EV ownership surges in Scotland

author: FutureCar Staff    

In a recent investigation by car finance provider Carmoola, the growing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles in England, Wales, and Scotland was examined. The investigation was prompted by a report indicating that one electric vehicle (EV) was sold every minute in July.

The survey conducted across Great Britain, with 2,202 respondents, revealed that the Scottish population leads the way in driving pure electric vehicles. A significant 5% of Scots claimed to have an EV as their main car. On the other hand, the Welsh were found to be the least likely to own an electric vehicle, with only 1% of those surveyed having an EV as their main vehicle.

Over the past year, car sales have been on the rise, as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Registrations for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) increased by 87.9% to 23,010, resulting in the sale of one new EV every minute in July 2023.

Despite the increased adoption of EVs in the UK, the survey found that only 3% of respondents have an electric vehicle as their main car, while 6% own a hybrid. The UK currently has over 45,737 public charging points, with the majority located in the Greater London region (31.4%). The South East follows with 5,654 charging points (12.4%), and Scotland with 4,073 (8.9%). Surprisingly, even though London has the highest number of charging points, only 2% of Londoners have an EV as their main car, with a preference for hybrid models (9%).

As expected, regions with the fewest public charging points also have the lowest percentage of people adopting EVs.

The survey also revealed that the highest percentage (4%) of electric vehicle ownership as the main car is found among the 45-54 age group, while only 1% of 25 to 34-year-olds own an EV as their main car. In terms of hybrid vehicles, Yorkshire & Humberside has the highest ownership rate (11%), while the North East has the lowest, with 0% of respondents in that region owning a hybrid as their main car.

Aidan Rushby, CEO at Carmoola, commented on the survey results, stating that drivers are primarily concerned with the overall cost of buying a new car. While the increase in vehicle models and choices available in the market will continue to encourage further adoption of EVs, Rushby emphasized the need for additional incentives to promote the purchase of these vehicles. This includes the installation of more charging points and the implementation of allowances to encourage the transition from traditional petrol and diesel models.

The survey was conducted online between July 18-19, 2023, with a total sample size of 2,272 adults. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all adults in Great Britain aged 18 and above.

Source: Zapmap database

ALSO SEE: Roadmap for EV charging infrastructure will require joint effort

FutureCar Staff