The proportion of electric vehicles (EVs) running out of charge in the UK has fallen to its lowest level ever, according to new data from the AA. The statistics, unveiled on 21 November, by AA President Edmund King at the Transport + Energy Forum at Warwick University, indicate that just 1.85% of EV breakdowns in 2024 were due to running out of charge, down from 2.26% in 2023.
Significant progress in EV reliability
In 2015, 8.26% of EV breakdowns were attributed to running out of charge. The figure has since fallen steadily, with minor reversals in 2017 and 2019. King attributes this improvement to advancements in battery technology, greater range capabilities, improved charging infrastructure, and enhanced driver awareness.
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“This dramatic reduction—about 80% over eight years—shows range anxiety should now be a thing of the past,” King said. “Many of these breakdowns aren’t caused by vehicles running out of charge but by technical issues, such as stuck charge point covers or other minor faults.”
Comparison to petrol and diesel vehicles
The AA expects the figure to eventually align with that of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles running out of fuel, which stands at around 1%. Currently, the AA attends to approximately 8,000 breakdowns daily across all vehicle types, with just five or six involving EVs running out of charge.
King highlighted that the top 30% of faults in EVs mirror those of petrol and diesel cars, with issues such as tyres, wheels, and 12-volt batteries remaining common.
Drivers urged to consider the switch
King emphasised the advantages of transitioning to EVs, particularly given recent price reductions for both new and used models. “The economics, especially for those who can charge at home, make EVs an excellent choice. Drivers need clear and accurate information to navigate this revolutionary transition,” he said.
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By GlobalDataThe AA’s findings align with trends in Norway, which has the highest EV penetration in Europe, underscoring the UK’s progress in supporting EV adoption through improved infrastructure and education.
