Grants or loans to support the used EV market is the number one action dealers would like to the new Labour government to take, according to Startline.
56% would back the move while 50% want cheaper electricity for EV drivers and 45% want to see increased on-street charging.
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said: “The list of measures that dealers say they would like the new Labour government to deliver in our research are dominated by the issue of electrification, which is an indication of the deep concern they are feeling.
“It’s interesting that the top factor is some kind of direct help with buying an electric car, whether that is some kind of grant or cheap loan. Essentially, dealers think that the EV market needs some form of subsidy for consumers to be comfortable going electric.”
Tariffs on Chinese EVs to protect the existing car market are popular at 42% while the same percentage want to see more training options to improve the availability of skilled people.
35% would like a government approved and administered used battery EV health check, 31% want an improvement in the economy to inspire consumer confidence and 23% want the government to lower business rates.
Burgess said: “We’ve asked this question of consumers this month and almost nine out of 10 say having a detailed picture of a used EV’s battery health would be an important part of any purchase. It is also a commitment in the Labour manifesto, so is very likely to happen.
“It’s also noteworthy that training for the motor industry is so high up the list. Getting hold of people with the right skills remains a very real issue for dealers, and they would clearly like to see the new government help solve this problem.”