expect.

"While electric cars might not be right for all buyers right now - if you can charge off-street, it could be a great option - we hope The Facts help provide confidence for those that are considering going electric."

Meanwhile, Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather explained that the report highlighted the reliability of EVs.

The minister noted how the Government is investing over £7.5billion to support the transition, including £2billion for the Electric Car Grant, which has helped nearly 50,000 people with savings of up to £3,750 on new EV purchases.