New research suggests that today's new drivers are the first generation ready to go electric from day one, as petrol is compared to being as outdated as using a landline.
The research from E.ON Next reveals that 55% of 17 to 20-year-old learner drivers want their first car to be an EV, as almost a quarter (23%) say owning a petrol car is as outdated as using a landline.
According to the study, young drivers cite low day-to-day running costs (20%) as one of the main reasons electric is the way to go, with over half (56%) agreeing having an EV is a money saver.
Meanwhile, being able to charge at home (19%), and not needing to visit the petrol station regularly (18%), are among the other reasons EVs hold such strong appeal amongst the younger generation.
A fifth (21%) report they can’t ever see themselves driving a petrol car, while almost two-thirds (63%) say petrol and diesel cars will disappear in their lifetime. Research reveals petrol cars are fast becoming outdated, as over a third of young drivers (36%) say petrol cars are old-fashioned. Almost a quarter (24%) report they wouldn’t buy a new petrol or diesel car, with over half (53%) agreeing they’ll be the last generation ever to routinely drive them.
Stats show parents are helping make young drivers’ electric ambitions a reality, with 41% saying they’ve had support from a parent or guardian to get an EV on the road. Meanwhile, over a third (36%) of young people are actively encouraging their parents to go electric too, and almost one in three (29%) say they’ve already influenced them to make the switch.
EV expert and presenter Robert Llewellyn said: “The really striking thing is that this generation isn't growing up with the assumption that their first car will be petrol. They're looking at what's available today and making a practical choice. There are more electric vehicles to choose from than ever before, more affordable ways to get behind the wheel, and the opportunity to keep running costs down by charging at home. For many young drivers, going electric isn't a statement about the future; it's simply the option that makes the most sense today.”
