When asked if they would consider buying an electric vehicle as their next car, 70% of European drivers say they would. The most popular reason for drivers considering the change is the environmental benefits offered by a zero-emissions vehicle (49%).
OnePoll surveyed about 7,000 respondents from the UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, Italy and the Nordics (Norway, Sweden and Denmark) from 29th January 2021 to 23rd February 2021. The survey was conducted online using panel members who are credited to participate in surveys. Respondents who drive EV or ICE vehicles were targeted using screening questions and profile data to ensure the correct demographic was achieved. Specific quotas were set to ensure market representation.
The pan-European survey is Nissan’s most comprehensive investigation into the driving habits and charging experience of EV drivers to date. Dispelling many of the myths currently preventing drivers from making the switch, the research demonstrates that there are good reasons to change to an EV.
To understand what motivates or prevents drivers from switching to electric mobility, Nissan surveyed 7,000 motorists across Europe, split evenly between EV and ICE (internal combustion engine) motorists. The pan-European survey is Nissan’s most comprehensive investigation into the driving habits of EV drivers to date.
Initial findings released early this week uncovered that EV driver satisfaction is promisingly high, with 89% of EV drivers saying the switch to EV was the right decision. 74% feel more relaxed, and 77% find it smoother to drive than an ICE vehicle.
With 97% of EV drivers finding the transition from ICE to EV ‘as expected’ or ‘easier,’ it portrays a promising prospect for those willing to embark on their electrification journey.
Furthermore, the majority (70%) of motorists admit the range autonomy of their EV is better than expected before purchase. This counteracts the 58% of ICE owners who are not considering an EV because they believe they offer a low driving range and demonstrates the reality that owning an electric vehicle is highly positive.
Arnaud Charpentier, Region Vice President, Product Strategy and Pricing, Nissan AMIEO, said, “With this new research, we’re seeing first-hand that European drivers are embracing electrification. Just as they are continuing to explore what electric vehicles have to offer, we are committed to showing them the vast benefits of electric mobility and how easy actually it is to make the switch. From low running costs to surprising performance, electric cars like the Nissan LEAF have transformed the everyday driving experience for the better.”
Despite a contrast emerging among the EV motorists and ICE drivers, the importance of sustainability remains clear across the board – nearly 85% of all drivers surveyed place value on being environmentally friendly.
Power Of Switching
The survey portrays electric driving as enjoyable and desirable; 89% of European EV drivers are happy with their experience and 78% agree it is better than expected.
In addition, over one third (34%) of EV drivers made the decision to switch thanks to the advanced technology offering in electric cars, demonstrating the key role these features play in enhancing enjoyment behind the wheel.
Almost one third (31%) of ICE drivers considering an EV also confirm the advanced technology is tempting them to convert, making its role in the electric revolution more prominent than ever.
Climate Control
Research found nearly half (49%) of ICE drivers are considering the switch as electric vehicles are environmentally friendly, with 40% of EV drivers having switched for the same reason; 33% of EV drivers made the decision due to the zero-emissions nature of electric vehicles, further highlighting the importance of eco-friendly mobility.
And with good results, as over the past decade Nissan LEAF owners have prevented more than 2.5 million tonnes of CO2 from being emitted into the atmosphere globally.
To further demonstrate Nissan’s commitment to address climate challenges, the company recently unveiled its path to become carbon neutral by 2050 across products and operations. For Europe, electrified vehicles will represent about half of the sales by the end of FY23 and expanding renewable energy generation at its Sunderland plant to account for 20% of its energy needs - enough to build every single zero-emission Nissan LEAF sold in Europe.
Fuel Saving
The prospect of low running costs is tempting 31% of ICE drivers who are considering the switch to an EV. Reassuringly, after having made the switch, 83% of EV drivers admit their EV has lower running costs than expected.
To allow all drivers, including ICE drivers, the potential savings of switching to electric, Nissan is launching a new online fuel-saving calculator, for customers to calculate how much switching to a LEAF could save them over time. By selecting the relevant powertrain, fuel and electricity price, one can simulate the potential savings of switching to a fully EV.