According to research by JudgeService, the slow retail uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) is set to continue because most buyers want financial incentives before they commit to purchasing.

The dealer review platform polled the views of 1,000 car buyers and found 81% think the best way for the government to increase the uptake of EVs is by introducing incentives, including lower tax or a scrappage scheme.

While more than two-thirds expected the Government to further water down its Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate which targets EVs to account for 28% of all new car sales for this year.

However, buyers were divided on their views of the Government’s ban on the sale of new combustion engine and hybrid cars from 2035, the move is supported by 35% but opposed by 43%, while 19% are undecided.

Neil Addley, managing director of JudgeService, said: “Retail car buyers have absolutely no financial incentive to make the switch to EVs.

“New retail EV sales are tracking woefully behind where they need to be to hit the government’s mandated target, yet it has applied VED* on all EVs and slapped the Expensive Car Supplement on models costing over £40,000.

“Although the Government has previously ruled out a scrappage scheme and tax cuts, if they want to achieve net zero they need a rethink.

“Starting with a more appropriate higher starting price for the Expensive Car Supplement and cutting the VAT on public charging from 20% to 5%, to match the domestic rate, are both no brainers which could stimulate retail demand during the second half of the year.  

“Our research identifies the positive impact financial incentives could have on EV uptake, as many prospective buyers support the transition to electric. The message to government is clear. Car buyers want less stick and more carrot.”