A positive electric vehicle (EV) rental experience could encourage 44.2% of business drivers to switch to electric motoring, according to new research by Europcar Mobility Group UK.
The findings highlight the potential role of rental in helping businesses and drivers gain practical experience of EVs as the UK moves towards zero-emission vehicles. Europcar commissioned the survey following the announcement of the Government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate consultation and will include the results in its response.
The research also identified key concerns surrounding the transition to electric motoring. Battery range was the biggest issue for business drivers, cited by 47.3% of respondents, followed by electricity and charging costs (41.4%), vehicle purchase or leasing costs (36%), public charging point availability (34.3%) and charging times (33.9%).
Meanwhile, 39% supported incentives to increase EV rental availability, allowing drivers and businesses to test electric vehicles before committing to a purchase or long-term lease. Cost remains a consideration, with 38.2% saying price parity with petrol or diesel vehicles would encourage them to rent an EV.
Tom Middleditch, Head of B2B Marketing and Sustainability spokesperson at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said: “Rental gives employers a practical way to introduce colleagues to electric driving without requiring an immediate purchase or long-term lease commitment. It allows businesses to assess how an EV performs on actual work journeys, including whether range and charging requirements fit employees’ routes and schedules.”
Tom Middleditch continued: “The research also found that understanding of the ZEV Mandate itself is limited. More than a quarter do not know what impact it will have on people who drive for work, while a third expect a negative impact and just a fifth expect a positive one. Businesses need practical evidence to inform their transition plans. Testing EVs against actual routes, mileage and charging patterns can help employers assess suitability, identify the support drivers need and shape fleet and travel policies with greater confidence.”
