EVs more likely to be successfully repaired on the roadside than petrol or diesel cars

According to data from the AA, electric vehicles are more likely to be successfully repaired at the roadside than petrol or diesel cars. 

Similarly, despite consumer concern about battery health, data from the AA reveals that the 12 volt battery in an internal combustion engine car is more likely reason for a call out than the battery of an electric car.

Together, Autotrader and the AA have also revealed new research showing that 44% of consumers are concerned about the risk of breakdowns or roadside repairs when considering switching to an EV. 

The most concerned age group was the 75+ cohort, more than half (56%) of whom were concerned. The North East was the highest concerned region with 52% of respondents sharing reservations, whilst women were slightly more likely to be concerned (46% vs. 41% for men).  

The AA will be starting a cross-industry Facts initiative as part of the quarterly update. The campaign promotes a set of user-friendly, simplified facts that offer a data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving electric cars to dispel popular misconceptions.  

Edmund King, AA president: "It’s fantastic to have the AA join our campaign to make sure that drivers have the right information to make informed choices. Their data shows EVs can offer high levels of reliability, far more than many drivers may expect. Whilst electric cars might not be right for all buyers right now - if you can charge off-street, it could be a great option - we hope The Facts help provide confidence for those that are considering going electric."

Erin Baker, Autotrader’s Editorial Director, said: "We know confidence is key when it comes to families going electric, so I welcome this report highlighting the reliability of EVs which are less likely to break down than petrol and diesel cars. Data shows the vast majority of EV owners would never go back, and to support more people access the benefits of making the switch we’re investing over £7.5 billion, including £2 billion for the Electric Car Grant which has helped nearly 50,000 people save up to £3,750 when buying a new EV.”