Sharp rise in EV interest on Autotrader following Middle East bombing

New car EV leads up 28% in less than a month
Used (0–5yr) EV leads up 15%
Used EVs are now taking 19.5% of all 0–5yr used car leads – the highest share on record, with new daily records being set. For context, EVs account for c.5% of all cars on the road
Fuel prices are still below 2022 extremes but triggering behavioural change: surging interest suggests concerns about future energy security/instability/price shocks are driving behaviour

Ian Plummer, Chief Customer Officer, Autotrader, the UK’s largest automotive marketplace commented:

Even though petrol prices aren’t anywhere near the extremes of 2022 yet, the Iran conflict has clearly moved fuel costs to the front of buyers’ minds. Our data shows a sharp rise in both new and used EV leads since the war began at the end of February, with used EV enquiries hitting record levels on the Autotrader marketplace.”

Key spokesperson

Ian Plummer

Chief Customer Officer

CONNECT

This isn’t just about price, it’s about confidence. When people feel that traditional fuel is vulnerable to global events, the appeal of electric becomes far stronger so the conflict is acting as a significant catalyst for EV interest across the UK market. That said, previous peaks in interest like in 2022 haven’t led to sustained increases in electric purchases, so there is still work to do to ensure consumers are confident that electric cars can fit their lifestyles.”