Since the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report confirmed they have evidence humanity is to blame for rising temperatures across the world, the increasing risk of greater global warming is at the forefront of everybody’s minds. With over 290 million cars on the road in Europe, research from Uswitch.com, the comparison and switching service, has revealed which EU countries are leading the way and making the biggest increases in alternative fuel vehicles.
Over the past 10 years, Cyprus has seen a 167% annual increase in alternative fuel vehicles (783 compared to 0), with Luxembourg and Ireland coming in second and third place for the biggest increases. Luxembourg’s alternative fuel vehicle rate increased by an annual average of 106% (8,957 compared to 0) in ten years, and Ireland’s increased by 105% (20,937 compared to 0) on average per year.
The report reveals Hungary’s biggest increases in the electric vehicle market, as well as the most popular alternative car fuel.
Further key findings
- Hungary has seen the biggest increase in electric vehicles, with 35 more on the road and an annual growth rate of 100%
- Leading the way in alternative fuels is Cyprus, which has seen a 167% annual increase in alternative fuel vehicles in the last 10 years
- Following on, Luxembourg and Ireland come in second and third place with 106% and 105% average annual growth on alternative fuel vehicles respectively.
- Europe has eight times more electric cars on the road in 2020 compared to 2015
Will Owen, energy expert at Uswitch.com comments:
“With Cyprus and Luxembourg leading the way in the electric and alternative fuel vehicle market, across the EU, it shows we are heading in the right direction to achieve more eco-friendly vehicles on the road.
“Here are our top tips if you’re considering buying an alternative fuel car:
- Think about what type of vehicle you need. If you live in the city, you’ll tend to drive slower so a small hybrid model would be more suitable for fuel efficiency.
- Commit to the upkeep. Learn what the different alternative fuels are and check the price. While they’re likely to be cheaper than petrol or diesel, know what you’re committing to, for example, a replacement battery in the future.
- Know how far you can travel. Consider how many fuel stations are in your area that can power your preferred alternative fuel vehicle.
- Time to charge. Factor how long it will take to charge or power your energy efficient car. Depending on the battery size, it can take up to two hours for some models.”
Source: Daily News Hungary
