-
Uncertainty over EV policy dents confidence to switch
-
EV insurance prices reduce, but used EVs become more
expensive
-
Overall readiness score grows, but remains under halfway at
48.8 out of 100
-
“Whilst the Index shows some progress, the conditions that
support drivers' shift to EVs remain challenging for many.”
says AA president
Growing political and policy uncertainty is putting the
brakes on drivers' willingness to switch to electric vehicles,
according to the latest AA UK EV Readiness
Index.
The European Commission's plans to water down their 2035
zero-emissions target and recent calls from politicians to scrap
the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, have created a climate
of confusion and hesitation among consumers and manufacturers
alike.
This uncertainty is compounded by concerns over the proposed
e-VED scheme, which would see electric car owners paying a new
tax based on annual mileage from April 2028. While the intention
to ensure EVs contribute to road maintenance is understandable,
the timing and lack of clarity risk deterring some of those who
were considering making the switch.
Despite a modest rise in the overall readiness score to
48.8 (up from 47.3 last quarter), the
foundations of drivers' readiness to adopt an EV remain fragile.
The AA's data shows that while EV insurance prices have
fallen—offering some encouragement—used EVs have become more
expensive relative to petrol and diesel cars, and a small uptick
in ‘out of charge' breakdowns due to colder weather has added to
consumer nervousness.
Edmund King, AA president said:
“Drivers are being buffeted by mixed messages and policy
reversals. Talk of the ZEV mandate being scrapped or delayed, and
the introduction of new taxes on EVs, risks undermining years of
progress. Those already on the fence may now be stepping back to
the familiar territory of petrol or diesel, rather than embracing
the switch to electric.
“Whilst the Index shows some progress, the conditions that
support drivers' shift to EVs remain challenging for many.
“The drop in EV insurance pricing at a slightly faster rate than
for ICE insurance is great news for consumers, but there are
wider concerns about used car pricing, where most private sales
occur.
“If the UK is serious about accelerating EV adoption, 2026 must
bring stronger, clearer guidance and meaningful incentives. Only
then will we see real momentum and confidence among drivers to
make the change.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
December 2025 EV UK Readiness Index AA EV Readiness Index Dec 2025 |
AA
First EV Readiness Index (September) AA UK EV Readiness Index |
AA
Comprehensive AA member and driver insights on EVs can be found
here: https://www.theaa.com/about-us/newsroom/aa-ev-viewpoint
The AA's EV Readiness Index offers a comprehensive snapshot of
how practical and appealing EV ownership is for UK drivers today.
Drawing on proprietary AA data and expert sources, the Index
tracks eight critical factors:
