New data reveals many Europeans struggle to afford electric cars – ACEA

Despite EU legislative efforts to reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles, there is a notable lack of initiatives at both European and national level to accelerate market uptake of electric cars. ACEA’s latest data on electric charging vehicles (ECVs) confirms that affordability remains a major obstacle for European consumers, with many being forced to refrain from purchasing electric vehicles.

Electric cars represent a only 9% or less of the market share in more than half of the EU member states. These countries are mainly concentrated central and oriental, and southern Europe, where the average net income is €13,000. In contrast, the highest shares (30% and more) are found in only five Northern and Western European countries when net income exceeds €32,000.

These latest figures are a pertinent reminder that the lack of consumer incentives to buy cleaner and greener vehicles is hindering the huge potential of Europe’s electric car market. The lack of enabling conditions, including access to charging infrastructure, it also exacerbates market share disparities between EU member states and regions.

The European automotive industry has invested significantly in electric vehicle technology. Electrification is the most efficient way to minimize road transport carbon footprintcut down pollutant emissions and improve air qualitybut accessibility issues are holding back this much-needed transition.

Decision makers must now act accordingly by establishing holistic enabling conditions. Speed ​​up the installation of the electric vehicle charging points across the continent, especially in countries where there is a noticeable lack of infrastructure, is just one such measure. Besides, purchase incentiveswhich help to alleviate the affordability challenges faced by European consumers, can further stimulate Europe’s transition to a net zero future.

Find out more about ACEA’s work on electric vehicles here.

Electric cars account for just 9% or less of market share in more than half of EU member states. These countries are mainly concentrated in central and eastern and southern Europe, where the average net income is 13,000 euros.

Editorial note

ECVs include vehicles powered by electric batteries (battery electric vehicles or BEVs) and vehicles that run partially on electric batteries and petrol/diesel (plug-in hybrid vehicles or PHEVs). ECVs do not include fuel cell vehicles that use hydrogen (H2) and oxygen, also known as fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).