May, 2011
Introduction
Accenture set out to understand consumer preferences toward the electrification of private transport by commissioning a global survey of consumer attitudes and opinions. We conducted a survey of more than 7,000 individuals in 13 countries. The survey results answer some of the key questions being asked by sectors and service providers considering participation in the PEV market:
- Do consumers have a clear awareness and understanding of PEVs?
- Do they have intentions to make purchases of PEVs in the coming years?
- What are the factors that matter most to consumers when considering PEVs?
- What preferences do consumers have for charging and charging services?
- Do they have a preference for full EVs or for PHEVs? If so, why? Full EVs or PHEVs?
The survey covers PEVs and distinguishes between full EVs and PHEVs. Full EVs depend entirely on battery engines that are charged by plugging into the electricity supply. PHEVs have a conventional gasoline/diesel engine and a battery-powered engine, which is charged from the electricity supply. PHEVs allow drivers to continue driving on conventional fuel once the battery power has run down. The survey does not cover hybrid electric vehicles, which do not source their electricity from being plugged in.
Key Findings
- Consumers’ preferences for charging PEVs will challenge utilities and charging network providers.
- Purchase price is not the only key factor of PEV adoption: utilities, city authorities and service providers will have to address concerns for convenience, range anxiety and the fuel source of electricity.
- Consumers strongly prefer plug-in hybrid EVs over full EVs.
- Utilities face a retail challenge, as consumers are open to buying charging services from other providers.
