New research from Sagareveals more than half of UK drivers (57%) are unfamiliar with dashboard and roadside symbols for electric vehicles.
Against the backdrop of shifting climate targets and ongoing discussions surrounding policies such as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge, Saga surveyed 1,200 UK drivers to gauge their familiarity with electric vehicle (EV) signs and symbols.
With the UK government pledging £500 million towards EV charging hubs – and 74% of non-electric vehicle drivers recognising the importance of understanding EV signs and symbols – it’s evident that the electric future is on the horizon.
So, how well-equipped are UK motorists with the needed knowledge?
Saga found:
A majority (57%) of UK drivers noted they’re unfamiliar with dashboard and roadside symbols for electric vehicles.
Greater London was the region where drivers claimed to have the highest level of awareness of EV dashboard and roadside symbols – 63% of drivers in the capital.
Regional nuances were evident in naming all the road signs in the highway code– from 67% in Scotland to 80% in both Northern Ireland and the North East of England.
Additionally, men were more likely than women (78% versus 71%) to express confidence in highway code.
ULEZ
It appears from the results that CAZ schemes have had a significant impact on increasing public awareness of EV rules and regulations.
Whilst 46% of Scottish drivers are familiar with dashboard and roadside symbols for EVs, 27% of drivers both in the South West and Northern Ireland are the least familiar.
Familiarity with ULEZ symbol increased with age, with 81% of drivers aged 55 and over correctly interpreting its meaning.
14% of EV users said they wouldn’t be able to identify any of them, compared to 57% of conventional drivers.
Saga Comments:
“The survey’s results spotlight an evolving landscape of electric vehicles in the UK as well as draw attention to the need to enhance public understanding of EV signs and symbols. As the nation pushes towards its 2035 ban of new petrol and diesel cars, Saga encourages drivers to engage with this change.
“As the electric vehicle revolution gains momentum, bridging this knowledge gap will be vital in ensuring a smooth transition towards a sustainable transportation future.”
