Elderly drivers are more hesitant to make the switch to electric vehicles than any other generation as they deem them too expensive to purchase.
Almost 90 per cent of surveyed pensioners view EVs as a waste of money stating they still have a long way to go in terms of production before they would consider buying one.
Despite the Government increasing incentives for EVs while simultaneously making it harder to purchase diesel-fuelled cars, the older generation seems less than impressed.
Millennials and Gen Z, however, are more likely to switch to a zero emission vehicle than any other generation.
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Elderly drivers are more hesitant to make the switch to electric vehicles
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At least half of 25- to 34-year-olds are willing to stop using petrol and diesel motors in the next five years, compared to just 21 per cent of 55- to 64-year-olds.
Only 16 per cent of people aged 65 and above, however, would consider making the switch.
Michael Braybrook, country manager for electric vehicle charging manufacturer at Zaptec, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s positive to see how many youngsters are keen to make the switch to an EV in the near future, although there is some work to do to convince everyone to make the transition.”
Nearly half of surveyed British drivers said they thought EVs weren’t suited to long journeys, while 32 per cent were worried the energy grid wouldn’t be able to support an increase in charging, a myth Braybrook firmly debunks.
He explained: “There have always been lots of myths around about electric vehicles, from costs and charging to mileage and reliability.
“Our data shows the average driver in this country considers their knowledge surrounding EVs at just over the 4/10 mark – showing a clear need for more education about the sector.”
Another myth stopping drivers from making the switch to electric cars includes thinking there aren’t enough charging stations in the UK, despite the 43 per cent increase since January 2023, according to Zapmap.
When looking at transitioning to EVs, 38 per cent of surveyed drivers revealed they would be more tempted if the second-hand market had more choice.
A Zaptec spokesperson added: “The mileage and charge seems to be a key worry for consumers, which is why a home charger is ideal for reassuring drivers they are ready to go on any journey, long or short.
“With electric vehicles soon to be the norm, the country will become more adapt with providing charge stations.
“The environment seems to be the key influence for motorists wanting to own an EV, which is a step in the right direction to doing our bit for climate change.”
Mike Hawes, chief executive at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said drivers are benefitting from the massive investment made by manufacturers over many years to deliver an electric car choice for every need.
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Gen Z are more likely to buy EVs than pensioners
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He remarked: “We now require a framework that ensures everyone can benefit from zero emission mobility. These vehicles already offer an outstanding driving experience but motorists should have lower total running costs, no matter where they live or work, with fair taxation that inspires instead of impedes.
“With infrastructure provision accelerated ahead of need, the UK can have a healthy, vibrant market, with ever more model choice to keep the UK as a world leader in net zero transport.”