A new initiative revealing the facts about EV charging, fire risks and prices has launched to counter misinformation.

The clear and concise information enables drivers to see the facts about EVs at a glance

Auto Trader, ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have teamed up to promote a set of user-friendly facts about electric cars, endorsed by the Department for Transport.

The clear and concise information enables drivers to see the facts about EVs at a glance, clarifying that electric cars are greener, are no more likely to catch fire than an ICE car, and that the electric range and charging point availability is better than some might think.

The campaign delivers a more balanced and data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving electric cars, and the group has confirmed that the data points will be regularly reviewed and updated, with new versions issued when required.

Electric cars are becoming far more popular but a significant proportion of consumers believe myths such as ‘electric vehicles are more likely to catch fire’ and ‘electric cars are not cheaper to run’.

There’s a clear disconnect between perception and reality as, despite consumer and retailer nervousness, 83% of current electric car owners said they would buy electric again.

A report by the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee earlier this year expressed concern about a “concerted campaign of misinformation” about EVs and called for “a ‘go-to’ source of comprehensive, clear and balanced information.

Further research conducted by Auto Trader in April this year showed that mistruths repeated in various media sources were impacting consumer confidence in electric cars, with 72% of consumers aware of the false “electric cars catch fire” narrative and 44% incorrectly believing it’s true – which has made them less likely to go electric.

Similarly, 70% had heard that “EVs are not cheaper to run” with 33% agreeing that they believe this to be true, and that this has made them less likely to buy an electric car.

Separate research from Auto Trader shows that 46% of retailers believe a lack of consumer confidence in the technology is a significant barrier to adoption.

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Zero-emission vehicles will drive our journey to net zero, which is why this government is committed to accelerating the transition.

“Ensuring consumers have clear, accurate information when deciding what kind of car to buy is essential. This work by industry is absolutely vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it.”

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “More than a million motorists have already gone electric and been delighted by their decision, with many benefiting from lower running costs, an outstanding driving experience and a smaller carbon footprint. But making the switch can be daunting for some, given the need to consider charging as well as driving so a single source of truth can avoid any confusion. And that truth is that the time to go electric is now.”

A summary of the facts can be found here.