The UK’s transition to electric vehicles is gathering pace—but remains fragile.

Those are the conclusions drawn from the latest findings in the AA’s EV readiness report.

It comes as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are driving renewed public interest in alternatives to petrol and diesel.

Getting there

The AA’s newly published EV Readiness Index for Q1 2026 shows the UK’s overall readiness score has risen to 53.8 out of 100, up from 48.8 at the end of last year.

This marks the highest level recorded since the index was launched, suggesting that conditions for switching to electric cars are improving.

However, the report warns that significant barriers remain, particularly around cost perceptions, charging infrastructure and consumer confidence.

The improvement has been driven largely by falling prices in the used EV market, with second-hand electric cars now around 10% cheaper than equivalent petrol models.

Analysts say this is helping to expand EV ownership among a wider group of drivers, particularly as more ex-fleet vehicles enter the market.

Driving the agenda

However, the findings come at a time of heightened global uncertainty.

Ongoing military tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, and concerns over disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, have pushed oil prices sharply higher, fuelling fears over energy security and affordability.

This has had a direct impact on consumer behaviour.

According to AA data, searches for used EVs have risen significantly in recent weeks, with interest accelerating as petrol prices climb.

Automotive commentators say the geopolitical backdrop is reinforcing the appeal of electric vehicles.

“Events in the Middle East have once again exposed how vulnerable drivers are to global oil shocks,” said an industry analyst. “For many households, EVs are no longer just about cutting emissions—they’re about reducing exposure to unpredictable fuel costs.”

The AA itself struck a cautious tone. In commentary accompanying the report, officials said that while progress is evident, “the transition remains fragile,” with consumer sentiment still easily influenced by cost concerns and policy uncertainty.

Theory and practice

One of the most striking findings is the gap between perception and reality regarding EV affordability.

Separate research shows that only a small proportion of drivers believe electric cars are cheaper to run than petrol or diesel vehicles, despite evidence to the contrary.

Policy uncertainty is also proving a barrier.

More than half of drivers say proposals such as pay-per-mile road charging could deter them from switching, highlighting the sensitivity of consumer confidence during a critical phase of adoption.

Concerns around charging infrastructure remain another key issue.

While the UK’s network continues to expand, many drivers still worry about access and convenience—particularly those without off-street parking.

At the same time, confidence in the used EV market remains low.

Only a small minority of motorists say they feel comfortable buying a second-hand electric car, with battery health and longevity among the biggest concerns.

Industry figures say addressing these perceptions will be crucial to sustaining momentum.

“There is a clear opportunity here,” said one commentator. “Falling prices and rising fuel costs are pushing drivers towards EVs—but unless confidence improves, that momentum could stall.”

On the move

Despite these challenges, the broader trend is clear.

External shocks, such as rising oil prices linked to geopolitical conflict, are accelerating interest in electric vehicles, even as structural barriers persist.

With the UK committed to phasing out new petrol and diesel car sales in the coming decade, the AA’s latest index suggests the transition is moving in the right direction, but not yet at the pace required.

Fear amongst the public about making the jump from the combustion engine to the electric needs to be countered with education, information, and assurance.

As global uncertainty continues to shape energy markets, the appeal of EVs will undoubtedly grow further.

For many drivers, the shift is no longer just about sustainability, but about stability in an increasingly unpredictable world.