Autotrader's No Driver Left Behind Report highlights widening EV opportunity

The latest No Driver Left Behind Report 2026 explores how the UK’s electric vehicle transition is shifting from early adopters to the mainstream, and where gaps remain.

In the early years, EV buyers tended to be over 55, affluent, male and tech focused, typically purchasing brand new premium models. Today, with 1.7 million EVs on UK roads, that profile is changing as the used market expands and prices become more accessible.

Encouragingly, 62% of drivers now say they would consider an EV for their next car, signalling that electric models are increasingly viewed as a practical, everyday choice rather than a niche option.

However, the income gap is stark. Only 48% of households earning under £40,000 would consider an EV, compared with 84% of those earning above £80,000. That disparity persists despite 70% of lower income households having access to home charging, suggesting affordability rather than infrastructure is the key issue.

Price remains the biggest obstacle. Almost two fifths of lower income buyers typically shop for cars under £5,000, yet just 1% of used EVs are available at that price point.

Read the full report here.

Explore some affordable EV options below:
£20k Geely
Dacia Spring gains EV grant

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