Electric Mobility: Growing Hesitation Towards Transition from Combustion Engines

Electric vehicles play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by producing zero CO2 emissions during operation. However, many drivers still do not consider electric cars in their plans for future vehicle purchases.

Recent findings from a Forsa survey commissioned by Targobank reveal that only 29% of drivers of combustion engine vehicles are contemplating a switch to electric or alternative powertrains, such as hybrids or hydrogen. This figure remains unchanged from the previous year, despite a higher interest in 2022 when 43% expressed a desire to transition. In 2023, this interest dropped to 36%. The online survey conducted in February included responses from 1,002 licensed drivers.

Several factors contribute to the reluctance to adopt electric vehicles. Key concerns include the high purchase price, limited driving range, and inadequate charging infrastructure. Additionally, many respondents expressed doubts regarding the longevity of batteries and questioned the environmental impact of electric vehicles.

When asked about their next vehicle purchase, around one-third of respondents (31%) indicated they would opt for gasoline-powered vehicles, maintaining the same level as last year's survey. Pure electric vehicles ranked second at 17%, unchanged from the previous year, while hybrid vehicles saw a rise to 19%, an increase of four percentage points. Diesel vehicles accounted for 14% of preferences, showing a slight increase of one percentage point.

Interestingly, 56% of participants believe that modern combustion engines are not necessarily less environmentally friendly than electric cars. This perception shows some evolution, as the percentage of those expressing this view has decreased by one point since 2024 and by ten points since 2023.