Electric cars too expensive, though half of Dutch consumers want one

If electric cars were not more expensive than old-fashioned petrol or diesel cars, 51 percent of Dutch drivers would seriously consider buying one, according to a survey done by Maurice de Hond on behalf of the Association of Electric Drivers.

As it is, only 4 percent of the Dutch indicated that they will definitely buy an electric car within the next five years. And a quarter are considering it, but are not yet sure. Most of the respondents who definitely want to buy an electric car soon, are between the ages of 45 and 54 years old. Most of those considering it, are between the ages of 35 and 44 years.

If electric car prices were more in line with regular car prices, 10 percent would definitely buy one and 51 percent would seriously consider it. 15 percent indicated that price is not the only factor in their consideration.

The biggest reasons to buy an electric car, according to the respondents, are that it is good for the environment and cheaper to use. The biggest drawbacks are purchase price and number of kilometers that can be driven on a single battery.