EVs falling behind

DESPITE an exceptionally strong start to 2023 in the UK, with growth recorded in overall car buying demand, new and used car sales, and average prices, the electric vehicle (EVs) share of the retail market is falling behind where it needs to be to meet the government’s 2030 targets.

According to Auto Trader’s Road to 2030 Report, the government must step in with a detailed programme of tax incentives to improve the affordability of EVs and support the industry’s efforts in driving mass consumer adoption.

The largest automotive marketplace’s latest insight into the electric vehicle market warns that whilst consumer demand for used EVs is robust, buyer interest in new has dropped by almost two thirds ­ or 65 per cent ­ since the beginning of 2022. This is due in part to the rising cost of living, higher borrowing costs, and the well documented hike in energy prices. from 10 to 80 per cent or just 23 minutes if you can locate a 150kw charger.

In reality, depending upon your driving style and how much of the considerable performance you use, the real world range is somewhere in the order of 270 miles. Ranges have improved, and will doubtless continue to improve, but then they need to get better with the lamentable public charging network. One can’t help sympathising with car makers!

As with all Audis there’s a feeling of solidity and quality with an interior is pleasingly free from much of the touchscreen mania that seems to afflict many interiors these days. There’s an enviable standard equipment list too, but the optional extras can raise the list price to lofty heights. It also feels special from its sweeping curves to its Alcantara clad interior. However those sweeping lines do have the effect of making the interior feel somewhat compact given the e ­ tron’s exterior dimensions. You do slide rather than climb into the car.

On the road the e ­ tron doesn’t disappoint with blistering acceleration and handling to match. There’s synthesised sound that offers a suitably aural background for such sporting looks and despite its considerable size the GT is remarkably nimble and enjoyable on cross country drives. It’s also a distinguished cruiser on A roads and motorways.

If you’re looking for style and class in EV form, and you have the financial wherewithal, then the etron GT is definitely your kind of car.