‘Get that electric feeling’ campaign promotes benefits of EVs

Drivers are to be encouraged to make the switch to electric when they purchase their next car by a Department for Transport advertising campaign.

Launching across TV, radio and digital outlets, the ‘Get that electric feeling’ campaign highlights how drivers can save up to £3,750 off the cost of a new electric vehicle (EV) thanks to the government Electric Car Grant, alongside up to £1,400 on annual fuel and maintenance costs and access to over 87,000 chargepoints across the UK.

Aviation, maritime and decarbonisation minister, Keir Mather, said: “Over 50,000 drivers have made savings of up to £3,750 off a new EV and £1,400 a year on running costs. Our campaign is here to show millions of Brits the benefits of making the switch, which could save their family budget thousands.

“With over 87,000 public chargers across the UK and thousands more on the way, our message is clear – going electric has never been easier and under this government, you can save thousands when you do.”

The push comes as the government has helped over 50,000 drivers buy an EV, saving them up to £3,750 in the process through the Electric Car Grant. Some 1 in 4 of all new car sales are now electric, says the DfT.

The campaign will reach people up and down the country, running across broadcast video on demand, connected TV, broadcast radio, digital audio (podcasts and spots), as well as out-of-home areas such as?petrol stations, shopping centres, motorway service areas and roadside, digital display,?social media, influencers and partnerships.

Ian Plummer, chief customer officer at Autotrader, said: “With almost two-thirds of buyers now considering electric vehicles, according to our latest research, reinforcement of the benefits of electric car ownership is key to ensure consideration translates into buying.

Electric cars are a great option for many drivers and with 9 in 10 people who have already made the switch saying they won’t go back, now is a great time to find out more.”

Dominic Phinn, head of transport at Climate Group, said: “The UK has positioned itself as a frontrunner in a fiercely competitive global race towards clean road transport. But myths and misinformation are holding the nation back from taking the next leap.

“Major UK businesses, like members of our EV100 network, have been leading on fleet electrification, but are warning that a much bigger perception shift in the population is now needed for them to keep driving the transition.

“The government’s new EV marketing campaign is a very welcome step towards galvanising the public around smarter, cheaper and cleaner road transport that benefits all.”

Andrew Miller, chief executive of Motability Operations, said: “Through the Motability Scheme, we’re helping thousands of disabled people make the switch to electric vehicles – unlocking greater freedom and independence. And once people switch, they stay. Our EV Transition Tracker found that nearly 9 in 10 would choose an EV again. This campaign brings that to life, showing how EVs can make journeys easier, cleaner and cheaper.”