Number of ‘out of charge’ EV breakdowns declines

The proportion of electric vehicles running out of charge in the UK has dropped to the lowest ever this year, according to AA Cars.

The figures show ‘out of charge’ EV breakdowns are at a record low in 2024 of less than 2% (1.85%). The rolling 12-month figure for 2023 was 2.26%. In 2015, the proportion of ‘out of charge’ EVs was running at 8.26% and has been on a downward trend.

Edmund King, AA president, said: “The AA’s latest figures show that less than 2% of EV breakdowns are for ‘out of charge’ which suggests range anxiety should be a thing of the past.

“Many of the ‘out of charge’ breakdowns aren’t on zero charge but are either low on charge or experiencing technical problems such as the vehicle charge point covers sticking.

“In the last eight years the proportion of EVs running out of charge has dropped by about 80% which is due to an increase in the number of chargers and their reliability; better charge post support for customers; improved range on newer EVs; and better driver education and information.”

The AA deals with around 8,000 breakdowns each day but only deals with 5 or 6 out of charge vehicles per day.  Often the vehicles are not ‘out of charge’ but are low on charge, or not able to charge due to technical problems.

The top 30% of breakdown faults for EVs are almost identical to ICE vehicles – tyres, wheels and the 12V battery.

King said: “We understand why many drivers have been hesitant about switching to EVs as it is a major change, but it is important that their decisions are based on accurate information.

“Once drivers have made the switch, the vast majority enjoy the ride and won’t go back. Now is a brilliant time to switch as both new and used EVs are massively discounted, full of exciting tech, and for those who can charge at home, the economics and savings are a no-brainer.”