Interest in electric cars spiked throughout fuel crisis

As panic buying caused long queues, online interest in electric cars rose significantly throughout the fuel crisis.

For some, this could the tipping point in their intentions to ditch a traditional ICE vehicle and get behind the wheel of an electric.

Online interest in electric cars soared

On Wednesday 22 September, 31% of visitors to vehicle manufacturer websites clicked on an electric car and it remained at 28% on Sunday, according to data from analytics firm Sophus3.

Google Trends data has also shown a remarkable uplift for UK searches around the term ‘electric car’.

The UK’s biggest car marketplace, Auto Trader, also stated that electric car advert views skyrocketed as more of the general public toyed with the idea of making the switch well ahead of the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel models in 2030.

Is now the time for a change?

Ian Plummer, Commercial Director, at Auto Trader said “’We are all familiar with the idea of range anxiety, but the events of the past few days mean we are entering the age of fuel anxiety.’

‘We have seen a massive surge in consumer engagement for electric cars on our marketplace over the weekend.’

‘Not only did the number of advert views for new and used electric models increase a record 28 percent and 61 percent respectively versus the previous weekend, but we also saw a huge uplift in the number of people sending enquiries to retailers, with one sent every two minutes.’

‘This suggests that people aren’t simply flirting with the idea of electric but have been encouraged to actively pursue a purchase.”

Government sets out the plan for a zero-emission vehicle mandate from 2024 that forces manufacturers to sell more electric vehicles each year

We could all be driving electric vehicles sooner than we think if the Government approve the Net Zero Strategy.

Manufacturers could be forced to sell a rising share of electric vehicles each year to speed up the shift to zero-emission passenger cars under plans announced in the Government’s Net Zero Strategy.

The Department for Business Energy & Industrial Strategy confirmed it will consult on the introduction of a ‘zero-emission vehicle mandate’ from 2024 – and it could fine carmakers who do not move quickly enough to phase out internal combustion engine cars.

Ministers see the policy as the most effective way of shifting the UK’s car parc to EVs – while also allowing taxpayer-funded grants to be reduced.

‘Our zero-emissions vehicle (ZEV) mandate will guarantee a greater number of zero-emission vehicles on our roads, unlocking the transformation of our road transport,’ the strategy paper said.

Looking for a new electric vehicle in Nottingham?

As per the article, more people are considering moving into an electric vehicle for their next vehicle. Luckily for you, Lindleys vehicle sales are here to help with a huge range of stock for your next vehicle, you can view our latest stock by clicking here.

Electric vehicle servicing in Nottingham

Now you’ve got your new electric vehicle, maintenance is key to keeping it in the best condition. Lindleys Autocentres offer a full electric vehicle servicing and MOT starting from only £80 – learn more here!