The EV transition in the UK – Are we in the slow lane?

September 2025

Despite policy momentum, consumer adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the UK is stagnating and leaving the UK lagging behind other major markets. With the UK in the slow lane, this could jeopardise the country’s ability to meet its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate targets.

Our latest study surveyed over 12,000 consumers across six countries — the UK, US, France, Germany, Italy, and China — to understand what’s driving or delaying EV adoption.

Have you ever driven an electric car?

Key Insights

China is the undisputed leader when it comes to consumers’ familiarity with and driving experiences of EVs, nearly four times that of the UK 17 of UK consumers have driven an electric car
UK respondents rank near the bottom of countries surveyed showing intent to buy an EV as their next car 24 of UK consumers say their next car will be electric
Cost is the main barrier for UK consumers, but few worry about depreciation 38 cite high price as the main reason they are not buying an EV
Lack of infrastructure for EVs remains a top concern for UK consumers 21 cite lack of charging as their main barrier to switching