Dealers in the UK are advocating for government support to boost the used electric vehicle (EV) market, as revealed by the latest Startline Used Car Tracker findings. The survey, conducted by APD Global Research for Startline Motor Finance, highlighted the pressing need for measures to enhance the viability of EVs in the country.
Challenges in the Used EV Market
Of the 321 consumers and 62 dealers surveyed, a significant 45% expressed their support for an increase in on-street charging points to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles. This highlights a crucial infrastructure gap that needs to be addressed to encourage more consumers to consider EVs as a viable option for their transportation needs.
Furthermore, 42% of respondents voiced their concerns about the influx of Chinese EVs in the market and called for tariffs or other protective measures to safeguard the domestic car market. This reflects the need for a level playing field for all players in the industry to ensure fair competition and market stability.
The shortage of skilled workers in the automotive industry was also a key concern, with 42% of dealers emphasizing the need for more training options to address this issue. The lack of qualified personnel poses a significant challenge to the industry’s growth and innovation, making it imperative for the government to invest in training programs to bridge the skills gap.
Government Support for the EV Market
Startline Motor Finance CEO Paul Burgess underscored the dealers’ call for government subsidies to incentivize consumer adoption of electric vehicles. He highlighted the importance of government backing in stimulating the growth of the used EV market and emphasized the need for policies that promote sustainability and innovation in the automotive sector.
Burgess also noted a discrepancy between dealers and consumers regarding the importance of a used EV battery health check. While consumers overwhelmingly supported the idea of having detailed information on a used EV’s battery health, only 35% of dealers favored government-backed battery health checks. This disparity underscores the need for a collaborative approach between industry stakeholders and policymakers to address consumer concerns and promote transparency in the used EV market.
The demand for a government-approved and administered used battery EV health check was echoed by over a third (35%) of dealers, indicating a growing awareness of the importance of battery health in ensuring the longevity and performance of EVs. This highlights the need for standardized protocols and regulations to ensure the quality and reliability of used EVs in the market.
Addressing Industry Challenges
In addition to subsidies and battery health checks, dealers also highlighted the need for improvements in the economy to boost consumer confidence and advocate for lower business rates. These measures are essential for creating a favorable business environment that encourages investment and growth in the automotive sector.
The importance of skilled personnel in the motor industry was another key takeaway from the survey, with 31% of dealers emphasizing the need for training programs to attract and retain talent in the industry. The shortage of skilled workers poses a significant barrier to innovation and growth in the automotive sector, making it imperative for the government to invest in education and training initiatives to address this challenge.
In conclusion, the findings of the Startline Used Car Tracker underscore the pressing need for government support to stimulate the used EV market in the UK. Dealers are calling for a range of measures, including subsidies, infrastructure improvements, and training programs, to enhance the viability of EVs and drive consumer adoption. By working together with industry stakeholders and policymakers, the government can play a crucial role in promoting sustainability, innovation, and growth in the automotive sector.
