Bridgestone survey shows 26 per cent of UK drivers now rule out buying an EV, up from 17 per cent in 2025

A Bridgestone consumer survey found that 26 per cent of UK motorists say they will never buy an electric vehicle, a rise from 17 per cent in 2025 and returning to 2024 levels. Battery longevity and replacement costs remain the top concern for 55 per cent of respondents, while 50 per cent worry about charging costs, 44 per cent cite range and purchase price, and 43 per cent believe there are not enough charging points. Only 16 per cent plan to buy an EV within 12 months, though 53 per cent expect to do so within five years.

Why it matters: The survey underscores persistent infrastructure and cost barriers that continue to slow EV adoption among UK drivers, signalling that charge point operators and policymakers must address availability, speed and pricing concerns to meet longer term demand. The data also highlights that nearly half of potential buyers still see the charging network as inadequate, pointing to ongoing procurement and deployment gaps.