Motorists unclear on electric cars

21/11/11

By Adele Forrest

Electric cars are leaving many motorists confused, which could be the reason why sales of the environmentally friendly vehicles have not lit up the market.

Out of 3,161 people questioned in a new survey by GfK Automotive, just 8 per cent said they would buy an electric car. However 44 per cent of those said they thought the cars were priced around the same as a standard car, when they can cost as much as £25,000. A £5,000 government grant can help with the cost of buying an electric car.

Out of drivers keen to buy, 60 per cent thought the cars needed charging for two hours, when they can in fact take up to six hours. And 52 per cent said they thought the cars would need charging after 200 miles. However in reality it would need charging after about 100 miles.

GfK Automotive managing director Francisco Lopez said: "Only when consumers have a good understanding of the practicalities of owning electric cars can they realistically be expected to start purchasing them."

Of those not interested in purchasing an electric car, 63 per cent were put off by the price, 59 per cent were worried about the battery-charging periods and 75 per cent were deterred by the limited battery time.