A survey conducted by the ACL among its members reveals a gradual but still hesitant transition to electric vehicles in Luxembourg. While nearly 38% of respondents already use a 100% electric car, a majority remain attached to combustion engine or hybrid vehicles. Analysis.
Between August and September, the Automobile Club du Luxembourg conducted a survey to find out its members’ views on the issue of electromobility, ahead of the Go Electric Day event to be held on 19 October at La Coque. A total of 1,075 members responded, and their answers reveal a divided opinion between the desire for change and persistent obstacles related to range, cost and infrastructure.
Adoption is underway, but still tentative
Nearly 38% of respondents say they use a 100% electric car, an encouraging figure that reflects growing adoption. Among them, 83% use it as their main vehicle, and 64% have purchased it personally, a sign of voluntary commitment. It should be noted that 30% have acquired this car through private leasing and 6% as a company car provided by their employer.
On the other hand, 39% of those surveyed do not plan to switch to electric in the next five years and 46% are undecided. Concerns remain high, particularly among users of combustion engine vehicles (58%) and hybrids. However, this large proportion of undecided respondents shows that there is significant potential, provided that concrete answers and appropriate support are provided.
The main obstacles to switching to electric vehicles are, in order of importance, insufficient range, high purchase price and a lack of charging stations. On this last point, Luxembourg is one of the best-equipped European countries in terms of public charging stations. Nevertheless, 31% of respondents believe that they do not have the possibility of recharging at home, whether in a detached house or an apartment building.
Outside the home, 61% can recharge their electric vehicles in their municipality, 12% at work and 3% at a P+R where they usually park. However, 18% say they live in an area with no charging stations and 28% say the alternatives are not practical for everyday use.
In terms of range, 60% of members believe they need a minimum range of 500 km and 26% a minimum range of 400 km. Only 11% consider a range of 300 kilometres to be sufficient.
When it comes to price, members are clearly divided on the issue. 20% believe that the maximum price for a 100% electric car should be between £17,000 and £23,000, 25% between £25,000 and £30,000, 23% between £40,000 and £50,000, and 22% above £50,000.
When it comes to second-hand cars, members are categorical. 88% of respondents prefer a new model. The reasons? Full warranty (67%), full battery capacity (67%) and access to the latest technology (74%). Second-hand cars are less appealing, although some see them as environmentally friendly, economical and with shorter waiting times.
Conclusion: a transition that needs support
This survey shows that although electromobility is progressing in Luxembourg, it remains hampered by practical concerns. To accelerate the transition, expectations in terms of range, price, infrastructure and information will need to be met. The challenge is as much technological as it is human: to convince without coercing, and to support without rushing.
