October 2025
As someone who’s spent a lifetime on the road and in the motoring world, I know how much excitement—and uncertainty—there is about electric vehicles (EVs). Drivers tell me they love the tech, but they’re also cautious.
That’s why I’m proud to introduce the AA’s first quarterly UK EV Readiness Index—a new, independent barometer of how practical and appealing EV ownership really is for drivers across the country.
What is the EV Readiness Index?
Our Index draws on AA data and expert sources to track the factors that matter most to drivers considering the switch to electric. We look at:
- The cost of new and used EVs
- Insurance costs
- Home and public charging costs and access
- The risk of running out of charge
- Roadside EV repair rates
Key Findings
Right now, the UK’s EV Readiness Rating stands at 47.5 out of 100. That means EVs are a great option for some, but there are still significant barriers for many drivers.
The biggest stumbling blocks? Upfront costs and charging access. Our polling shows battery health and resale values are also concerns for some.
Even with the Government’s Electric Car Grant of up to £3,750 for cars under £37,000, 38% of drivers say a new EV is still too expensive, and 24% say they’ll never buy one. Some 5% say the grant is making them consider an EV and 1% were already considering and will try to use the grant. This 6% is significant as generally just 10% of consumers buy new cars so to have 6% thinking about a new EV shows the grant is working.
What Drivers Are Saying
We asked nearly 15,000 AA members what would help them make the switch. The top answers were:
- A grant on used EVs
- Removing VAT on used EVs
- Interest-free loans for used EVs
Many also called for better charging infrastructure, free or reduced-cost home charger installation, and guarantees on battery life.
What Needs to Change?
At the AA, we’re supporting drivers at every stage—from learning to drive to roadside assistance and used car sales. But to make EVs a realistic choice for all, we need:
- Targeted incentives for used EVs
- Reduced VAT for on-street charging
- Faster planning and clearer signage for charging points
- More factual information campaigns
Looking Ahead
The switch to EVs is part of an automotive evolution, not a revolution. Our Index will track progress every quarter, and we’ll keep working with government, industry, and our members to ensure no driver is left behind in the electric revolution.
If you’d like to read the full article and see a short video, visit AA UK EV Readiness Index Let’s keep the conversation going—because the road to electric is one we’re all travelling together.