Kiwi drivers’ EV attitude changes

New research reveals Kiwi drivers experience a significant change in attitude when they’re behind the wheel of an EV, from feeling less stressed to scoring bragging rights.

Almost half (43%) of Kiwis under 45-years-old admit they feel calm and relaxed driving an EV because it’s quieter and smoother than an internal combustion engine (ICE) car.

The research was part of a special report commissioned by Avis New Zealand, done by YouGov Research, to provide a full picture of the changing interests and needs of Kiwi road-trippers over the past year and into the future.

This study was held online between April 3-13, 2023 among 1256 New Zealanders aged 18 years and over.

The positive impact of EVs on the environment is well documented but one that is often overlooked is the calming nature of driving an EV which more than a quarter (28%) of Kiwis say results in improving their mood and making them more mindful when driving.

“Our customers often say the first thing they notice about driving an EV is how quiet it is, and what our research shows is that it can have a positive effect on your well-being,” says Avis New Zealand general manager Bryn McGoldrick.

While the research found the ability to enjoy a calm and relaxed car journey is easier in an EV, one in three motorists (32%) prefer driving an EV because it aligns with their views on sustainability, including most (60%) agreeing an EV road trip is a more sustainable way to take a holiday – particularly when compared to taking a flight or a cruise.

“For some people, road tripping can be stressful – so renting an EV is one way to alleviate that,” McGoldrick says.

“We have well over 100 EVs in our fleet, so we’re in a great position to not only capture Kiwis growing interest in greener transport solutions but also offer them greater choice.”

The under-45-year-old age group appear to be the most image conscious, admitting that driving an EV makes them feel cool (22%) and gives them bragging rights among friends and family (15%).

Avis Budget Group is a global provider of transportation solutions, both through its Avis and Budget brands which have more than 11,000 rental locations in about 180 countries, and through its  Zipcar car sharing network.