Despite the political impact placed on EV uptake, most drivers care more about costs, according to Close Motor Brothers.

Affordability was ranked as main consideration when purchasing a new vehicle by 71% of motorists in the Britain Under the Bonnet report from Close Brothers Motor Finance.

A further 56% care about how economical a vehicle is to run, showing additional interest in cost. Other key attributes include fuel type (55%), engine size (49%), and number of doors (47%). 

Close Brothers Motor Finance’s director of sales Sean Kemple said: “With Brexit looming, political and economic uncertainty are undoubtedly having an effect on consumer confidence.

"For those looking to make big-ticket purchases such as a new vehicle it’s understandable that the power is in the purse strings.”

How environmentally friendly the vehicle is was classed as a major consideration for just under one in five (18%) drivers, yet failed to make the top ten.

The report also found that more than a quarter (28%) of drivers wouldn’t consider buying an electric car, with 47% blaming the initial cost as being too expensive.

Other reasons influencing motorists’ decision to not purchase an electric car include, the range being limited (43%), long charging times (36%) and the technology needing improvement (46%).

When buying a car, motorists say the main considerations are:

1. Affordability (71%)
2. How economical it is to run (56%)
3. Fuel type (55%)
4. Engine size (49%)
5. Number of doors (47%)
6. Existing mileage (43%)
7. Manufacturer (40%)
8. Safety rating (34%)
9. Boot size (33%)
10. Colour (29%)