New research commissioned by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) found that 75% of drivers feel extra government subsidies would make electric vehicles more accessible.

The study also revealed that 82% of drivers feel they don’t know enough about electric vehicles to make the switch.

Two thirds of respondents (66%) said they would not know where to find a charging point and nearly a third said they will never change to electric.

Steve Nash, chief executive at the IMI, said: “Range anxiety is one of the main reasons drivers are put off making the switch. Yet the IMI found that people’s weekly mileage is between 60-100 miles, which means that most drivers could actually make the switch to an ultra-low emission vehicle and would only need to charge their car once a week.”

Londoners appear to be the most unsure about electric vehicle range, yet are the most confident about owning an electric vehicle. 

The IMI research also identified the lack of knowledge about the expertise and training required to service and maintain electric vehicles.  More than half (59%) of respondents said they would be confident to perform basic maintenance tasks on an electric vehicle themselves.

“The fact that over half of motorists thought they could do basic maintenance on an electric vehicle is also a huge concern.  With technology in vehicles moving at a record pace it’s more important than ever that those undertaking service, maintenance and repair are regularly trained and properly qualified to a recognized standard. This guarantees their safety in working on and around high-voltage systems and ensures that the owners of electrified vehicles can have confidence that their vehicles are in competent hands,” Nash added.