A new survey has revealed the importance of plug-in hybrid technology in the Road to Zero, as well as in terms of immediate eco benefits.

Almost half (48%) of Outlander PHEV drivers considered a fully electric vehicle but range anxiety was one of the main barriers

The survey of more than 1,000 Mitsubishi drivers, split almost equally amongst plug-in hybrid drivers and those with conventional internal combustion engines (ICE), found almost half (48%) of Outlander PHEV owners considered a full electric vehicle when deciding which car to buy, compared to just 9% of drivers of petrol- or diesel-powered vehicles. Range anxiety was one of the main barriers that put them off along with a sense that EV technology needs to improve.

And although only 9% of ICE drivers considered going full electric, almost a quarter (23%) considered a PHEV when they bought their current ICE car. More than a third (34%) of all drivers of petrol- and diesel-powered Mitsubishis would consider a PHEV as their next car.

And 70% of Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV owners would now consider a fully electric vehicle for their next purchase compared to 27% of ICE drivers.

The research indicates that plug-in hybrid vehicles not only have an immediate environmental impact, but also help familiarise consumers with electric vehicles, providing a stepping stone.

Rob Lindley, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, commented: “This latest research reinforces the fact that PHEVs are a gateway to an all-EV future. Consumers still harbour concerns about pure electric vehicle range, affordability and relying on the nascent nature of the charging infrastructure in the UK, all of which can be addressed by PHEVs while these issues are resolved over time. In the interim, PHEVs can help both the industry and government make an immediate impact on climate change and air quality, especially in urban areas, and speed up the acceptance of electrified vehicles.”