Scots drivers say electric vehicles are still too costly

MORE than half of drivers in Scotland are put off buying an electric vehicle because of the eye-watering price tags, a study showed yesterday.

The findings come as it was revealed that the vehicles have made up just 2 per cent of new registrations so far this year.

More than a third – 37 per cent – of drivers in Scotland would consider buying a so-called ‘EV’ as their next car.

But 55 per cent of drivers north of the Border told a Confused.com survey that they were put off by the price of electric vehicles – Tesla’s Model S can cost up to £127,000, while one of the least expensive, the Renault Zoe, is £20,670.

Amanda Stretton, the site’s motoring editor, said: ‘It’s not a case of if, but when electric cars will become more affordable and viable for the everyday driver.

‘While there are a number of helpful incentives which can help to bring down the cost of EVs, motorists in Scotland wanting to watch the pennies should consider sitting tight.

‘In five years’ time drivers should really start to notice a difference in the price tags of electric vehicles, as the cost of batteries comes down and more economical models enter the market.

‘In the meantime, those drivers who can afford to embrace electric early can still make savings – from £4,500 off the price using the plug in car grant, to shopping around for the best insurance.’

Electric cars are also expensive to insure, costing up to £370 more to cover than an average petrol or diesel vehicle.

However, the report has found that the few who can afford to invest in an electric vehicle can make significant savings.

For example, electric cars can save an average of £1,800 on fuel and road tax in three years, as well as savings on parking, which is free for EVs in many car parks.