Over 30% of EV and Hybrid drivers say they do not use public charging units, according to AA Ireland's most recent customer survey.
Experiences with public charging networks varied, with 30.19% finding them very unsatisfactory and 4.40% rating them very satisfactory.
The survey provides an overview of electric vehicle and hybrid usage, highlighting ownership trends, charging habits, cost perceptions, and infrastructure needs.
56.54% of respondents say they have a dedicated charging device installed at their home, and only 6% said they were planning to install one. Of the drivers that charge at home, 63% said they find the process easy, with the majority charging overnight, indicating a preference for off-peak charging rates
30% of respondents claim that they only charge when it is necessary, regardless of time or location, and a savvy 8.33% charge while they are at work.
The survey comes in the wake of a notable decline in new electric car registrations, with 10,739 registered so far this year, a 31.6% decrease compared to the 15,702 registered during the same period in 2023. Hybrid and PHEV registrations are also down 6.8% compared to last year.
When AA Ireland looked at the cost perception and compared the overall cost of EV ownership to that of a traditional petrol or diesel vehicle, 40% of respondents found EVs to be much cheaper, while 13.33% perceived them as much more expensive.
Regarding electricity prices for charging, 18.28% found their charging rates very reasonable, whereas 8.60% considered them very expensive.
Jennifer Kilduff, Head of Marketing & PR for the AA, said, "The survey reveals that positive environmental factors and a smoother, quieter driving experience are the primary motivators for choosing to drive an EV."
The survey demonstrates a general preference for home charging but also highlights a clear demand for improved public charging infrastructure and better cost management.
Respondents specifically suggest the need for more widespread and reliable public charging stations.
"Addressing these concerns could significantly enhance customer satisfaction and promote further adoption of electric vehicles in Ireland," Ms Kilduff. "It's evident that while many drivers appreciate the benefits of electric vehicles, the current infrastructure and cost perceptions are barriers that need to be addressed to make EVs a more carefully considered option for everyone."
