Policy & regulationPolicy & MarketUnited Kingdom

EV leasing enquiries jump 36 per cent amid Middle East fuel price concerns

By Eve

Octopus Electric Vehicles reported a 36 per cent rise in EV leasing enquiries since late February, driven by drivers seeking cost certainty as Middle East conflict pushes fuel prices higher. Autotrader confirmed used EV enquiries reached record levels on its marketplace during the same period, while sister firm Octopus Energy saw solar enquiries climb 27 per cent. The surge reflects consumer concern over fuel cost volatility linked to geopolitical instability.

Why it matters: A sharp uptick in EV demand signals accelerating fleet electrification and stronger business cases for workplace and destination charging infrastructure. Sustained interest will increase pressure on charge point operators to expand capacity and on procurers to secure sites ahead of competition.

Source: https://birminghammail.co.uk/ — original title: “EV interest soars as drivers rush to ditch petrol and diesel cars

Published 3 April 2026 (date approximate)

Updated 18 July 2026