The United Kingdom has been ranked third in LeasePlan’s 2022 EV Readiness Index, with Norway ranking highest, followed by the Netherlands in second place. Czech Republic and Poland ranked lowest, and Greece had the most improved score compared to 2021.

The EV Readiness Index is an analysis of the preparedness of 22 European countries for the switch to electric vehicles. It is based on three factors: EV registrations, the maturity of EV infrastructure, and government incentives in each country.

The report concludes that a lack of available charging infrastructure continues to be a major roadblock preventing EV adoption across the continent, despite increased interest from European drivers in going EV.

The report finds that EV uptake increased significantly in almost all markets but that charging infrastructure is still lagging, creating a charging shortage as EV registrations rapidly increase. This highlights the urgent need for governments to invest in a robust and reliable public charging infrastructure across Europe.
     
The report finds that EVs are more affordable than ever. Cost competitiveness is mostly driven by comparatively lower energy prices for EVs (especially when compared to increased diesel and petrol fuel prices) and more beneficial taxation arrangements for EV drivers.

Tex Gunning, CEO of LeasePlan, said: “The total lack of government action on EV infrastructure is creating a European charging shortage. As EV prices come down and more drivers go electric, finding an available charging station is increasingly a nightmare. This report must be a wake-up call for policymakers across Europe: urgent investment is needed now in a comprehensive European charging infrastructure. Driving electric is one of the most effective ways we can all fight climate change, and governments need to make it easier, not harder, for everyone to make the switch.”