Zapmap's Annual EV Owner Survey: Charging Habits and Driver Satisfaction

The survey conducted by Zap-Map, now in its seventh year, offers insights into the behaviours, attitudes, and satisfaction of 3,746 EV owners.

How Do EV Drivers Charge?

Respondents provided information on a wide range of topics such as access to home charging and popular public charging locations across the UK. The study highlights key factors influencing where and how drivers choose to charge their vehicles.

"Overall satisfaction continues to improve," according to the responses collected in October, while also highlighting areas needing improvement.

Key Takeaways

EV Owners Wouldn't Go Back to Petrol or Diesel

Fewer than 3% of EV drivers expressed interest in switching back to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Satisfaction remains very high with an average score of 87 out of 100. Key reasons include cost-effectiveness (78%), environmental benefits (73%), and better vehicle performance (65%).

The Public Charging Network Remains Essential

Over half (51%) use public chargers at least once a month despite 79% having dedicated home chargers. The average satisfaction rating for the UK's public charging network was only 64 out of 100 but showed improvement from the previous year.

"61 per cent of respondents said that public charging had improved over the past year," thanks to increased reliability and availability with a growth rate of chargers at 38% over the last year.

Charging Hubs and Motorway Services Are Popular Choices

The popularity of motorway services for long journeys is evident as they remain top choices for topping up with 58% usage reported. Usage of dedicated charging hubs has risen from 47% last year to 53%, reflecting an increase in rapid and ultra-rapid hub availability.

"There are currently 486 rapid charging hubs across the UK open to all EVs," marking an impressive increase from just 246 at the end of last year.

A Decline in Supermarket Charging Use

Sainsbury’s launched its own electric car charging brand; however, supermarket car park charger usage has dropped by 32%. Despite nearly doubling available charge points at supermarkets annually due to many removing free options, this trend persists.