Progress towards UK’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) has continued over the past quarter, according to The AA’s latest EV Readiness Index, which has moved up for the fourth consecutive month, to its highest level to date.
The quarterly Readiness Index tracks eight factors affecting EV adoption and produces a combined readiness score between 1 and 100. This data is powered by proprietary AA research and extensive consumer polling of over 10,000 members, conducted in partnership with Yonder.
The overall readiness score has risen to 60 in Q3 2026 which covers July, August, and September. Q2 2026 scored 58.8 and Q1 2026 scored 53.8.
The increase in the overall Readiness Rating was largely driven by reduced upfront costs, as the price premium for new EVs over equivalent petrol models narrowed slightly to 25%, compared with 26% in Q2. Used electric vehicles saw a slight decrease to 1% (Q2: 3%) more expensive than petrol equivalents .
The Index also highlighted the major cost advantage of home charging, with disrupted energy markets continued to affect the Index during Q3. According to the AA, petrol increased to 161.5p per litre, compared with 159.6p at the end of May and 132.5p in February. For drivers able to charge at home, electricity remained 66% cheaper per mile than petrol.
Ultra-rapid public charging remained around 15% more expensive per mile than petrol, highlighting the continuing divide between EV drivers who can charge at home and those dependent on the public network.
Participants in the index continue to be satisfied with EV upkeep, which maintained its Q2 score of 60. EVs continue to compare favourably with petrol vehicles on upkeep and maintenance. In breakdown incidents , EVs are more likely to be fixed at the roadside. 88.1% of EV callouts were fixed at the roadside, compared with 83.5% of petrol vehicles. Running out of charge accounted for 1.3% of all call outs, compared with 8.3% in 2015. the rate remains significantly below historic averages, as ‘range anxiety ’ recedes as an obstacle to adoption.
The report has identified the growing impact of Chinese cars on the market, and differing attitudes to them among different age groups. While younger drivers are much more receptive, almost half overall (47%) believe increased competition between Chinese and established manufacturers will benefit consumers.
Edmund King OBE, AA president, said:
"The EV Readiness Index reaching 60 is another significant milestone. It shows that the conditions for going electric are steadily improving, but a score of 60 also tells us that we aren't there yet.
"The AA supports the transition to zero-emission vehicles, but targets need to be realistic, achievable and supported by consumer demand. Whether the 2030 mandate remains at 80% for cars and 70% for vans or is adjusted, drivers and manufacturers need certainty and a clear direction of travel.
"Ultimately, the transition will work when consumers want and are able to make the switch. That means affordable cars, reliable and convenient charging and incentives which give drivers confidence rather than confusion."
