EV Misinformation Persists Among Combustion-Engine Car Owners, Survey Reveals

A significant knowledge gap persists among drivers of conventional vehicles when it comes to understanding electric vehicles, according to new research that suggests misinformation may be hampering the transition to cleaner transportation.

A recent survey commissioned by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) think tank and conducted by YouGov revealed that many motorists continue to hold misconceptions about electric vehicles that directly impact their purchasing decisions. The study polled 1,002 non-EV drivers about basic electric vehicle facts, with concerning results.

More than half of respondents scored just two or fewer correct answers out of ten questions about electric vehicles. Only five percent of participants managed to answer eight or more questions correctly, highlighting widespread confusion about the technology.

One of the most prevalent misconceptions involves vehicle safety. Nearly half of those surveyed incorrectly believe that electric vehicles are more fire-prone than their internal combustion counterparts, with less than a quarter recognizing this claim as false. Fire safety data from insurers and safety organizations consistently shows that EVs are no more likely to catch fire than conventional vehicles, and in many cases present lower fire risks.

The survey findings establish a clear correlation between misinformation and purchasing intent. Participants who scored poorly on the EV knowledge test were approximately 17 times less likely to consider an electric vehicle for their next purchase compared to their better-informed counterparts. Conversely, those with accurate information about EVs were roughly three times more likely to make the switch from petrol or diesel for their next vehicle.

“What we’re seeing is a direct relationship between accurate information and consumer choices,” said a spokesperson for the ECIU. “When people understand the reality of electric vehicles rather than the myths, they’re significantly more open to considering them.”

Particularly concerning is the indication that certain misconceptions appear to be gaining traction rather than diminishing. The ECIU’s previous research from earlier in 2024 found that 41 percent of non-EV drivers believed electric cars were more likely to catch fire than petrol vehicles, but that figure has now risen to 46 percent in the latest survey.

The persistence and apparent growth of such misinformation comes at a critical time for the automotive industry. Manufacturers are investing billions in electric vehicle development to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations, while governments across Europe are establishing timelines to phase out new combustion engine vehicle sales.

Market analysts suggest that addressing these knowledge gaps is essential for both environmental goals and for automakers who have committed to electric vehicle transitions. Several major manufacturers have already announced plans to become predominantly or entirely electric in the coming decade.

The findings underscore the need for more effective education campaigns about electric vehicles from both industry and government sources. Misconceptions about range, charging infrastructure, battery longevity, and now safety concerns continue to create barriers to adoption despite significant technological advances in recent years.

Industry observers note that as the electric vehicle market matures and more drivers gain first-hand experience with the technology, some misconceptions may naturally fade. However, active efforts to combat misinformation appear necessary to accelerate the transition to electric transportation that many climate and air quality policies depend upon.

The ECIU has called for more transparent information campaigns that directly address common misconceptions about electric vehicles, suggesting that improved consumer understanding could significantly impact adoption rates as manufacturers continue to expand their electric offerings.