If you are looking for a vehicle, you have probably already asked about the relevance of purchasing an electric vehicle. There really is a difference between fuel prices and traffic restrictions arguments in favor of electric cars todayeven if the cost of its acquisition remains higher compared to the thermal model.

Be that as it may, but the number of buyers of electric models is increasing, and the motivations are diverse. But if one might think that the main argument was the environmental aspect, a recent study proves that this is not necessarily the case. In any case, this is not the number one argument that tipped the scales.

Economy before ecology

Indeed, according to a Deloitte study, buyers of electric cars are primarily motivated by fuel economy, more than an environmental problem. All over the world, motorists put the criteria for choosing an electric car in the first place its lower cost in use compared to thermal models.

Only in China, the world’s largest EV market, are motorists choosing these new engines for their driving experience for the first time.

The following criteria are: concern for limiting global warming, purchase subsidies and the prospect of savings on maintenance. Even if there are more and more arguments in favor of electricity, interest in this energy is not necessarily as high as expected.

Are the French still reluctant?

Electric represents 8% of purchase intentions in France, while the vast majority of motorists are still considering a petrol, diesel or hybrid engine for their next car, new or used. The figure is a far cry from China, where electricity accounts for 27% of purchase intentions.

Unsurprisingly, the main obstacles to buying an electric car are: charging time, range and, of course, prices, which remain high, even if they are still mostly dependent on government subsidies.

While car prices continue to rise, almost a third of French people do not intend to invest more than €15,000 in their next car. Another large third are considering buying it for €15,000-€30,000.