Petrol and diesel car ban proposals would see the sale of combustion engine models completely banned forcing motorists to purchase new electric models. The government is expected to bring forward a ban on petrol and diesel cars to 2030 this week leaving manufacturers just under a decade to make the generational switch.
However, experts at the RAC have warned that the upfront costs for models remain “far too high” which could leave many motorists caught out.
They say that electric models are not widely available on the second-hand car market which may force road users to buy expensive brand new cars or not drive at all.
Head of Roads Policy at the RAC, Nicholas Lyes warned prices would need to be “dramatically” reduced to ensure they were a “realistic option” for road users.
He added that the government needed to focus to “incentivise” motorists to make the electric switchover.
READ MORE: UK may not be prepared for 2030 car ban proposals
Their comments come after a new survey from AutoTrader has shown that upfront costs were a barrier to switching for 61 percent of car buyers.
AutoTrader warned that a persistent price gap of between 15 and 20 percent remains between traditional and electric vehicles.
Fair Fuel UK founder Howard Cox has previously warned about the risks of forcing drivers to switch to electric cars.
He warned that even if a £6,000 scrappage scheme was introduced it would still not be enough for many to switch their vehicle.
He said many would still not be able to purchase a vehicle which was on sale for “£20,000 plus” as he questioned how ordinary road users could find the £14,0000 difference.
Mr Lyes has warned that alongside changes in upfront costs, more electric car infrastructure was also needed.
The RAC says the car industry faces a “monumental challenge” to make the switch in car design.
It said that “more rapid charging devices” were needed, calling for a major “national charging network” to be installed near drivers homes.
He said: “The car industry clearly now faces a monumental challenge to change its production lines, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure will need to be expanded at an incredible pace to cope with the surge in electric vehicles (‘EVs’) coming on to our roads.
“We believe many more rapid charging devices are needed in order to give drivers the confidence that they can make longer journeys in a convenient and time-efficient manner.
“While many people, especially those with off-street parking, will charge their vehicles overnight at home.
“This won’t be possible for everyone so access to a reliable national charging network is vital to make the process of recharging simple and convenient.”