Auto Trader and Zapmap reveal area with highest level of EV demand

The North West has seen the most growth in new EV interest since 2021, according to Auto Trader.

In 2019, nine in ten of the EV hotspots were in London. This new growth in the North Weest correlates with a strong growth in charge points, according Zapmap.

Ian Plummer, commercial director at Auto Trader, said: “Whilst we know price is a big barrier, confidence in being able to charge up whenever and wherever you need is also key to consumer adoption and this data shows that the amazing work being done by the charging industry is really paying off.

“However, more hard work will be required by the industry if EVs are to account for 22% of new car sales by the end of the year, as required by the ZEV Mandate.

“The discounts on offer from manufacturers to tempt new car buyers are working to generate more interest as we’ve seen a 20% rise in new car advert views on our platform in July.”

The North West also topped the list for regional growth of 50kW+ high-powered charge points, with a 73% YoY increase, followed by the South West (71%) and East of England (64%).

This growth meant an additional 543 devices are available for EV drivers in the North West.

Jade Edwards, Head of Insights at Zapmap, said: “This is clearly providing green-minded drivers with the confidence they need to make the switch to an electric car.

“What’s more, as our annual survey of 4,000+ electric car drivers tells us, nine out of 10 people never look back once they’ve made the switch to an EV. It’s not just the future that’s electric – it’s right here and now!”

Auto Trader research shows 37% of consumers have reservations about the lack of public charging infrastructure in the UK but pricing is the biggest barrier to electrification.

Average new car prices have increased 24% since 2021. EV prices have increased by 35%, growing from £35,226 to £50,175 in 2024.