Auto Trader, the UK’s largest automotive platform, together with ChargeUK and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), share update on their initiative combatting misinformation surrounding electric cars. The collection of user-friendly, simplified facts that offers a balanced and data-backed view of the reality of owning and driving electric cars has been updated from the launch version released November 2024. Updates include: the number of public charge points around the UK, which is now 75,675. The number of ultra rapid chargers is now 15,109, up from 14,711. the upfront price difference between new electric and petrol cars which has dropped from around 33% last year to 23% in March the share of used electric cars that are now under £20,000, now two in five (38%) up from one in three in November there are now 29 brand new electric cars with RRP under £30,000, compared to 21 last year potential annual savings have increased from £750 last time to £790 thanks to rising fuel costs Additionally, charge point tracking company Zapmap and the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) have committed to champion the initiative by promoting to their audiences, enabling The Facts to be seen by even more consumers and retailers. These facts clarify points such as how electric cars are greener, are no more likely to catch fire than an ICE car, and that the electric range and charging point availability is better than some might think. The information is available for consumers here: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/features/electric-cars-facts-and-figures . The data points will be regularly reviewed and updated, with new versions issued when required. This information is endorsed by the Department for Transport. New data from Auto Trader shows an increase in retailers stocking used electric vehicles, a sign of market confidence. Franchise retailers still dominate the used electric market, due to the young age profile of these cars, with 79% (3.4k) stocking at least one used electric car – a 7% year-on-year (YoY) increase. Whilst 17% (1.9k) independent retailers stock electric cars, this is just a 2% YoY increase, a much slower rate of growth. Despite consumer and retailer nervousness, 83% of current electric car owners said they would buy electric again. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Zero emission vehicles will drive our journey to net zero, which is why this Government is committed to accelerating the transition. “Ensuring consumers have clear, accurate information when deciding what kind of car to buy is essential. This work by industry is absolutely vital to boosting drivers’ confidence in zero emission vehicles, and I’m pleased to back it.” Jade Edwards, Head of Insights at Zapmap commented : “Zapmap welcomes the opportunity to be part of this co-ordinated effort to get the facts on the reality of charging out into the market. Through our app, we give confidence to current EV drivers when they are out and about, whilst our unrivalled charging data and insights gives the next wave of EV drivers the confidence to make the switch to electric.” Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) , commented: “NFDA is delighted to be a part of this industry-wide initiative to champion the facts about electric cars and tackle misinformation as the transition to electric accelerates. As the consumer-facing end of the industry, NFDA members have the professional knowledge and understanding in UK electric vehicle sales, with many accredited through NFDA’s Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA) scheme. They provide comprehensive guidance on EV purchases and offer expert after-sales support, with highly trained EV technicians to meet customers’ ongoing needs.” Erin Baker, Editorial Director at Auto Trader, commented : “We’re delighted to have the NFDA and Zapmap join us on our mission to provide more balanced and fact-based narratives to both retailers and consumers. We know a change as significant as electrification can leave lots of room for confusion, but we believe if the industry works together, we can help everyone feel confident as they electrify. One highlight of the recent update is the growth of affordable EVs – we need to make sure there’s an EV for everyone and two in five used electric cars now under £20,000 is a good sign.” A summary of the facts can be found here , we encourage them to be shared as widely as possible.