New plug-in hybrid car sales should continue between 2030 and 2035 to offer a stepping stone for those lacking the confidence to switch to full EVs, according to the AA.
The motoring organisation has published a new report on what drivers want from the EV transition, based on survey data.
The UK Government recently held a consultation on its plan of banning the sale of new pure petrol and diesel cars from 2030, during which it also asked for views about cars which could be sold until a ban on all new zero-emission cars from 2035. It said this could include plug-in hybrids, or both plug-in hybrids and conventional hybrids, with various CO2 emissions limits suggested.
In its report, the AA argues that while the ideal environmental policy would be a move to full EVs, doing this by 2030 would be too quick for those with doubts about the vehicles.
The report states: “Given the strength of negative feeling towards EVs in this group, there is a good case for plug-in hybrids as these can be a stepping stone for consumers still lacking the confidence to go full electric.
“Having a plug-in gets consumers used to charging and hybrids are more affordable than EVs now.
“Our recently completed research showed that nearly 40% of all drivers would be very hesitant or totally reject moving to an EV, but one in five of these drivers would consider a hybrid as their next car.
“However, for this policy to be effective more needs to be done to help the approximate 40% without access to off-street parking and therefore home charging. Until those measures are implemented, full hybrids with a decent electric range – which don’t plug in – should also be considered.”
Allowing new plug-in hybrid sales until 2035 is one of several measures recommended by the AA’s report. Others include the establishment of a public awareness campaign led by government and industry to address the EV doubts and needs of different driver segments.
The report states: “Drivers need to be brought along on this journey, rather than just having their choice taken away in the next five years.
“EV driving needs to be desirable, not just unavoidable, and currently the case is not compelling for most ICE drivers. The good news is that much can be done to re-frame the view of EVs in the eyes of the public.
“The government ended its joint campaign with industry to promote EV uptake, yet this approach is needed now more than ever. A new campaign could bring together government, motoring groups, industry, and consumer organisations to provide accurate and impartial information, supported by Think!-style publicity campaigns.
“Even better still, it could give thousands of [potential EV drivers] the chance to experience EVs firsthand at various locations.”
Other recommendations from the report include targeted incentives to make EVs more affordable, potentially including loans and tax breaks for EVs and home charging, and reducing VAT on public charging.
The AA also recommends boosting the second-hand EV market – supporting proposals for battery health passports – as well as improving the visibility of charging infrastructure, and enhancing the secondary aspects of EV driving, such as insurance and maintenance.
