Electric vehicles was on high demand, but last year, in 2023 there was a 34% decrease in sales. The sales market for diesel vehicles have been low since 2016. However, the sales of diesel vehicles rose in sales in December 2023, by 12%.
It is shocking that there is a decrease in the amount of EV’s being sold. Especially with the Governments plan to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035.
The amount of new vehicles registered in the UK has shot up by nearly 18%. However, the electric vehicle demand is flatlining, prompting the industry to call for a VAT cut to stimulate sales.
Last year (2023), 315,000 new battery electric vehicles were sold, which was 50,000 more than 2022. However, the amount of EV’s being bought as a share of total registrations failed to grow as expected.
There could be various factors contributing to the decrease in electric vehicle sales in the UK, such as:
- changes in the governments incentives
- economic conditions
- fluctuations in consumers preferences
What type of economic conditions could be contributing?
Economic conditions, including factors like; income levels, employment rates, and overall economic stability, can influence consumer spending on big-ticket items like electric vehicles. Economic downturns or uncertainties may lead to a decrease in purchasing power, affecting the demand for such vehicles.
The reason for fluctuation in consumer preferences
Consumer preferences towards electric vehicles can fluctuate due to various factors. Including; changes in technology, Government policies, environmental awareness, economic conditions, and the availability of charging infrastructure. Additionally, improvements in electric vehicle features, such as longer range and faster charging times, can also influence consumer choices. Public perception, media coverage, and automakers’ marketing strategies play significant roles in shaping preferences as well.
How can the Government get drivers to purchase EV’s?
The UK Government can influence public opinion on various matters, including preferences for electric vehicles, through a combination of strategies. This may include:
- Incentives and Subsidies: Offering financial incentives and subsidies for purchasing electric vehicles can encourage people to consider them, making them more appealing from a cost perspective.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in a robust charging infrastructure across the country makes electric vehicles more practical and convenient, addressing concerns about range anxiety.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Running educational campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of electric vehicles, both for individuals and the environment, can shift public perception positively.
- Regulatory Measures: Implementing regulations or policies that promote electric vehicle adoption, such as emission standards or restrictions on traditional vehicles in certain areas, can drive change.
- Collaboration with Industry: Partnering with automotive manufacturers to promote and develop electric vehicles can enhance their availability and variety, catering to different consumer preferences.
- Tax Incentives: Offering tax benefits or reduced taxes for electric vehicle owners can make them more financially attractive compared to traditional vehicles.
- Demonstration Programs: Organizing events or programs that allow people to experience electric vehicles first-hand can help dispel misconceptions and showcase their capabilities.
- Government Fleet Transition: Leading by example, the government can transition its own fleet to electric vehicles, demonstrating commitment to sustainability and encouraging citizens to follow suit.
By employing a combination of these strategies, the UK Government can work towards; shaping public opinion and fostering a positive attitude towards electric vehicles.
What plans are in place to increase the sales?
The Governments plan for the changeover is being supported by the zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate. It will require 22% of all vehicles manufactured by carmakers to be ZEVs by the start of next year. With the intention to rise to 80% by 2030. It seems that the figures for the switchover are stalling. The belief is that it is because of the VAT on all new ZEV purchases.
The SMMT has asked for the Government to halve VAT on all new ZEV, which are purchased over the next three years. By the Government doing this, it will save consumers a total of £7.7 billion and would put 250,000 extra ZEVs on the road by 2026.
In 2022 the Governments grants of up to £1,500 on new EV purchases finished, which may be a reason for the decrease in sales.
It is thought that by the Government halving the VAT, this will not only increase the sales of EV’s, but also get closer to the Governments environmental outcome they want.
An article similar to this: Misconceptions about Hybrid & Electric Vehicles
Things to think about prior to buying an EV
Owning a Fully Electric Vehicle, could save you more money compared to petrol and diesel vehicles.
Fully Electric Vehicles are known to be a lot more efficient to drive and cheaper to run.
You should take into account that, depending on the make and model of the EV, will depend on the amount of time it needs charging. All EV’s have different ranges of distance they can travel, before they need to be charged.
The amount of miles you do per day, week, month and year, has a big impact on the cost. It will also depend on, if you do a lot of City driving or long distance driving, as this impacts on the amount of times the vehicle needs charging.
Another point that needs to be taken into account, is if you own a petrol or diesel vehicle, as the prices of fuel are different.
All Electric Vehicles have different distance range, so prior to buying an EV, keep this is mind.
Want to know more about EV’s?
Here at MTC, we offer a variety of courses that can give you the information you need about Electric and Hybrid Vehicles.
Hybrid Training Course, Level 1 – Raise Awareness
Hybrid/ EV Training Course, Level 2 – Light Vehicles
Level 2, Buses, Hybrid Training Course
Hybrid Training Course, Level 2 – HGV’s
Hybrid Training Course Level 3 – Cars
The Level 1 Hybrid and Electric Training Course, is to raise awareness of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. This course is aimed at anyone that may come into contact with Hybrid and Electric Vehicles.
Level 2 Hybrid and Electric Light Vehicle Training Course, Level 2 HGV Training Course and Level 2 Buses Training Course. The Level 2 course is aimed at mechanics and car valeters.
The Level 3 Hybrid and Electric Training Course, is aimed at technicians and mechanics.
Information about our Hybrid Courses and what we will cover:
- Safe system shut down and recommissioning.
- Methods of safe component and system test and measurement.
- Using and interpreting vehicle wiring diagrams & tech data for speedy and efficient repairs.
- Hybrid propulsion and energy generation systems.
- Brush less 3 Phase Motor form and function.
- DC and AC (3 phase) Control Systems.
- Using OEM, Pass-thru and Aftermarket Scan Tools for in vehicle system and component diagnosis.
- How to work safely on hybrid and related vehicle systems.
- How to carry out maintenance and repair activities when working on Hybrid vehicles.
- Construction and function of battery modules and related components
It is anticipated that Level 3 will be the minimum requirement in the future.
Best practice dictates that each technical staff member should be qualified to at least level 2 (service technician).
Diagnostic technicians should be qualified to level 3 (for fault diagnosis and removal, test and refit of high voltage systems).
Our trainers are experienced in the field and can provide you with all the knowledge you need.
