More than a third of Brits say they are more likely to buy an EV now that the government’s electric car grant is live, and Londoners are leading the charge.
A Renault survey found 35% of UK drivers are more inclined to switch to electric thanks to the £650m scheme, with 54% of Londoners saying the grant makes EVs more appealing.
The poll is one of the first big looks at how the public is reacting to the new incentives, which launched last month. Renault confirmed its full electric lineup, the Renault 4, Renault 5, Megane, and Scenic, qualifies for the £1,500 grant. Ford has already snagged the top-tier £3,750 discount for its Puma Gen-E, and more car-specific details are rolling out.
Racing champ Jason Plato described the response as a positive sign for the EV transition. He added, “More and more people are switching on to the benefits of electric motoring.”
Across the UK, 55% of people said they expect to buy an electric car within the next two years, showing consumer interest is ramping up. EVs already make up 21.9% of new car registrations in 2025.
Younger drivers are leading the way. 85% of under-34s say they are likely to switch to electric in the next two years. Older drivers are more cautious, with only 27% of over-55s planning to make the jump, and range anxiety, 45%, and charging availability, 47%, their biggest concerns.
Men and women also see things differently. 63% of men are likely to go electric soon, compared to 46% of women, who tend to be more focused on price and used EV availability.
Plato says education is key to busting myths about modern EVs. “While we have to respect people’s concerns, many of them are looking outdated as some of the latest cars to be launched offer incredible technology at great value.”
