Greener transport options ‘vital for cleaner, healthier cities’, poll finds

Almost three-quarters of Britons believe greener transport options are vital for creating cleaner, healthier cities, an E.ON poll⁽¹⁾ has found, with electric buses or trams coupled with increased space for cycle lanes needed as part of a national priority to combat climate change and improve air quality.

In a nationwide poll for E.ON, nearly 70% of people agreed that new investment in greener transport options is essential for improving our cities. But in the same poll, more than half of people said the drive to switch to cleaner electric motoring was being hampered by a lack of charging stations in their local areas.

The issue is particularly being felt in rural communities, with more than 70% of people saying EV charging infrastructure in their area was not readily available, nor was it growing to meet demand.

At the same time, almost 90% of motorists said they would need a range of alternatives and incentives such as tax breaks or subsidies to persuade them to give up their cars in exchange for more sustainable transport or car sharing options.

Commenting on the research, Natalie Robinson, Head of New City Partnerships at E.ON UK, said: “It’s clear from this research that the British public see the benefits of drastic change in how we get around. To achieve this, transport providers, local authorities, and charging providers all have a role to play in ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place.

E.ON’s commitment to developing EV infrastructure around the country is a key step toward bridging the gap between urban and rural areas and by giving drivers the confidence they need that the charging network is growing to meet their needs. By investing in ultra-fast charging hubs, collaborating with local councils, and expanding our charging network across the UK, we are ensuring greener transport solutions are accessible to all.”

The survey of 1,000 adults around the UK reveals overwhelming support for sustainable urban transport solutions, including electric vehicles (EVs), bike sharing schemes, and enhanced public transport.

Seven out of 10 people agreed improving infrastructure is critical to making green transport more accessible and practical for everyday life, with rural residents emphasising the urgent need for EV charging stations in their communities.

The rural gap in EV infrastructure

The poll reveals a stark contrast in availability of electric vehicle charging, depending on where people live, showing a need for targeted action to ensure that EVs are a viable option for everyone, regardless of geography.

• Fewer than 10% of people living in rural areas say EV charging stations are readily available and expanding in their area
• In urban areas, people are nearly twice as satisfied with the EV infrastructure near their homes (19.6%), compared to those in suburban or rural areas (9.9%)
• In fact, rural residents express the greatest dissatisfaction with EV charging infrastructure, with nearly 72% say they are under-served by charging provision

Alternatives and incentives to drive change

The survey also highlights that 87% of respondents agree motorists need a mix of alternatives and incentives to switch to sustainable transport. These include:

• Tax breaks and subsidies to offset the costs of transitioning to electric vehicles
• Expanded public transport options, such as eco-friendly buses and trains
• Increased EV charging points at workplaces, shopping centres, and leisure destinations

People living in suburban areas were the strongest advocates for these measures, with 65% strongly agreeing that practical incentives and infrastructure upgrades are critical for encouraging greener choices.

Delivering EV infrastructure across the UK

E.ON is playing a key role in supporting the development of EV charging infrastructure across the UK. From customer homes and businesses to urban hubs and rural charging destinations, E.ON is contributing to a growing network of accessible and reliable charging points, helping more people embrace the electric transport revolution.

The company’s latest ultra-fast public EV charging hub, its first in Wales, is just the latest example and includes 10 ultra-fast 300kW charging bays capable of delivering 150 miles of range in just 10 minutes.

E.ON Drive’s growing portfolio of charging hubs spans the UK, including strategic locations in urban areas and along key transport routes, and are designed to meet the needs of EV drivers whether they’re city commuters, suburban families, or rural adventurers. E.ON has also announced plans for new ultra-rapid EV charging hubs at six sites across Scotland. The 42 high-powered chargers will be installed in key locations near cities such as Dundee, Edinburgh, Stirling, and Aberdeen, providing reliable, high-speed charging options for both local commuters and tourists exploring Scotland’s scenic landscapes.

In Coventry, E.ON’s strategic energy partnership with the city council is supporting its ambition to build on its heritage as home of the UK motor industry and to become a leader in green transport. With nearly 500 charging points per 100,000 residents, Coventry is already one of the UK’s most EV-friendly cities outside London, cementing its place as a model for urban sustainability.