AM's Spotlight on Electric Vehicle Retailing is published now

A new digital report examining some of the key aspects of EV dealerships has been published for AM-online readers.

The Spotlight on Electric Vehicle Retailing report, which is free to read here, touches on aspects including how dealerships can prepare for investment in charging systems, strategies around sales of used EVs, and consumer attitudes to EVs and steps to help them be better informed.

The chapters inside include the must-haves of an EV dealership that help create a new mindset, expert advice on understanding a growing variety of chargers and infrastructure, advice on building a reputation as a used EV expert before you get left behind, and a exploration of some of the tactics car manufacturers and dealers are using to convert curious consumers into EV owners.

Editor's letter

Manufacturers and their UK franchised dealer networks are being charged with convincing the public that electric vehicles are their future. It’s no easy task, as we’re seeing this year.

Now that the early adopters have already embraced zero emissions motoring, it falls to knowledgeable, trusted motor retailers and their carmaker partners to win over the mainstream motorist.

After all, the new UK Government remains committed to reducing transport carbon emissions and the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV)Mandate sets out clear objectives for the country’s new car and van markets. Manufacturers must play the EV game well to avoid harsh penalties.

In the consumer’s favour, this is leading to discounts and finance support, in retail, Motability and fleet sectors, that will help the ‘considerers’ to see a stronger case for electric vehicle purchase.

Rapid initial depreciation of EVs is bringing nearly new cars into more affordable territory too, which is good news for the many motorists who are EV curious.

The challenge for dealers, nevertheless, is to convert that curiosity into buying intention quickly enough while there’s good margin in their stock.

At the same time, franchised dealerships are managing their own buying intentions – what and where should they invest in charging facilities to meet the future needs of their own operations without blowing the budget.

Thankfully, automotive's business leaders are experts at adapting and ensuring their teams and their customers have what is needed to progress to a zero emission future.