Interest in Electric Cars Growing in Hungary

One in three Hungarian drivers is considering buying an electric car because of its lower maintenance costs and lower emissions. That is according to a representative survey conducted by the international consultancy firm Ernst & Young (EY).

Results of the survey sent to the state news agency MTI suggest that 80% of Hungarians have never driven a purely electric car, but 53% of respondents would consider switching to an alternative drive vehicle if a favorable offer were made.

The main reasons why respondents would choose an e-car are the lower maintenance costs and lower emissions, 9% would buy one next time and 14% would definitely switch to an electric car in the future. 47% of those surveyed are considering buying a hybrid car.

The main concerns for potential buyers are the higher price tag and the cost of potential battery failures and replacement, as well as short range, slow charging times and the rapidly decreasing value of the vehicle. The best way to encourage respondents to switch to e-mobility would be to offer purchase price subsidies, tax and duty incentives and to increase the number of charging stations," the statement says.

Roland László, head of EY's business consulting practice, was of the view in the statement that personalized offers could increase the uptake of electric and hybrid cars. However, to do this, dealers need to operate a customer relationship management system that effectively supports individual needs.

Tamás Vékási, head of EY's tax advisory business, said that domestic companies have the opportunity to stimulate the spread of e-mobility. There are a number of tax incentives available to companies for environmentally friendly investments. Many people do not know that this also includes employers providing electric transport for their employees.