Cost remains the biggest barrier for drivers when it comes to transitioning to net zero, latest research by Zenith finds.

Over a third of EV drivers would transition back if there were no beneficial tax incentives

The third edition of the firm’s EVXperience Report reveals that more than a third (35.8%) of electric drivers would transition back if the monthly cost of an EV became more expensive than a petrol and diesel equivalent, with 34.4% reverting if there were no beneficial tax incentives.

The study, which polled more than 3,650 EV drivers, also found 55.2% of drivers said they selected an EV because the cost of refuelling is less than a petrol or diesel vehicle, but almost a fifth (19.6%) would ignore the wider benefits and switch back if the running costs for an EV increased beyond those of an equivalent petrol or diesel car.

Positively, nine out of 10 EV drivers say they are happy with their vehicle, and knowing what they know now, 74% would still select an EV over a petrol or diesel vehicle.

Zenith’s latest report into the lives and experiences of the UK’s electric vehicle drivers also found worries about range and charging infrastructure appear to be declining, with just 16.6% of drivers concerned about running out of charge mid-journey, compared to 34.2% in 2024, and more than two-thirds (67.5%) of drivers confident using the public charging network.

But while access and reliability are improving, 85% of drivers believe the cost of charging publicly is too high.

And Zenith also warned that without a thriving used market, thousands of drivers are being priced out of going electric, making the transition uncertain.

Ian Hughes, CEO of Zenith’s corporate and consumer divisions, said: “The Government’s ZEV mandate has put pressure on manufacturers to sell more EVs, but for most drivers, the cost of buying new is pricing them out of the market. In order to accelerate the transition, we need to explore more ways to make EVs accessible, such as helping to create a thriving used market. Without access to lower cost vehicles, we’ll never make EVs the vehicle of choice and help reach our net zero targets.”

Zenith’s third EVXperience report is online here.