Auto Trader, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and ChargeUK have launched a new initiative designed to combat misinformation surrounding EVs.
The group have created a collection of facts, offering a data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving EVs.
Erin Baker, editorial director at Auto Trader, said: “Electrification is a significant change and with change comes uncertainty and confusion and that’s why we’re trying to help share more balanced and fact-based narratives with both retailers and consumers to give everyone confidence to navigate their electric journey.
“Often this comes down to the fear of the unknown and this is clear when consumers tell us how much they love their electric cars.
“We’d encourage anyone unsure about electric vehicles to do their own research with unbiased, fact-based content – or better yet, why not find an electric car driver and chat to them. And if you haven’t driven one yet – do it, they are really changing the car game.”
Auto Trader research from April showed that mistruths repeated by the media were impacting consumer confidence in EVs.
Separate research from Auto Trader shows that 46% of retailers believe a lack of consumer confidence in EV technology is a significant barrier to adoption.
Despite consumer and retailer nervousness, 83% of current EV owners said they would buy electric again.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Thanks to manufacturer investment, drivers have a massive choice of EV models, and picking the right one for their needs depends on having facts, not fiction.
“More than a million motorists have already gone electric and been delighted by their decision, with many benefiting from lower running costs, an outstanding driving experience and a smaller carbon footprint.
“But making the switch can be daunting for some, given the need to consider charging as well as driving so a single source of truth can avoid any confusion. And that truth is that the time to go electric is now.”