Electric Cars Could Outnumber Diesels By 2030

Published Date: 13th Apr 2021

Electric Cars Will Outnumber Diesels By 2030

According to a survey by the AA, drivers expect the number of electric cars on UK roads to outnumber diesels by 2030.

The prediction could mean as many as I in 5 cars on UK roads will be electric by 2030, while petrol cars are still predicted to be the most prevalent, accounting for an estimated 30%.

The survey also revealed that drivers fully expect a significant increase in other ‘alternative fuelled vehicles’ like hydrogen and bio-diesel power and a considerable upturn in the number of hybrid vehicles on UK roads.

Traditionally full electric and plug-in hybrid cars have been considerably more expensive than their petrol and diesel counterparts, but we are now seeing prices begin to come down with some attractive new electric car deals available in 2021.

The increased competition in the electric car sector means we are now seeing vehicles like the new MG5 EV which offers a full electric car in a traditional, spacious estate model available for under £22,000. Other smaller full EV cars the like the SEAT Mii (currently available for under £20,000), Renault Zoe and Fiat 500 EV are making electric cars more attainable for the masses.

The UK government has been a keen promoter of clean vehicles and is committed to investing heavily in electric car infrastructure and research. Boris Johnson, a keen advocator and supporter of environmental issues, has also brought forward the ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars from 2040 to 2030.

The 2030 ban on petrol and diesel cars means that you will be able to drive a petrol or diesel vehicle, but there will be no more sales of new petrol or diesel cars beyond the deadline.

As we move closer to the 2030 deadline you’ll find more inner cities will introduce their own low or emissions free zones like London’s ULEZ, meaning extra levies for petrol and diesels car drivers.

Taking into account other factors, like the increasing number of more affordable electric cars we should see an acceleration in the switch to zero emissions vehicles on UK roads.

The government has also stated that some full hybrids/plug-in hybrids will be allowed to be sold up to 2035. The exact details are yet to be decided but they will need to be able to travel a significant distance in full EV/zero emissions mode.