Retail and leisure destinations can expect increased footfall if they implement electric vehicle (EV) charging points imminently, according to a new report by CACI.
The research reveals that 66% of people who intend to own an EV will visit retailers and businesses more frequently if they provide the right charging facilities. In addition, 48% of existing EV owners have engaged with charging infrastructure at a public car park and 33% have charged their EV at a supermarket.
Bolstered by government legislation banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 and greater environmentally conscious public sentiment, EV purchases continue to grow rapidly. In fact, 42% of consumers said their next car would be an EV and 27% expect to purchase an EV in the next two years.
The report also found that by 2025, most major manufacturers expect EV to account for over 50% of their models.
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“CACI’s research highlights that EV offerings will influence the way shoppers behave as they expect retail locations to meet their electrification needs,” the company said.
CACI principal consultant James Debenham added: “We know that by 2030 sales of new ICE cars will cease in the UK and EVs will be the future. However, what our data reveals is just how important it is to get ahead of the market on charging infrastructure.
“As organisations start to strategise beyond the pandemic, delivering appropriate EV infrastructure now will allow them to reap enormous rewards in the long term,” he continued.
“What’s more, businesses that take the extra step to invest in educating drivers and make owning an EV easier will benefit twofold in the evolution of transportation.”
