More than 3,500 electric car owners surveyed on whether they would go back to the combustion engine: the result is conclusive

A few years ago, switching to an electric car was seen by many as a leap of faith. Range anxiety, charging headaches, and price tags were enough to make even the most eco-conscious driver hesitate. I was one of them! But after that switch had been made, did people have second thoughts?

Zapmap, a UK-based company that helps drivers locate charging stations, surveyed 3,746 electric vehicle owners to find out just that. The respondents were all based in the UK, one of the more mature EV markets, and their answers appear to send a rather strong signal about the future of cars.

Do EV drivers return to combustion engines?

Respondents rated their electric vehicles an average of 87 out of 100. That score wasn’t about style or speed, it was grounded in low running costs and energy efficiency, the two most frequently cited reasons for satisfaction. Drivers also liked the feeling of doing their part in the push toward greener transportation. That smug, self-contented smile while gliding down the road has a value.

The economic side of course was going to matter. According to Zapmap, reduced spending on fuel and maintenance plays a huge role in why EV drivers stay loyal. With energy prices still fluctuating but generally lower than gasoline in the UK, EVs can translate into long-term savings.

So, after living with an electric car, would these drivers ever return to the old combustion engine?

According to the Zapmap data, only 3% of electric car owners said they’d consider going back to gas or diesel. That means 97% plan to stick with electric, a clear sign that, at least for them, the switch was worth it. Finally some good news for Mr Musk!

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