A new survey has revealed that despite a huge surge in interest in EV ownership down under, almost half of Aussie motorists don’t feel prepared or informed enough to move away from their current combustion-engined vehicle.

Data from Allianz Insurance reveals that EV policy inquiries have increased by 66 per cent compared to the same time last year, but new car buyers still harbour significant reservations about moving to an electric vehicle.

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A significant 47 per cent of respondents who don’t own EVs said they didn’t feel prepared to make an immediate switch away from petrol or diesel power. A lack of information or education stood as one of the primary reasons.

On the flip side, among the EV owners surveyed, 68 per cent said they felt prepared when they made the change away from combustion.

Non-EV owners cited concerns including a lack of confidence about battery longevity (34 per cent), uncertainty about public charging infrastructure (29 per cent), and a lack of confidence in making the transition (26 per cent).

Of the non-EV owners surveyed, 26 per cent revealed that they could be lured to an EV due to the potential financial benefits, with 22 per cent citing sustainability as a motivating factor.

Safety concerns also played a role. Worries about pedestrian and cyclist safety, owing to the quietness of EVs, were flagged by 42 per cent of respondents, with 35 per cent expressing uneasiness about adjusting to the brisk acceleration offered by some EVs.

EV owners also reported less-than-perfect initial experiences when they made the switch. Charging issues were reported by 19 per cent, while 18 per cent experienced frustrations at falling short of the expected or advertised range.

Survey results were drawn from 178 EV owners and 918 non-EV owners nationally.

“While many drivers feel confident transitioning to an EV, our research shows there can still be a learning curve when it comes to understanding some of the unique features and requirements that come with driving an EV,” Allianz emerging risks manager Chris Wood said in a statement.

“Building knowledge and experience behind the wheel is what helps Australians get the most out of their EV safely.”