Car buyers are increasingly looking beyond petrol and diesel, with hybrid and electric vehicles now leading future purchase plans, according to a new consumer survey, Motor Trade News reported.
A study by MOTORS & Cazoo found that 55 per cent of respondents expect to choose a hybrid or fully electric vehicle for their next car. The findings are based on the latest Consumer Insight Panel survey, which covered 2,001 people planning to buy a car.
The survey showed that 45 percent of buyers still intend to opt for vehicles powered by traditional engines. Petrol remains the most popular single choice at 36 per cent, followed closely by hybrids at 30.5 per cent. Diesel continues to lose favour, with just 9.5 per cent of respondents planning to buy a diesel car.
Interest in fully electric vehicles has reached its highest level so far, with 24 percent of buyers saying their next car is likely to be electric. However, confidence varies depending on whether the vehicle is new or used.
Nearly half of respondents said they felt comfortable buying a new electric vehicle, rising sharply among those who are already seriously considering one. In contrast, fewer than one-third said they would feel confident purchasing an electric vehicle that is at least two years old. Confidence levels were higher among men and among buyers aged between 25 and 44.
Lucy Tugby, marketing director at MOTORS & Cazoo, said the findings point to a clear shift in buyer preferences away from petrol and diesel cars. She said confidence remains a key factor in the move towards electric vehicles, particularly in the used car market.
She added that car dealers have an important role to play in addressing buyer concerns, especially as more electric vehicles begin to enter the second-hand market.
The survey also found mixed views on government incentives such as the Electric Car Grant and similar schemes offered by manufacturers. Only 35 per cent of respondents said such incentives would influence them to consider an electric vehicle. Among buyers already considering an EV, more than half said they would prioritise choosing a car that best meets their needs rather than one that qualifies for a discount or grant.
Tugby said the findings suggest that financial incentives are having a limited impact on purchasing decisions, with practical considerations playing a bigger role for most buyers.
