AA survey says 50% of young drivers want to own an electric car

A survey from the AA motoring organisation shows that half of young people in the UK would like to own an electric car – compared with just a quarter of their parents.

The research from an AA/Populus poll of 10,293 drivers says young people seem to be more accepting of the technology than older people. who still hold needless fears about myths surrounding the sector.

The poll comes as the government has announced a target for 50% of all new vehicle sales to be in the ultra-low emissions category by 2030.

Mass ownership of electric vehicles (EVs) is seen as a major factor in cleaning up pollution and tackling climate change.

Tim Payne, the CEO of InstaVolt, said: “We find the results of this survey bear out our own experience. The speed at which EVs have become accepted by young drivers is really encouraging – they are, after all, the future. It’s also vitally important that we educate the motoring public to ensure that we dispel the myths surrounding EVs in general and charging in particular.”

The AA’s president Edmund King said: “The range, charging speed and charging point infrastructure are all on the increase. There needs to be a more concerted effort by us all to sell the benefits of electric vehicles.

“Drivers will also need to change their fuelling habits with the majority charging their EVs at night (at home) and then at their destinations.

“Ultimately outstanding, affordable, stylish EVs with a decent range will sell themselves. Massive savings can already be made on running and service costs, as well as the tax benefits.”

“The younger generation in particular are ready to embrace the electric revolution.”