Electric dreams: Brits back EVs as future of motoring, but challenges remain
With climate change now an urgent global concern, a majority of Brits believe that electric vehicles (EVs) represent the future of the motor industry, according to new research. The findings come as part of MPA’s ongoing Environmental Innovations series, which explores how UK businesses and consumers are responding to the environmental challenges facing the travel and transport sectors.
Transport currently accounts for nearly a third of global energy consumption and a quarter of energy-related CO2 emissions, making it one of the biggest contributors to climate change. As awareness grows and consumer habits evolve, the motor industry finds itself in the spotlight — and increasingly under pressure to adapt.
In a survey conducted via YouGov Profiles, MPA found that nearly two-thirds of Britons believe people should drive less to help the environment. Yet with over 31 million vehicles on UK roads, the idea of a car-free society remains a distant dream. Instead, the shift toward electric vehicles is being seen as a more realistic path forward.
Some 69% of respondents agreed that electric cars are the future of motoring. This sentiment is backed by industry data, which revealed that 2018 was a record-breaking year for EV sales in the UK, with 59,945 units sold. The trend is only expected to accelerate, pushing carmakers to invest heavily in innovation to meet growing demand.
Projects such as The Nextrode Project, working with the University of Warwick, are helping lay the foundation for next-generation battery technology. Their aim: to revolutionise the manufacturing of electrodes for lithium-ion EV batteries, making the technology more efficient and sustainable.
But the environmental conversation extends beyond the road. The aviation industry — a major polluter — is also under pressure to cut emissions. While 46% of those surveyed say they’re likely to book a flight within the next year, there’s increasing demand for airlines to reduce their carbon impact.
British Airways has announced a bold initiative to convert household waste into jet fuel. Set to launch in Lincolnshire in 2024, the project has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% for flights using the sustainable fuel — a significant development for the future of air travel.
Technology, too, is playing a growing role. One in seven survey participants cited 5G connectivity as most useful in advancing connected and autonomous vehicles. Companies like Ericsson are harnessing this digital leap to support more sustainable transport systems and smarter urban mobility.
John Lowndes, Director at MPA, noted: “The travel and motor sector has faced significant public scrutiny as concern over climate change has grown. It’s encouraging to see so many companies taking proactive steps toward sustainability. Increased demand for electric cars, investment in sustainable aviation fuel, and the integration of technology like 5G will all be crucial in reducing carbon footprints and helping the UK adopt greener habits.”
As EV adoption continues and sustainability shifts from aspiration to action, both consumers and businesses have a pivotal role to play. And with the world watching, the UK’s transition to cleaner transport could define the future of its motor industry.
For those looking beyond the transport sector, it’s a reminder that transformation is possible across all industries — even those seemingly unrelated, like sports or entertainment. Just as EVs are reshaping roads, accurate NBA predictions today are revolutionising how data and fan engagement evolve in real time. Innovation, it seems, is everywhere — and the smart money is on those who adapt fastest.
