Electrifying Discussions: Top Electric Vehicle Trends of 2023
In this episode we get the low-down on Jack, Laura and Charlie’s favourite EVs, what they like to do while waiting at a fast charger, the most interesting thing they’ve ever done in an EV and, most importantly, what electric vehicle trends they think will be big in 2023.
The race towards cleaner mobility is ramping up, with 2023 set to bring even more new and exciting electric vehicle trends. So what can we expect to see this year?
Increase in charging infrastructure
One of the most commonly cited barriers for people wanting to switch to an electric vehicle are concerns over the lack of public charging infrastructure available. However, with over 1 million EV’s predicted to be on the road by 2024, urgent action must be taken to ensure equal and easy charging access for all.
In a bid to tackle this, the UK Government has already pledged £1.6bn of investment through the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, which promises 300k chargers on the road by 2030. In 2023 alone, this means that each motorway service station will have at least 6 rapid chargers of 150kW or above.
On top of this, Transport Minister Jesse Norman has recently announced spending plans for £56m of support to help public and industry charging across the UK, and we can expect to see even more progression as the year continues.
EV batteries set to improve
Electric vehicle battery technology has come a long way in the last few years, but there is still room for improvement. For example, scientists are already looking into cobalt free batteries and the use of silicon anodes which would spare the use of precious metals and reduce the overall price at the same time.
As more and more players continue to enter the race, we can expect to see new and innovative technological solutions that will allow car batteries to charge faster, adapt to longer ranges and take on increased life cycles. Does this mean range anxiety could soon be a thing of the past?
Wait times for new EVs will start to decline
News of global supply chain and micro-chip shortages, exacerbated by Covid-19 restrictions, have dominated industry headlines over the past couple of years. This caused a huge delay in EV delivery times, with some customers waiting over 12 months to have their cars delivered.
As we step into 2023, the SMMT have noted that these pressures are beginning to ease, and have dubbed 2023 as ‘the year of recovery‘. In fact, compared to October 2022, wait times are already down 13.2%.
However that’s not to say that supply will be completely back to normal anytime soon. So if you’re super eager to get your hands on an EV, maybe buying second hand or renting could be the way to go?
The rise of EV fleets
According to figures from DriveElectric, it’s predicted that by the end of 2023, 448,000 new battery electric vehicles will be registered in the UK.
With consumer concerns around inflation and current energy prices, it’s likely that fleets will be at the forefront of take-up as businesses look to reduce their carbon output, whether by their own pledges or Government mandates.
It’s also likely that low Benefit-in-Kind rates for UK companies, as outlined in the Government’s Autumn statement will continue to act as an incentive. As will schemes such as salary sacrifice which will make it easier for employees to go electric.
If you’re a business looking to upgrade your fleet to electric, you can find out more about the grants.
