A dramatic survey conducted by target AA has revealed that a lack of public charging points was the most common reason for drivers not wanting to make the switch. Nearly 7 in 10 road users said this was the main reason for their concern with respondents in Wales most likely to view this as a barrier.
The AA survey revealed that 41 percent of road users believe that more rapid charging stations on the motorway network or outskirts of towns could encourage them to buy a new model
But 47 percent of road users said a reduction in upfront costs to bring models in line with petrol or diesel was a key issue.
The findings were backed up by a new survey from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
They revealed that purchase prices were the biggest factor holding back drivers with 52 percent putting this as the leading issue.
Some 44 percent of participants said that the lack of charging points was the biggest factor with 28 percent worried about “range anxiety” problems.
The report shockingly revealed that 24 percent of road users don’t think they will be ready to make the switch to an electric vehicle by 2035.
Almost a quarter of road users said they can’t ever see themselves owning one of the new models at all.
The survey comes after the SMMT has pushed the government to invest in extra incentives and infrastructure to boost demand.
The government has already paid out more than £1.7billion to projects aimed at boosting infrastructure.
An extra £500million has also been committed to installing rapid charging stations on motorways with £200million extra for a public charging network expansion
However, the SMMT has warned this is just a “fraction” of what is needed in total to meet ambitious targets.
Mike Hawes, Chief executive of the SMMT said: “Manufacturers are working hard to make zero and ultra-low emissions the norm and are committed to working with government to accelerate the shift to net zero – but obstacles remain.
“Until these vehicles are as affordable to buy and as easy to own and operate as conventional cars, we risk the UK being in the slow lane, undermining industry investment and holding back progress.”