Some 53% of UK dealers plan to stock alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) on their forecourts in the next five years, according to a survey from Close Brothers Motor Finance.
Almost three in 10 dealers already stock AFVs, with two thirds of those dealers planning to increase it and 24% planning to maintain their current level. Just 2% of dealers want to decrease their current stock.
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For dealers who do not currently stock AFVs, three in 10 plan to do so within the next year.
With the UK expecting a ban on all emissions-vehicles by 2035, dealers are experiencing a shift in the expectations to stock more electric and low-emission cars, said Close Brothers. However, some dealers remain unconvinced, with just under a fifth (18%) admitting that they do not stock AFVs and don’t intend to anytime soon.
Seán Kemple, director of sales at Close Brothers Motor Finance, said: “Dealers are on the front line as the UK moves closer towards an emissions-free industry. So it’s encouraging to see more dealers building up their stock and planning to do so over the next few years.
“As demand for affordable AFVs increases, dealers are reacting to buying patterns and listening to the considerations of consumers. The Government’s recent pledge to inject £500m into building up rapid charging hubs and zero-emission cars should be a great support for dealers overhauling their stock.
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By GlobalData“But the industry still has a long drive ahead before it can meet the Government’s ambitious targets. It’s vital that dealers get the support that they need, especially those who remain hesitant about supplying AFVs on their forecourts. The UK has the potential to be a world leader in AFVs, but only if the Government, manufacturers, dealers, and consumers all work together to ease the transition.”
