Electric cars dominate driver interest as petrol and diesel prices spike due to Iran war

Since the start of the conflict on February 28, petrol prices have risen by more than 25p per litre (19.2 per cent) to an average of 158.27p due to the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Diesel prices have also climbed by 30 per cent over the same period, reaching an average of 191.50p, causing interest in electric cars to soar.

Fresh research found that enquiries for petrol and diesel cars over the same period across new, used, and leasing have remained flat.

There has been a surge in traffic to EV-related guides and tools, with drivers looking at cheap electric cars up 24 per cent, while Carwow’s guide to the best Chinese electric cars saw a 22 per cent spike.

Meanwhile, engagement with tools such as the Carwow EV charging map and charging cost calculator is up 32 per cent and 30 per cent respectively.

Siobhan Doyle, consumer writer at Carwow, said: “The data points to a clear shift in car-buying behaviour. As fuel prices rise, more drivers are seriously considering making the switch to electric, but they’re also doing their homework.”

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“As well as researching cars, prospective EV buyers are spending more time researching their local charging network and running costs, using tools to understand how an electric car would fit into their day-to-day lives before taking the plunge.“

The latest data also revealed the five most enquired-about electric cars in March, with the Renault 5 seeing a 38 per cent increase in consumer interest compared with before the conflict.

Ms Doyle noted that the “funky” electric car was “great to drive”, noting the benefits of a heat pump and 252 miles of range.

The Vauxhall Frontera Electric was up 42 per cent while the Tesla Model 3 showed a modest one per cent increase in interest.

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The Tesla Model 3 also has a strong range of up to 323 miles, thanks to efficient motors, delivering “rapid acceleration and impressive value”.

BYD’s flagship model, the Seal, saw the largest jump in attraction since the start of the Iran war with a rise of 76 per cent.

Ms Doyle stated: “This Chinese saloon car is a fantastic alternative to the Tesla Model 3.

“It looks great from the outside and has a quirky but upmarket interior. The boot is on the small side, but the cabin is spacious, and it’s really comfortable to drive.”

Another Chinese brand, Jaecoo, saw interest jump 56 per cent for its E5 model, showing how drivers are gravitating towards affordable international brands.

“Expect loads of cabin space and storage in this Chinese electric SUV, as well as pet-friendly upholstery and accessories, and a responsive infotainment system,” she added.