Consumer demand for EVs set to accelerate

The demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is set to skyrocket across Europe by 2025, according to the latest car buyer survey on EV uptake.

The study, which was carried out by Element Energy and released today by the Platform for Electromobility, polled 14,000 people across seven countries – France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain and the UK. These countries make up approximately 80% of total new passenger car registrations in the EU, EFTA and UK combined.

The results reveal a profound change in consumer preference, with more than two-thirds of respondents indicating that they already own or have considered buying an EV.

While the level of uptake will differ from country to country, overall consumer demand for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) – which was approximately 5% of total demand in 2020 – is expected to become greater than that of any other powertrain by 2025.

Demand for BEVs will increase substantially over the next decade, driven by falling battery prices which both reduce upfront costs and improve range. Upfront cost was identified as the most influential factor in consumer powertrain decision, with running cost, driving range, and access to charging being secondary factors.

The study also shows that access to charging is not currently seen as a barrier to EV demand. Although consumers without home-charging access are on average 12% less likely to buy a BEV than those with home charging, 85% of new car buyers have access to off-street parking, with 59% having access to private off-street parking. As the market develops, deployment of public charge points will have to keep pace to ensure a successful switch to electromobility.

For detailed information, read the full report and/or press release from the Platform for Electromobility. To arrange an interview with Amelie Pans, Chair of the Platform for Electromobility, please contact Amelie.Pans@vattenfall.com.