New household potential analysis: Replacing fossil-fuelled cars with EVs while sticking to driving behavior

Several cities and regions in Europe and the North Sea Region are developing strategies to bring forth electric mobility. Few studies have addressed the question whether it is possible for households to replace one or even more cars with an electric one, while maintaining the greater part of their current driving behavior. In this report, produced by E-Mobility NSR partner TU Delft, a research team investigated the potential of switching from the perspective of the built environment. It was found that the location affects whether commuters drive more than 50 kilometers to work: commuters living in the outskirts and suburbs of the cities, or in villages and the countryside, drive longer distances. However, as they also own more cars on average, they have a higher potential to replace at least one fuel-based car for an EV.

This comparative study was based on a multi-national survey among respondents in urban areas in the seven NSR countries. Households were asked to report on their residential and work locations, their driving behavior, and many other characteristics. Based on these characteristics, it was calculated whether they have the potential to drive electric, resulting in six conditions to drive electric. It is noteworthy that a random sample from each urban region was selected rather than specific households who consider an EV. Consequently, the data represent general driving behavior.

Download the study here or access it via the info pool.