EV complaints climb but from a small base

The Motor Ombudsman has reported that complaints about EVs rose slightly in the second quarter of the year.

It found that between April and June motorists logged a total of 291 cases with The Motor Ombudsman’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service, surpassing the previous tally of 273 in the first quarter.

Consumer concerns relating to customer service and at the point of purchase continued to be the main source of discontent, accounting for 31% of complaints logged.

The vehicle chassis and motor area was responsible for a fifth of EV disputes.

Meanwhile, problems arising from electronics and software accounted for 14% of issues reported about EVs in quarter two.

Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman, said: “What our latest quarterly data analysis is showing, is that despite the volume of complaints starting to creep up, these still account for less than one per cent of overall contacts received every quarter, therefore posting an encouraging picture that the majority of EV owners and buyers are enjoying what is a positive experience, with no major causes for concern.

“The level of service delivered by businesses, problems encountered at the point of purchase remains a key sticking point for motorists, but there are small signs this is beginning to improve.”