Hereford among UK areas showing less interest in electric cars according to analysis
Analysis by Autotrader reveals postcode divides in EV interest
Interest in electric vehicles (EVs) among drivers in Hereford is notably lower compared to other parts of the UK, according to an analysis by Autotrader.
Hereford featured as one of the postcode areas with the lowest share of users who viewed an EV advert in the past 90 days, at just 26.9%.
This contrasts with areas like Warrington, Cheshire, which had the highest share of EV interest at 35.9%.
The report from Autotrader highlights growing concerns that regions such as Scotland and the South West are in danger of being left behind in transitioning to electric motoring.
Ian Plummer, chief customer officer at Autotrader, believes that lower levels of interest in EVs reflect deeper structural challenges rather than a lack of demand for cleaner transport.
Autotrader noted that despite the challenges in Hereford and similar areas, there has been a 28% increase in total views of EV adverts on its platform last year compared to 2024.
The UK government plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030, but the report warns of a "two-speed road to 2030," potentially exacerbating existing economic divides.
To address these challenges, Mr Plummer stated the importance of extending the electric car grant to the used market and reconsidering taxation policies on EVs.
As part of the government's consultation, a plan to charge EV drivers 3p per mile starting from April 2028 is being considered.
A spokesperson from the Department for Transport highlighted that with used EVs gradually becoming more affordable, going electric is becoming a viable option for more families.
The transition to electric motoring continues to be a focus for the UK, with incentives such as the government's electric car grant, manufacturer discounts, and an increased number of brands entering the market.