With the UK facing the news that the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars has been delayed by five years, the future of emissions-free motoring is uncertain. Despite the government still claiming to be committed to achieving its net zero targets, experts see this as a warning sign.
The motor industry received the news with frustration. With car manufacturers also facing tight Brexit trade regulations on electric vehicles requiring all batteries to be made in the EU or UK, the situation is complicated further.
Whether you’re working in the motor trade or considering buying your own electric vehicle, it’s worth knowing the state of affairs first.
Is the UK EV-friendly yet?
Infrastructure is improving, but it’s still not prepared to support electric vehicles on a national and complete scale. There are tens of thousands of charging points across the UK, but they’re not always located in the most convenient spots for drivers.
The biggest hurdle faced by EV drivers is the fact that most charging points are found in densely populated locations, forcing drivers in remote communities to find their own charging solutions. During the cost-of-living crisis, affordability is another concern for those looking to make the switch. High upfront costs deter some drivers.
Fortunately, many new build homes are now being planned and built with EV charging points on private driveways. Additionally, living in a rural area usually lowers the cost of insuring a car, which is promising for EV drivers who seek reliable and comprehensive car insurance to protect their investment.
Which are the best and worst places to drive an EV?
The best places in the UK to own and drive an electric vehicle are those with more charging points. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there are more charging points in Greater London than in any other region. But major towns and commuting areas offer great opportunities too.
Some of the best spots for EV drivers include:
- Westminster
- Kensington and Chelsea
- City of London
- Milton Keynes
- Brighton & Hove
On the contrary, rural areas are less likely to support the charging needs of EV drivers. Owning and keeping an electric vehicle on islands, for example, will come hand in hand with increased anxieties about running out of charge. Some of the least-connected locations include:
- Isles of Scilly
- Fenland
- Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales
- Bolton
- Southend-on-Sea
Will the UK be ready by 2035?
The question on the minds of all EV drivers is whether or not we’ll be seeing a fully electric fleet on the roads in just over ten years’ time. It’s predicted that most owners will replace their conventional fuel cars by that time, but it can’t be guaranteed. And despite the government offering charging point grant schemes, some drivers still can’t afford to buy an electric car.
Motor enthusiasts, competitive drivers and collectors alike want to honour the mechanical traditions and heritage of motorsport. It’s certain that here are bumps in the road before an all-electric life starts.
