Research conducted by Jardine Motor Group suggests that 60% of UK motorists remain unconvinced by electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), despite a 12.7% rise in sales of  to the end of April.

The research, based on a survey of 2,000 motorists conducted via OnePoll, was designed to establish what would convince motorists to “make the switch”.

It revealed evidence that 70% of UK drivers would consider EV if new-build homes had chargers installed, while 60% felt their employer should offer charging facilities.

However, the research also highlighted some barriers that may stop people making the switch, with 75% of people stating they would like to see a drop in price of EVs and 70% expressing concerns over the battery life.

Jardine Motors Group’s head of digital marketing and transformation, Alex Brown, said: “We wanted to explore what would make people become more inclined to making the switch to EV, but also understand what the barriers are and if there are any major changes that could be made, to the infrastructure for example, to make people more likely to buy an EV.

“With many myths and rumours it is important that motorists get the full facts before dismissing the idea of switching to an EV, and at Jardine Motor Group we are committed to presenting the full facts, allowing our customers to make an informed decision.”

The research also highlighted that 80% of people making the switch are apprehensive of running out of charge mid-journey, agreeing that they would need at least 260 miles between charges to give them peace of mind.