Electric cars are increasing in popularity, but is charging infrastructure network sufficient? How can destinations and businesses better meet the needs of this market? In this opinion piece, we provide an overview of the topic, examples of initiatives taken by governments, DMOs and businesses, as well as outline a series of recommendations of how to best cater to the needs of this group of consumers.
Approximately a quarter of new cars sold in Europe are Electric Vehicles (EVs), with many governments announcing the phase out of more polluting diesel and petrol fuelled cars. However, while EV prices have become more affordable, concerns regarding the charging infrastructure are the largest deterrent to switching from a combustion vehicle. 1/3 of consumers believe there is a lack of charging points in their location (34%), with another 33% anxious about the vehicle range of EVs, according to a study by EY.
Rural areas in particular are where the biggest infrastructural roll-outs will be required. With an increased desire to drive to uncrowded and scenic natural locations on holiday, charging infrastructure is an area that DMOs should put increased attention towards.
When considering how to improve a destination or businesses ability to serve their customers needs through the provision of adequate infrastructure, government grants are key for obtaining funding for the transition towards facilitating EVs within the tourism sector:
Other initiatives taken by governments and DMOs to encourage the uptake of EVs focus on developing strong partnerships and working more directly with the tourism sector:
Engaging with the private sector is also key to innovative actions towards sustainable transport and supporting the promotion of destinations:
These initiatives show strong governmental support for the transition towards EVs and facilitating cleaner and greener travel methods. DMOs have collaborated with local operators and non-tourism providers to improve their offerings for EV owners and present positive images of their destination. This was achieved not only by the development of tourism routes, but also through social media and informational campaigns.
Meanwhile, the private sector has been active in launching new products and events that specifically meet the needs of EV drivers and car afficionados. By reassuring travellers of the infrastructural capabilities in destinations, tourists are more relaxed and willing to travel in a more sustainable manner.
Approximately a quarter of new cars sold in Europe are Electric Vehicles (EVs), with many governments announcing the phase out of more polluting diesel and petrol fuelled cars. However, while EV prices have become more affordable, concerns regarding the charging infrastructure are the largest deterrent to switching from a combustion vehicle. 1/3 of consumers believe there is a lack of charging points in their location (34%), with another 33% anxious about the vehicle range of EVs, according to a study by EY.
Rural areas in particular are where the biggest infrastructural roll-outs will be required. With an increased desire to drive to uncrowded and scenic natural locations on holiday, charging infrastructure is an area that DMOs should put increased attention towards.
When considering how to improve a destination or businesses ability to serve their customers needs through the provision of adequate infrastructure, government grants are key for obtaining funding for the transition towards facilitating EVs within the tourism sector:
Other initiatives taken by governments and DMOs to encourage the uptake of EVs focus on developing strong partnerships and working more directly with the tourism sector:
Engaging with the private sector is also key to innovative actions towards sustainable transport and supporting the promotion of destinations:
These initiatives show strong governmental support for the transition towards EVs and facilitating cleaner and greener travel methods. DMOs have collaborated with local operators and non-tourism providers to improve their offerings for EV owners and present positive images of their destination. This was achieved not only by the development of tourism routes, but also through social media and informational campaigns.
Meanwhile, the private sector has been active in launching new products and events that specifically meet the needs of EV drivers and car afficionados. By reassuring travellers of the infrastructural capabilities in destinations, tourists are more relaxed and willing to travel in a more sustainable manner.
Approximately a quarter of new cars sold in Europe are Electric Vehicles (EVs), with many governments announcing the phase out of more polluting diesel and petrol fuelled cars. However, while EV prices have become more affordable, concerns regarding the charging infrastructure are the largest deterrent to switching from a combustion vehicle. This article outlines some actions being taken to boost EV charging point infrastructure in destinations.
Approximately a quarter of new cars sold in Europe are Electric Vehicles (EVs), with many governments announcing the phase out of more polluting diesel and petrol fuelled cars. However, while EV prices have become more affordable, concerns regarding the charging infrastructure are the largest deterrent to switching from a combustion vehicle. This article outlines some actions being taken to boost EV charging point infrastructure in destinations.
Approximately a quarter of new cars sold in Europe are Electric Vehicles (EVs), with many governments announcing the phase out of more polluting diesel and petrol fuelled cars. However, while EV prices have become more affordable, concerns regarding the charging infrastructure are the largest deterrent to switching from a combustion vehicle. This article outlines some actions being taken to boost EV charging point infrastructure in destinations.