According to a study, only 6% of drivers plan to buy an electric car in the next two years due to fear of finding charging stations

ONLY six percent of van drivers plan to switch to electric within the next two years, fearing infrastructure gaps.

A survey of 600 adults who drive the vehicle for work found that 48 percent of those who have not yet taken the plunge intend to stick with a fuel-powered vehicle for now. 47 percent are still undecided.

1

Two-thirds (65 percent) of drivers of petrol or diesel-powered vans find it difficult to find charging points.

For example, 19 percent would be more willing to move if there was an easier way to plan their journey around charging station locations in advance

Other reassurances non-electric drivers need include evidence of improved productivity (16 percent) and less downtime for repairs (13 percent).

Technology that provides range status updates would also address the nearest charging stations and required maintenance (14 percent).

The study was commissioned by Ford Pro, which is urging local governments and governments to increase spending on electric vehicle infrastructure ahead of the ban on new petrol or diesel vehicles in 2035.

As part of its campaign, the car company is lending e-transit vans to dealers at Brixton’s Electric Avenue market throughout 2023 so they can try electric vans for themselves.

Levi Roots, a Brixton native and reggae reggae sauce, is working with the firm to decarbonize his own business logistics.

He said: “As my business continues to grow, I’m always looking for ways to streamline my logistics and keep my business sustainable.
“The tools Ford can offer to companies like mine will really help us thrive as consumers become more environmentally conscious.”

The study, conducted by OnePoll, found that 51 percent feel companies are under pressure to adopt more sustainable business practices to reduce their carbon footprint – and remain economically viable.

However, 36 percent believe that a lack of infrastructure – including too few charging points – would negatively impact productivity.

While 32 percent fear that this would be detrimental to profits.
Mandy Dean, Commercial Vehicle Director, Ford of Britain said: “Many of these local companies have been serving customers for decades, across multiple generations and probably with the support of a Transit in the background.

“It is vital that these companies continue to thrive as we collectively move towards an all-electric future – we stand ready to support them every step of the way and call on councils and governments to get behind the switch as well place.”