Just over one in ten (11%) UK consumers intend to make their next car purchase an electric vehicle (EV).
That’s the conclusion of Deloitte’s latest Global Automotive Consumer Survey.
The research, based on responses from more than 1,200 driving-age consumers in the UK, reveals increased interest in EVs, and marks a doubling from just 5% in 2018, and 6% in 2019.
At the same time, consumers intending to buy a traditional petrol or diesel vehicle has steadily declined, with the latest survey finding that fewer than half (48%) would now buy within this category. This is a decline from 73% in 2018, and 63% in 2019.
Michael Woodward, UK automotive lead at Deloitte, said: “Whilst the uptake of EVs is unlikely to overtake demand for traditional petrol or diesel cars any time soon, a tipping point is likely to be reached in 2021.
“At this point, the cost of ownership, a major consideration for consumers, is set to converge with EV sales and expected to take a significant share of the market. Meanwhile, company car tax rates changes this coming April could see demand for EVs hit an all-time high as tax rates are reduced to 0%.”
40% of UK consumers expressed interest in moving to a digital purchasing experience for their next vehicle.
Woodward said: “Looking further into the future, the way in which consumers are able to make their vehicle purchase could also become a key consideration for the uptake of EVs.
“Dealerships are already turning their attention to innovations that should replicate the buying experience consumers currently receive with other products.”