Record low percentage of EV breakdowns due to running out of power recorded in June, says AA data

The percentage of electric vehicle breakdowns caused by vehicles running out of power reached a record low in June, according to new data from the AA. Just 1.4% of the EV callouts received by the breakdown recovery specialist last month were due to vehicle batteries either having limited or no charge. This is the lowest monthly figure on record and a significant decrease from previous years.

The AA attributed this decrease to a boost in the number and reliability of public chargers, higher quality charging support for customers, improved range on newer EVs, and better driver education and information. The company expects the annual figure to ultimately drop to 1%, equivalent to the proportion of petrol or diesel car breakdowns caused by running out of fuel.

While these findings are promising, consumer association Which? highlighted that more than two-thirds of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle owners who have used the UK’s public charging network are unhappy with it. This underscores the importance of continued investment in reliable and accessible public charging points to support more people in making the switch to electric vehicles.

Alfonso Martinez, UK managing director at ALD Automotive | LeasePlan UK, emphasized the need for greater access to reliable and affordable public charge points and further investment to expand the UK’s charging network. He also called for measures such as reducing VAT on public charging to incentivize EV ownership, especially for drivers without off-street parking.

With the government outlining its commitment to the EV sector, Martinez stressed the importance of greater joined-up thinking among local councils and the continued implementation of regulations to instill confidence in drivers around EVs. By addressing these challenges and investing in infrastructure, the UK can continue its momentum towards becoming a leader in the electric vehicle market.