One in 3 electric drivers is considering returning to a petrol or diesel car. The reason? Changes in taxes are making electric driving more expensive. This and more is revealed in the annual EV and Driver Survey on electric cars in the Netherlands, partly conducted by RVO.
By the end of 2025, tax benefits for electric cars will be further phased out. Private drivers will then pay more road tax. For business drivers, electric driving will also become less attractive as the discount on the additional tax liability stops. Only 29% of participants in the EV and Driver Survey believe the government encourages electric driving.
Nearly half of new electric cars with subsidy
Subsidy appears to be important for electric drivers. 49% of people who drive a new electric car (private lease or private purchase) received a subsidy from the Electric Passenger Car Subsidy Scheme for Private Individuals (SEPP). 38% were not eligible for a subsidy and 3% had no interest in a subsidy.
Majority of respondents drive privately
Over 3,500 people with an electric car participated in the survey by the Association of Electric Drivers, University of Groningen, and RVO. Of the respondents, 67% drive a private electric car. Nearly three-quarters of the survey participants have a new electric car.
Better policy
This research shows what electric drivers find important. The information helps to better understand electric drivers. This way, the policy can align well with what these drivers need and why they drive electric.
On the website of the Association of Electric Drivers, you can read the full survey.