One in five motorists would consider buying an electric car, after the UK Government introduces incentives in the New Year, new research from Swinton Insurance suggests.
The results were revealed by the leading car insurance firm, after the Government announced that it would be going ahead with plans to give electric car buyers grants worth up £5,000 towards their purchase.
Swinton surveyed 1,200 customers and found that 19 per cent would consider purchasing a greener vehicle as part of the scheme.
From January 2011, under the new scheme a motorist buying an electric car or a plug-in hybrid can qualify for 25 per cent off, up to a maximum of £5,000.
The benefits of owning an electric car include reduced carbon emissions and running cost, however, the insurance firm is warning motorists who wish to purchase an electric vehicle to ensure they check out the premium for car insurance first. Electric cars are more unusual and have difficult-to-replace parts thus increasing repair costs, which could impact on insurance premiums.
Steve Chelton, Insurance Development Manager at Swinton said: "Green cars really benefit the environment and motorists wishing to purchase a new vehicle should consider using the Government’s new scheme and opting for an electric car. However, they need to be aware of the implications to their car insurance policy as premiums for electric cars are likely to be slightly higher. It’s always a good idea to check before any purchase is made."
