New research by Venson Automotive Solutions reveals that over a quarter (27 per cent) of pedestrians have recently been taken by surprise by the almost silent approach of a plug-in car while they were crossing the road, and almost half (47 per cent) remain concerned about how quiet plug-ins are when in transit.
The latest figures from the SMMT confirm that electric vehicle uptake is accelerating, with 21,726 vehicles sold in November, equating to 18.8 per cent of the market. However, motorists embracing electrification for the first time need to consider the impact of harsh weather conditions on battery performance, says Venson Automotive Solutions.
The first bespoke Electric Vehicle (EV) charging forecourt opened in Essex recently, regarded by some as heralding the demise of petrol and diesel service stations. The move is applauded by motorists who remain uncertain about the practicalities of charging EV batteries, including charging times and home charging. A recent survey from Venson Automotive Solutions confirms that 68 per cent of drivers would be more likely to make the switch to an EV if they knew they could conduct a rapid 30-minute charge at an electric forecourt rather than the inconvenience of charging their vehicle at home.
Despite growing competition by manufacturers and retailers in promoting their electric vehicle offerings, a recent survey of 200 drivers by Venson Automotive Solutions confirms that the most important factors for people when considering an electric vehicle (EV) remain battery and price, closely followed by the vehicle’s safety rating. With EV sales predicted to rocket in the next couple of years, marketing brand lifestyle and experience may fall short when compared to pushing the practicalities of owning and driving an emissions free vehicle.
Venson survey shows drivers support smart motorways, but some education is still required to improve safety and a sizeable minority have safety concerns. With controversial smart motorways continuing to cause debate across the motor industry and within Government, Venson Automotive Solutions has asked drivers for their opinion. Bucking the ‘anti’ trend led by industry influencers calling for alternations to the system, 56 per cent agree that smart motorways are indeed necessary to help improve road safety and ease congestion. Half see the benefits for congestion levels, and a quarter expect smart motorways to ease emissions. However, one in ten admit they don’t know what a smart motorway is, highlighting the need for driver education.
For those who have had to use their vehicles throughout the lockdown period, it has been a welcome change on the roads, with less traffic and fewer jams and hold-ups. But now lockdown is being eased, it appears that old, bad habits are raising their ugly heads once again as motorists appear to have become ruder and inconsiderate.
Venson Automotive Solutions is urging fleet managers to encourage company car drivers to ensure their vehicles are road ready as the nation anticipates an easing of lockdown. The advice from Venson follows its latest survey of UK motorists which revealed that one in five do not know when their MOT is due, and 69 per cent are unclear about when the Government’s six-month MOT exemption came into play.
Venson Automotive Solutions has published a free white paper on tyres for fleet decision-makers and company car and van drivers. The company states that “all too often price wins over vehicle use, age and mileage when it comes to buying and replacing tyres,” compared to the investment devoted to preparing vehicles for the latest connected technology.
Taking the results of a survey conducted by Venson Automotive Solutions, we can safely conclude that driver knowledge about tyre tread depths isn’t what it should be. The independent fleet management specialist shares that 69 per cent of survey participants weren’t aware of the 1.6mm minimum legal tread depth limit.
Following news that the government has the green-light for trials of driverless cars in the UK, Venson Automotive Solutions’ says fleet managers could benefit from considering the future of their fleet. Results from its latest survey suggest drivers would welcome these cars as an option; 62 per cent of respondents said they be happy to sit-back and let their company car do the driving, with many saying it would remove some of the stress from their working day.
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