Search
New data from Auto Trader and the AA suggests electric vehicles (EVs) are more reliable in breakdown scenarios than many drivers expect, with EVs now more likely to be repaired at the roadside than petrol or diesel vehicles.
Consumer research carried out in December 2025 found that 44% of people considering an EV remain concerned about breakdowns or roadside repairs, rising to 56% among over-75s. Concerns were highest in the North East, while women were slightly more likely than men to express reservations.
Fresh data from the AA reveals EVs are more likely to be successfully repaired roadside than internal combustion engine vehicles, and issues linked to the 12-volt battery are more common in petrol and diesel cars than battery-related faults in EVs. This challenges the perception that EVs are harder to recover or repair when problems arise.
Supporting this, a recent Society of Motor Manufacturers (SMMT) survey found that more than 80% of UK workshops are now equipped to work on EVs, reflecting growing capability across the aftermarket and improving repair confidence.
The findings form part of the ‘Electric Cars: The Facts’ initiative, led by Auto Trader alongside ChargeUK and SMMT, which the AA has now joined. The campaign aims to address common misconceptions around EV ownership using data-backed insights and is endorsed by the Department for Transport. The BVRLA champions the initiative along with other bodies such as EVA England and the National Franchise Dealer Association.
See details about the BVRLA's 2026 Vehicle and Fleet Management and other Forums that are coming up.
