Cost remains biggest barrier to EV adoption as charging concerns ease

Cost remains the biggest barrier preventing UK motorists from switching to electric vehicles (EVs), although concerns about charging infrastructure are gradually declining, according to the latest EV Barometer from Europcar Mobility Group UK.

The research found that 60.5% of private motorists cited cost as a barrier to EV adoption in September 2026, unchanged from the same period last year.

However, the proportion of drivers concerned about charging infrastructure fell from 44.7% in September 2025 to 39.9% in September 2026, a decline of 4.8 percentage points.

The findings suggest that while improvements in charging infrastructure may be helping to address consumer concerns, affordability remains a significant obstacle to wider EV adoption.

Europcar’s longer-term tracking data reinforces this trend. Across its monthly surveys conducted between January and September, an average of 42.1% of respondents identified charging infrastructure as a barrier in 2026, compared with 43.5% in 2025 and 46.5% in 2024.

Cost concerns have also eased slightly over the longer term, falling from an average of 63.5% in 2024 to around 61% in both 2025 and 2026. Nevertheless, affordability continues to be cited by significantly more motorists than charging availability.

Meanwhile, a lack of knowledge about EV ownership remains a persistent challenge, with approximately one in five drivers identifying this as a barrier to making the switch.

The research comes as the government consults on the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate and examines the factors influencing consumer demand for electric vehicles.

Tom Middleditch, Sustainability Spokesperson at Europcar, said: “It’s encouraging to see charging concerns are beginning to ease, but it seems cost continues to hold many drivers back.

“For private motorists considering electric vehicles, understanding how an EV fits into their day-to-day life matters as much as the headline vehicle cost. Trying one through rental can help drivers assess charging, range and practicality for themselves.”

Europcar said vehicle rental could provide motorists with an opportunity to experience electric driving without committing to the upfront cost of purchasing an EV.

The company is also continuing to develop its digital EV Guide and Knowledge Hub to help consumers better understand charging, vehicle range and the practical considerations associated with electric motoring.

The latest findings highlight the continuing importance of affordability and consumer education in supporting the transition to electric vehicles, even as concerns about the UK’s charging infrastructure begin to ease.