Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform, together with ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), have been joined by Zapmap and the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) to update their initiative combatting misinformation surrounding electric cars.
The updated collection of user-friendly, simplified facts, first shared in November 2024, offers a balanced and data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving electric cars. Updates include:
- The number of public charge points around the UK is now 75,675
- The number of ultra rapid chargers is now 15,109, up from 14,711
- The upfront price difference between new electric and petrol cars has dropped from around 33% last year to 23% in March
- The share of used electric cars that are now under £20,000, now two in five (38%) up from one in three in November
- There are now 29 brand new electric cars with RRP under £30,000, compared to 21 last year
- Potential annual savings have increased from £750 last time to £790 thanks to rising fuel costs
These facts clarify points such as how electric cars are greener, are no more likely to catch fire than an ICE car, and that the electric range and charging point availability is better than some might think. This information is endorsed by the Department for Transport and will be regularly reviewed and updated.
New data from Auto Trader shows an increase in retailers stocking used electric vehicles, a sign of market confidence. Franchise retailers still dominate the used electric market, due to the young age profile of these cars, with 79% (3.4k) stocking at least one used electric car - a 7% year-on-year (YoY) increase. Whilst 17% (1.9k) independent retailers stock electric cars, this is just a 2% YoY increase, a much slower rate of growth.
Despite consumer and retailer nervousness, 83% of current electric car owners said they would buy electric again.1
Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said:
"With decreasing costs, improved range and a chargepoint network growing at lightning speed, there’s never been a better time to switch to electric. It’s brilliant to see the great work the industry is doing in showcasing all the benefits of the transition.
"We’re investing over £2.3 billion to help the country make a supported switch to electric vehicles, creating high-paid jobs, tapping into a multi-billion pound industry and making the UK a clean energy superpower as part of our Plan for Change."
Jade Edwards, Head of Insights at Zapmap, commented:
“Zapmap welcomes the opportunity to be part of this co-ordinated effort to get the facts on the reality of charging out into the market. Through our app, we give confidence to current EV drivers when they are out and about, whilst our unrivalled charging data and insights gives the next wave of EV drivers the confidence to make the switch to electric."
Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), commented:
“NFDA is delighted to be a part of this industry-wide initiative to champion the facts about electric cars and tackle misinformation as the transition to electric accelerates. As the consumer-facing end of the industry, NFDA members have the professional knowledge and understanding in UK electric vehicle sales, with many accredited through NFDA’s Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) scheme. They provide comprehensive guidance on EV purchases and offer expert after-sales support, with highly trained EV technicians to meet customers' ongoing needs.”
Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader, commented:
“We’re delighted to have the NFDA and Zapmap join us on our mission to provide more balanced and fact-based narratives to both retailers and consumers. We know a change as significant as electrification can leave lots of room for confusion, but we believe if the industry works together, we can help everyone feel confident as they electrify. One highlight of the recent update is the growth of affordable EVs – we need to make sure there’s an EV for everyone and two in five used electric cars now under £20,000 is a good sign.”
A summary of the facts can be found here.
1 Auto Trader New Car Awards Research 2024
