British drivers are among the most interested in EVs, but the interest is not yet translating into purchase intent, according to the HERE-SBD EV Index 2026. While 38% of non-EV drivers say they are much more likely to consider an EV than a year ago, only 18% say an EV is the vehicle they are most likely to purchase or lease next, the largest gap across all markets surveyed.

Developed by HERE Technologies and SBD Automotive, the HERE-SBD EV Index 2026 combines market maturity data with a survey of more than 4,000 drivers across the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the US, India and Australia. The UK findings show the conversation is shifting from whether drivers are interested in EVs to what is stopping them from buying one.

The report identifies the UK as one of the most eager markets surveyed when it comes to EV uptake.  

Among owners of gasoline and diesel vehicles, 38% of UK respondents say they are much more likely to consider an EV than they were a year ago. However, only 18% say an EV is the vehicle they are most likely to purchase or lease next. This 20-percentage point gap suggests that consumer openness is increasing faster than purchase commitment.

The UK recorded one of the strongest EV interest signals among all markets surveyed in the study. More than seven in ten UK respondents overall say they are more likely to consider an EV than a year ago, showing that electric mobility has moved further into the mainstream for British drivers.

UK drivers cite practical improvements as the main reasons for their growing interest. Among respondents whose likelihood of considering an EV has increased, 44% point to better charging speed and driving range, 39% cite the cost of charging an EV and 32% highlight the wider choice of electric models now available.

The findings show EVs are increasingly viewed as everyday vehicles, with consumers focused on usability, convenience and ownership value.

The Index can be accesed HERE.

(Pictures: Yay Images; HERE/SBD)