Europcar sustainability report highlights barriers to making EV switch

Europcar has published its 2025 Sustainability Report, revealing growing electric vehicle (EV) demand, while highlighting current barriers to making the switch.

Designed to give fleet and business travel managers vital information on EV adoption, the report - Sustainable Evolution - also focuses on the role of vehicle rental in enabling both businesses and private motorists to experience the benefits of electric mobility.   

“Despite the Government’s recent decision to extend the availability of new plug-in hybrid and hybrid to 2035, the urgency for change cannot be understated,” said Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility at Europcar Mobility Group UK. 

“Europcar is on a mission to help overcome the fear, uncertainty and doubt that exists and win the hearts and minds of potential EV motorists.”

He added: “We know that fleet and business travel managers are having to balance short-term mobility needs and financial pressures with the long-term will to be ready for net zero. And the report acknowledges the significant strides made in EV adoption, with fleet users leading the charge. 

“However, there are still considerable barriers in achieving widespread electric vehicle uptake.”

The current barriers to switching are highlighted in the report, including cost concerns, charging infrastructure limitations and lingering uncertainties about EV technology. 

The need for clearer signage for EV charging, as well as infrastructure that can accommodate electric vans as well as cars are other issues identified in the report.

The report also shows the steps taken by Europcar to expand its EV fleet, enhance customer education and reduce its own impact on the environment are outlined.

Furthermore, it outlines Europcar’s ambitious plans to remove further barriers to electric motoring in 2025. 

For example, continued expansion of its EV fleet, especially electric vans, and introducing price parity on electric car and van rental rates for business account customers.  

The business has also committed to continued investment in educating and supporting customers on their electric journey and influencing change to Government policy.

Middleditch said: “We believe that rental plays a vital role in driving EV adoption; Europcar, therefore, is committed to being the electric mobility partner of choice.

“We are dedicated to providing the solutions and support needed to make the switch to electric seamless and accessible.”

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