Most dealers say they are under pressure from carmakers to sell EVs to meet ZEV Mandate targets.
A survey of dealers carried out by the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) found that 39% of dealers were under ‘a great deal’ of pressure to sell EVs whilst 32% were under ‘a moderate amount’ of pressure.
The survey received 51 responses from dealer groups, representing over 300 sites.
Looking ahead to the election the dealers said slowing EV demand, technician shortages and lack of charging infrastructure were the three most important issues for them.
Most dealers (69%) said slowing EV demand meeting ZEV mandate targets was their biggest concern.
In second place was retaining quality staff cited by 33% of dealers and in third slot was charging infrastructure, cited by 24%.
Dealers were also asked what they wanted the next government to do. One in four, 41%, want it to stimulate the EV market, 32% want a reform of business rates and27% want an improved charging infrastructure.
“NFDA’s General Election survey has provided insightful perspectives as we edge closer to the General Election. The results illustrate the current challenges dealerships are facing and underscore important areas for the next government to address,” said NFDA CEO Sue Robinson.
“In the survey, dealerships have highlighted the sector’s persistent skills shortage, restimulating the private electric vehicle market and reforming business rates as fundamental areas which will need addressing from the next government. NFDA has consistently raised these issues with the previous government, and they are central themes in NFDA’s General Election manifesto [1].
“Once the election has concluded and the dust settles, it is crucial for the next government to work with NFDA and the wider industry to tackle the concerns of dealerships and consumers alike.”