Drivers across the east of England have remained hesitant in making the transition to electric vehicles despite the increased pressure from Labour.
A recent survey conducted by Suffolk councils identified several barriers preventing drivers from switching to cleaner alternatives.
The survey found that 81 per cent of Suffolk's taxi fleet is currently running on diesel with the need to move to a more sustainable mode of transport becoming more pressing.
But despite the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate demanding drivers switch to electric by 2035, the survey revealed three major barriers preventing taxi drivers from embracing electric vehicles.
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Suffolk Council found 81 per cent of tax drivers still have diesel taxi vehicles
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Range anxiety topped the list, with drivers concerned that EVs may not be able to travel far enough on a single charge to meet their daily needs.
The second significant barrier was cost, with 71 per cent of respondents stating that suitable electric vehicles are too expensive for them.
The third major concern surrounded the charging infrastructure, with drivers worried about finding places to charge their vehicles during shifts.
While purchase costs are gradually decreasing and the second-hand market is growing, many drivers still find EVs unaffordable without financial assistance.
The situation is particularly challenging for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, which are required by licensing policies. There are very few electric models available, with prices ranging from £35,000 to £80,000, compared to cheaper diesel alternatives.
Despite higher initial costs, the council detailed how EVs offer lower running expenses, with significantly reduced maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and cheaper charging compared to refuelling.
Public charging infrastructure remains a key concern, with 52 per cent of drivers stating that dedicated charge points for taxis would incentivise them to switch to EVs.
This was surprisingly more popular than financial incentives, suggesting significant anxiety about charge point availability during shifts. Other potential incentives include cheaper charging at public charge points, grants to purchase EVs, and reduced or free public car parking for electric vehicles.
Some local authorities across the UK have already implemented supportive measures, including extended test drives, financial incentives, and license fee exemptions for zero emission vehicles.
Cambridge City Council, for example, offers extended age limits of up to 15 years for zero-emission vehicles and aims for all licensed saloon vehicles to be zero or ultra-low emission by 2028.
Councillor Gerald Kelly, Chair of the Suffolk Councils' Environment Portfolio Holders' Group said: "I'd like to thank Suffolk's taxi and private hire drivers who took part in the survey, to help us understand the challenges that they face when considering moving over to an electric vehicle. Some of these are practical concerns, and some we can help myth-bust.
"Everyone has a responsibility and a role to play but I'm pleased we're able to support our taxi drivers explore the possibilities of operating electric vehicles."
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Expensive electric vehicles has been a key barrier for drivers thinking of moving away from diesel cars
PANationwide, the proportion of taxis using petrol and diesel in England has fallen from 89 per centto 71 per cent between 2020 and 2024, while hybrid vehicles have more than doubled from 10 per cent to 28 per cent.
