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UK electric vehicle adoption stalls as 54 per cent cite charging anxiety and 42 per cent worry about battery life

By Eve

Electric vehicle uptake in the UK is stalling despite strong interest, with research revealing a widening confidence gap among potential buyers. More than half of prospective EV owners (54 per cent) report anxiety about charging access, while 42 per cent remain uncertain about battery longevity and residual value. The hesitation is particularly acute in the second hand market, where buyers lack clarity on battery health and long term reliability.

Why it matters

Persistent charging infrastructure concerns directly affect demand forecasts for charge point operators and public procurement timelines. Addressing perceived network gaps and communicating battery durability will be critical to unlocking stalled EV sales and justifying further rollout investment.

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Original title
“Electric car adoption stalls as drivers put off by charging fears and battery concerns”
Published
14 April 2026 (date approximate)
Updated
22 September 2026

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