...By Larry John for TDPel Media.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has revised its estimates for the growth of pure electric new car registrations in the UK.
The SMMT predicts that these vehicles will make up 18.4% of new car registrations this year, down from its earlier forecast of 19.7% in January.
The decrease is due to a lack of charging infrastructure and high energy costs, which the SMMT anticipates will soften demand for electric vehicles.
Additionally, the organization has revised its market share estimate for pure electric new cars next year from 23.3% to 22.6%.
The UK government plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, which was aimed at boosting demand for electric vehicles.
However, this downgrade in the SMMT’s growth forecast highlights the importance of ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to support the transition to electric vehicles.
Without sufficient charging infrastructure and affordable energy costs, the uptake of electric vehicles may not meet the government’s targets.
The UK has made strides in expanding its network of charging stations, but more needs to be done to make charging easier and more convenient for drivers.
For example, implementing fast-charging stations at popular destinations such as supermarkets and shopping centers could encourage more drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
The SMMT’s revised forecast is a reminder that the transition to electric vehicles is a complex process that involves multiple factors.
While the UK government’s 2030 deadline is ambitious, there is still work to be done to ensure that the infrastructure and policies are in place to support the growth of the electric vehicle market.
