UK drivers will need better education over electric and hybrid cars if the government’s alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) quotas are to be met, CLM Fleet Management have warned.

CLM, part of the Maxxia Group, interviewed 100 car owners and found that although a large majority of them had heard of hybrid vehicles, only 60% were aware of battery electric vehicles (EVs), and less than a third (28%) knew about hydrogen fuel cell EVs.

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Additionally, though respondents had heard of the terms used to describe various AFVs types, few were able to match them to the specific technology behind their function.

The lack of understanding translated into unwillingness to switch to AFVs for the next car. Only 33% of respondents would consider a hybrid vehicle, and just 22% a battery electric vehicles.

Nevertheless, drivers believed that the age of traditional fuels is coming to an end. Nearly 90% of respondents did not think petrol and diesel would still dominate UK sales in 20 years’ time, and 68% declared themselves “unlikely” to choose diesel for their next car.

John Lawrence, managing director at CLM, said: “Our results very much point to the fact that the industry as a whole has a lot of work to do in raising levels of awareness and understanding of the growing choices now available to motorists.

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“Sales of AFVs are still at very low levels and account for less than 4% of the UK new car market. For government targets to be reached, it requires a sea change in attitude and knowledge, as there are still clear concerns amongst motorists over affordability, range and charging points.

“Increased education would undoubtedly help this process and this is where fleet management providers like ourselves have a clear role to play in providing our customers with a clear and detailed analysis of the alternative fuel options available.”