Over two-thirds of EV drivers (75%) indicate that the driving experience and technology of EVs is a major reason for going electric, yet not all drivers are satisfied. These findings form part of this years’ Shell Recharge Solutions EV Driver Survey 2022, the largest survey of EV drivers in Europe.
The survey also found that 70% of drivers would choose a BEV over a hybrid due to the environmental benefits, and 55% for the cost benefits, but almost half of EV drivers want to see improved charge point availability.
According to EV-drivers, the most important driver for mass EV adoption would be improved battery range, followed by lower initial purchase costs of an electric vehicle and better charge point availability. In addition, only a third of respondents say highway chargers are meeting the charging speeds they need, a figure that lowers to one-in-five for retail and hospitality locations.
The number-one reason for going electric was environmental impact, though this is down to 35% from 38% in last year’s survey. The trend that EV drivers expect their next vehicle to be a BEV has deepened considerably this year, with three-quarters planning on buying a BEV as their next vehicle, up from 62% last year.
The proportion of those thinking of going back to traditional combustion engine vehicles has halved from four to two percent.
Shell Recharge Solutions, a leader in smart EV charging solutions, has ambitions to operate over 500,000 charge points by 2025 and 2,500,000 by 2030
Melanie Lane, CEO of Shell Recharge Solutions Europe, says: “The industry needs to understand the challenges of EV drivers in order to facilitate mass adoption and that’s why the findings of our survey are critical. It’s clear that there is a growing passion for EVs, where drivers are motivated by technology, cost, and sustainability, but it’s also evident that the lack of a good user experience remains a key barrier to mass adoption. To continue momentum and encourage further EV adoption, these issues must be addressed.”
She adds: “Drivers should feel they have access to sufficient charge points with a convenient, seamless and reliable charging experience. By focusing on improving the user experience, we are choosing to listen to drivers, and we are encouraging the industry to join us.”
Operating across Europe, North America, and Asia, Shell Recharge Solutions offers industry-leading products and services to customers including planning and consulting, on-site installation and energy management and maintenance support whether they are at home, at work, or on the go.
