25% of respondents said they would definitely or strongly consider purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) as their next car—down from 33% in 2022/23 and 38% in 2021/22. Among those interested in buying an EV, 82% expect to do so within the next five years.

The top three incentives to purchase an EV were a grant towards purchase (47%), low overall running costs (46%), and grants to install a home charger (44%). The main deterrent remains the purchase price, cited by 75% of respondents.

The data comes from the 2023/24 Continuous Household Survey (CHS), which is representative at the household level. A total of 2,439 adults aged 16 and over were surveyed.

The report explores driving licence ownership, access to vehicles, likelihood and timing of EV purchase, and motivating and discouraging factors influencing purchase decisions.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has today published the Attitudes Towards Electric Vehicles in Northern Ireland 2023/24 report. Produced by the Department's Analysis, Statistics and Research Branch (ASRB), the report presents findings from the 2023/24 Continuous Household Survey (CHS). The full publication is available on the Electric Cars Research page.

This year’s survey used a dual-method approach—face-to-face interviews were preferred, with telephone interviews also offered. This follows changes made during the COVID-19 pandemic, when all interviews were conducted by phone.

The report complies with the UK Statistics Authority’s Code of Practice for Statistics, ensuring trustworthiness, quality, and value.

For additional analysis, data breakdowns, or alternative formats, contact:

Analysis, Statistics and Research Branch (ASRB)

1st Floor, James House, Gasworks Site,

2-4 Cromac Avenue, Belfast, BT7 2JA

Tel: (028) 9054 0804 (Text Relay: 18001)

Email: asrb@nisra.gov.uk

Website: infrastructure-ni.gov.uk

Media Enquiries:

DfI Press Office

Email: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk

Tel: (028) 9054 0007

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