One in Four UK Drivers Rules Out Buying an Electric Vehicle

More than one in four UK motorists now say they will never buy an electric vehicle, according to consumer research commissioned by Bridgestone. The proportion has risen from 17% in 2025 to 26% this year, suggesting that persistent concerns about batteries, charging and vehicle costs are continuing to affect private demand.

Consumer confidence loses ground

The survey found that only 16% of respondents plan to purchase an electric vehicle within the next 12 months.

Battery longevity and replacement costs remained the most common concern, cited by 55% of motorists. Charging costs worried 50%, while 44% raised concerns about both driving range and the initial purchase price.

Public charging also remains a barrier. Some 43% of respondents said there were not enough charging points, while 41% were concerned about charging times.

The results indicate that greater vehicle availability has not removed longstanding consumer doubts. Similar concerns around affordability, charging access and battery transparency have also appeared in wider UK research.

However, the longer-term findings were more positive. Bridgestone said 53% of motorists expected to buy an EV within five years, with another 7% undecided.

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Why the findings matter for tyre businesses

Slower private adoption could affect how quickly EV-specific replacement demand develops across tyre retailers and wholesalers.

Electric vehicles place different demands on tyres because of their weight, torque delivery and requirements for efficiency and low road noise. However, manufacturers are increasingly developing products suitable for electric, hybrid and combustion vehicles rather than maintaining separate ranges.

That approach has become more visible across the market. Tyre News recently reported on Goodyear’s EV-ready identification system, which aims to make product selection and stock management clearer for retailers.

The industry is also investing in consumer awareness. Hankook’s expanded UK electric vehicle event programme shows how tyre manufacturers are seeking direct contact with motorists considering electrified vehicles.

Confidence remains the central issue

Drew Chapman, North Region Consumer Sales Director at Bridgestone, said the research showed that drivers still had genuine questions about electrification.

“While some of the barriers are gradually reducing, issues such as battery life, charging costs and infrastructure remain front of mind for many motorists,” Chapman said.

He added that the automotive sector had made progress but still needed to build consumer confidence.

For tyre retailers, the findings reinforce the need for clear advice rather than purely product-led messaging. Motorists may need guidance on load ratings, tyre pressure, replacement intervals and the role rolling resistance plays in vehicle efficiency.

Retailers must also be prepared for a mixed vehicle parc. Electric vehicle adoption may increase over time, but petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles will remain an important part of replacement demand.

Bridgestone’s EV-ready position

Bridgestone describes its current passenger tyre portfolio as EV-ready, meaning products can be fitted to compatible electric and combustion vehicles.

Its EV-ready products use the company’s ENLITEN technology platform. Bridgestone says the platform supports lower rolling resistance, resource efficiency and adaptation to electrified vehicle requirements. Its UK information page identifies the Turanza 6 and Turanza All Season 6 among the relevant products.

The survey provides Bridgestone with a consumer context for that product position. However, its wider significance lies in the gap between long-term interest and immediate purchase intent.

For the tyre trade, that gap points to gradual rather than uniform change. Businesses will need to support EV growth while continuing to serve motorists using conventional and hybrid vehicles.

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Tagged with: Bridgestone, electric vehicle adoption, EV tyres, UK motorists, EV charging, battery costs, replacement tyres, rolling resistance, ENLITEN technology, Turanza 6, electric mobility

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