Research from Lloyds Bank has found that 44% of UK homes are “unsuitable” for electric vehicle ownership.
Electric Vehicle registrations rose 38% in 2022 but those without garages, driveways or dedicated parking have no obvious place for that vital electric car charging point.
Lloyds Bank mortgage data shows that around 30% of people applying for a mortgage do not have a garage or space for a car. While the government has recently brought in new laws for housebuilders – which require them to ensure any new-build homes, workplaces and supermarkets have an electric charging point installed – the data does suggest that many people will remain unable to charge an electric vehicle at their place of residence.
Nick Williams, Transport Director at Lloyds Bank, said:
The growth we have seen in electric vehicle registrations is encouraging but, with many in the UK living in properties where installing a home charging port isn’t a viable option, having a reliable charging infrastructure is absolutely vital for the UK’s transition to net zero.
The government has made positive steps by ensuring new build homes are fully equipped to have charging facilities, but many will have to continue to rely on charging an electric vehicle somewhere other than at home. This means there remains a need for focused investment in public charging points in residential – and particularly rural – areas.
We’ll only make real progress in becoming a nation of sustainable drivers if we don’t leave anyone behind – no matter where they live in the country or their home set-up.
There are significant regional variations in views on charging infrastructure.
While the large proportion of people living in flats in London remains a charging challenge, residents of the capital tend to believe that charging coverage is sufficient (54%). In comparison, only a fifth (22%) of those living in the Midlands agree this is the case. Nationally, less than a third (30%) of people have a positive view on the availability of charging points.
The cost of living crisis is impacting many people’s driving decisions. Just under half (48%) of Brits are now driving less because of fuel costs, with three in 10 (30%) saying they have been forced to postpone buying their next vehicle, by an average of two years. For electric vehicles, this could mean future adoption may slow, as a fifth (18%) say they are now less likely to buy one, due to cost of living challenges.
The price of hardware and installation will likely be a consideration when it comes to installing a charging port for home use, at an average price of around £1,000.
