Credit-crunched motorists still want to go green

Back

Government incentives are key to greener motoring

New research out today shows that despite the recession, 62 per cent of UK motorists polled are considering an electric or hybrid vehicle as their next car purchase – but Government support is key1.

Following the reported success of the UK scrappage scheme2, the findings issued by esure car insurance reveals that 93 per cent of motorists questioned said that a major motivation for purchasing a greener vehicle would be cash incentives from the Government.

With electric cars headlining this year’s Motor Show in Frankfurt3 and chef James Martin making headlines following his electric car review4, the research shows that only seven per cent of motorists polled are unlikely to purchase a greener vehicle because of the tough economic climate.

Nine out of ten of those motorists polled said they would be more likely to buy a greener vehicle if there was better infrastructure in place for electric cars.

Proving that value for money remains a priority for car buyers, 94 per cent said they would be motivated to ‘go green’ if the technology was cheaper.

Mike Pickard, Head of Risk and Underwriting at esure car insurance, said: "As this week’s Motor Show testifies, car manufacturers are investing huge time and resource into the electric and hybrid market. This is great news for motorists who are concerned about the environment but cannot live without their cars.

A significant financial incentive to 'go green' would make the choice more appealing to many motorists and this is hopefully something that the Government will consider after the success of the second-hand scrappage scheme. In the meantime esure advises motorists to drive greener – and also save money – by adopting fuel-saving measures such as accelerating and braking slowly and checking tyres are fully inflated."

- ends -

esure's press contacts:

For further information please contact the esure press office at Mischief PR on 020 7100 9999 or email esure@mischiefpr.com

An ISDN line is available for radio interviews.

Notes to Editors:

  1. esure used the independent online research company FlyResearch who surveyed 1,055 of the UK's drivers, from across the country aged 18 and over, on 11th to 12th August 2009
  2. BBC News: Scrappage scheme boosts car sales
  3. BBC News: Crowded car industry eyes electric future
  4. Mail Online: The Tesla Roadster electric supercar thats fast as a Ferrari

About esure:

esure was launched in 2001. The company offers car, home, pet and travel insurance over the internet and by phone. esure also offers car insurance cover through the brands Halifax, Sainsbury's, Sheilas' Wheels and more recently home insurance through the Sheilas' Wheels brand.

Sponsorship:

esure has secured two of the UK's most iconic sponsorships: the ITV National and Channel 4 Weather bulletins.