Electric vehicle uptake hindered by mixed messages
Growing political and policy uncertainty is slowing electric vehicle uptake in the UK, according to the latest AA UK EV Readiness Index.
It found that the European Commission’s plans to water down their 2035 zero-emissions target and recent calls from UK politicians to scrap the ZEV Mandate have created a climate of confusion and hesitation among consumers and manufacturers alike.
This uncertainty has been compounded by concerns over the pay-per-mile road tax due to be imposed on electric vehicles from April 2028.
Combined, these issues have meant the UK’s readiness to adopt electric vehicles has remained nearly unchanged in the last three months, rising to 48.8 from 47.3 in the last quarter.
Mixed messages
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.”
