Public debate on EVs fails to reflect drivers’ lived experience, survey finds

Early findings point to a stark gap between perceptions of electric vehicles (EVs) and the experience of those already driving them. (EVs) are changing the way Britain drives.

Almost 70% of electric vehicle (EV) drivers believe the public debate around EVs does not accurately reflect their experience, according to early findings from our annual Steer the Conversation survey. The survey was launched in collaboration with EVA Cymru, EVA Northern Ireland and EVA Scotland, and seeks responses from people across the UK.

Our previous research reinforces the scale of the gap:

Nearly six in ten EV drivers (59%) believe misinformation is playing a prominent role in holding back the transition. Prospective drivers frequently worry about issues such as range and whether there are enough chargepoints, while those already driving electric are more likely to point to practical issues such as the price of charging and ease of access.

As one driver told us: “Disinformation is rampant. I would have struggled or been disappointed if I didn’t know much about EVs beforehand.”

We believe tackling misinformation therefore needs to go beyond correcting myths in the media. Dealerships and service centres are a crucial frontline: previous research found only 61% of drivers rated their handover or service experience as good or excellent, while 16% rated it poor or very poor.

With just a few days left to take part, we’re urging drivers across the UK to share their experiences. These early findings show why that matters: the more drivers who respond, the clearer and more representative the picture of what it is really like to drive, or consider switching to, an EV.

Our Chief Executive, Vicky Edmonds, said:

“These early findings highlight something foundational to our work: amplifying the voices of EV drivers, both current and prospective, in the public sphere is crucial to informing the direction of the EV transition in the UK. Capturing an accurate image of the true EV experience is essential to delivering a just transition for all.

“The public debate around EVs should be informed by those with lived experience from all perspectives, including those who have been driving EVs for years, alongside those who are considering their first EV, and those for whom electric driving seems totally out of reach. We need to hear from everyone.”

The survey takes just five minutes to complete, and all UK drivers, whether EV, hybrid, petrol or diesel, are able to respond. Findings will be shared with policymakers, stakeholders and the wider public, to help inform future EV and transport policy.