Shell has published insights from its 2025 Shell Recharge Driver Survey, which looks at the view of over 15,000 drivers across Europe, USA and China. Fiindings reveal a growing divide in attitudes toward electric vehicle (EV) adoption. While existing EV drivers report increased confidence and satisfaction, interest among internal combustion engine (ICE) drivers has plateaued or declined.
The survey highlights a significant increase in confidence among existing EV drivers. Six in ten EV drivers globally agree that they worry less than a year ago about running out of charge, and nearly three-quarters (72%) say that the options and availability of public charging points has improved.
However, the research also found appetite for EVs among ICE drivers is declining. In the US, the interest is marginally lower (31% in 2025 versus 34% in 2024), while in Europe, it has decreased more substantially (41% in 2025 versus 48% in 2024).
Cost remains the leading barrier to EV adoption, particularly in Europe, where 43% of non-EV drivers cite affordability. According to the IEA’s Global EV Outlook 2025, vehicle prices in Europe have stagnated - despite falling battery costs - which, alongside high energy bills and broader economic pressures, may be shaping consumer sentiment.
Mixed support for phasing out traditional fuel vehicles
Signalling a strong commitment to the transition towards electric mobility, nine in ten (91%) current EV drivers (both Battery EVs and Plug-in Hybrid EVs) indicate they would consider another EV as their next vehicle.
When it comes to policies encouraging the phase-out of ICE vehicles, 46% of drivers of petrol and diesel cars in the USA say they agree with such policies, and in Europe the figure is 44%. That backing also appears conditional on changes in prices of EVs: only 56% of the supporters of ICE phase-out would continue their support if EVs stay more expensive than petrol and diesel vehicles. 50% would still support ICE phase-out if charging infrastructure does not improve.
David Bunch, Group Executive VP of Shell Mobility & Convenience said: “Shell has established strong public charging networks in key markets worldwide, and this research reinforces what we hear from our customers: there’s a growing disparity in the transition to electric vehicles.
While current EV drivers are feeling more confident, the relatively high cost of owning an electric vehicle, combined with broader economic pressures, are making it a difficult decision for new consumers.” Bunch called for a comprehensive, systems-wide approach to decarbonisation, combining electrification with low-carbon fuels.
“With the right policies and industry collaboration, we can make the transition affordable for consumers and attractive for investors. But more must be done to stimulate demand and ensure no one is left behind in the shift to cleaner transport.”
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