Consumer Scotland has recommended that the 2031 Census includes information on the number of electric vehicles (EVs) owned by households for the first time.
Current EV data relies on sales or licensing figures, which do not provide insight into actual geographic distribution or how adoption varies across different demographic groups.
Improved data would help design fair and effective strategies to encourage EV uptake and ensure consumers have access to essential charging infrastructure.
This is critical to meeting Scotland’s net zero targets while avoiding barriers for households making the switch.
Previous Consumer Scotland research revealed significant concerns around public charging availability for EVs in Scotland, as well as concerns over cost and reliability.
Head of Analysis at Consumer Scotland Eleanor Mullan said:
“Understanding where and how electric vehicles are being adopted is essential for planning the infrastructure and support consumers need.
“Without accurate data, there’s a risk that some communities will be left behind in the transition to cleaner transport. Including EV ownership in the 2031 Census would give policymakers the evidence they need to make informed, fair decisions.”
In addition to EV data, Consumer Scotland is also recommending the inclusion of household income and council tax band information in the Census.
These measures would strengthen affordability policy and help ensure fair water charging, as water costs in Scotland are linked to council tax bands.
The recommendations were made as part of Consumer Scotland’s response to a consultation by the National Records of Scotland (NRS) on the topics to be included in the 2031 census.
NRS is responsible for conducting Scotland’s census on behalf of the Registrar General for Scotland.
Background
Consumer Scotland response to NRS consultation on Scotland's census 2031 topics
Previous research on EVs by Consumer Scotland conducted by YouGov found charging was the primary cause of complaint, with a stark difference between the experience of charging at home versus public charging.
There are also concerns around availability and reliability of the public charging network with significant anxiety about being able to charge EVs when required.