More than half of UK car buyers say their next car will be electric or hybrid, according to the latest Motors Consumer Insight Panel.

The study surveyed 2,000 car-buying decision-makers and shows growing confidence in electrified vehicles as more models, brands, and charging options enter the market.

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A Market Moving Away From Petrol and Diesel‍

Motors’ research reveals a sharp shift in buyer preferences:

• 23% expect their next car to be fully electric (the highest level ever recorded).
• 30% plan to choose a hybrid next time, up from just 12% who currently own one.
• Petrol ownership is expected to fall from 62% to 36% in the next buying cycle.
• Diesel could decline from 19% to just 10%.
  

That means internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are set to make up only 46% of future car choices, compared with 81% today, marking a major turning point for the UK car market.

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Why Buyers Are Changing Direction‍

The research points to several key drivers behind the rise in EV and hybrid demand:

• A wider choice of electric and hybrid models available across price points.
• Greater visibility of EV charging infrastructure, both public and private.
• Falling concerns about costs, maintenance, and convenience.
• Ongoing environmental awareness and the drive to reduce running costs.
  

Together, these trends show that buyers are more open than ever to considering alternatives to petrol and diesel, and are gaining confidence in the practicality of electric ownership.

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Confidence in EVs Continues to Grow‍

The study also found steady improvements in consumer confidence around electric vehicles:

• Confidence in buying an EV rose from 45% to 47% year-on-year.
• Fewer buyers are concerned about public charging access (down from 44% to 38%).
• Worries about total ownership costs dropped from 42% to 32%.
• Charging cost concerns fell from 35% to 27%.

However, some challenges remain:

• Concerns about vehicle range increased slightly from 34% to 36%.
• Servicing and repair costs rose from 24% to 26%.
  

Overall, the data reflects a market that’s becoming more confident, but still values reassurance and reliable infrastructure.

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Hybrid Vehicles Bridging the Gap‍

Hybrid cars continue to act as a natural stepping stone for many buyers. They combine the familiarity of petrol power with the efficiency of electric driving, helping hesitant buyers transition gradually.

Motors’ research shows:

• EVs are most popular with new-car buyers (56%).
• Hybrids appeal more to used (33%) and nearly-new (29%) buyers.
  

This balance suggests a diverse market where different types of electrification are finding their place, from first-time hybrid drivers to confident EV adopters.

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Building the Infrastructure to Match Demand‍

As EV and hybrid demand accelerates, the importance of accessible charging grows. Reliable EV charging points at home, work, and across public spaces are key to supporting this transition.

Voltari helps homeowners and businesses prepare by providing safe, compliant, and efficient EV charger installs, making it easier for more people to embrace electric driving with confidence.

If you’re planning your next car purchase — or preparing to go electric — explore how Voltari can help. Visit our EV charging page or head to our insights hub to learn more about EV charging and installation.