New research shows that petrol and diesel car drivers are tempted to make the switch to electric vehicles as fuel costs increase

New research by Octopus Electric Vehicles shows that one in two (47 per cent) drivers of petrol and diesel cars are tempted to switch to electric vehicles (EVs) because of cheaper running costs.

According to the research, a litre of petrol can cost more than £1.45 in the UK.

In contrast, charging an EV can cost as little as 7p a kilowatt hour (kWh).

Drivers charging an EV on a clean energy tariff can save up to £1,000 a year compared to a fossil fuel car.

EV Charging Price Plunging
Petrol and diesel car drivers told the researchers they feel “ripped off” by the growing margins pocketed by fuel retailers.

Fiona Howarth, Chief Executive Officer of Octopus Electric Vehicles, said: ‘This research is clear – almost half of the UK’s drivers are ready to get an electric car today, and yet they make up less than a quarter of the cars being sold.

‘Certain laggard car manufacturers may claim drivers aren’t ready for EVs but they underestimate UK drivers’ appreciation for the value, fun and peace of mind electric cars offer.

‘Government policies like the ZEV Mandate are critical to keep driving the manufacturers to bring affordable electric cars to UK drivers. Those manufacturers are grabbing market share, and there’s a race on to be the brands of our future roads.’

Read more: futurenetzero