Go back several years and electric cars looked to have a big future with a strong surge of early adopters. And it was the same the world over. But this year sales have plateaued leaving many industry pundits pondering as to why. In February, the NRMA conducted an on-line survey with some 2079 motorists about their car buying habits, with a particular focus on EVs. They found that EVs have an image problem which in the eyes of new car buyers makes them seem inferior to internal combustion engined and hybrid vehicles, many are not convinced they’re the most environmentally friendly choice with 68 per cent also believing petrol and diesel vehicles easier to sell. Also found, while EV’s narrow the cost gap in terms of running expenses only 30 per cent of respondents believed they are the most economical option. I’m David Berthon.