More Australians are considering buying electric vehicles but concerns about battery life, charging access and repairs remain barriers to wider adoption, research from NRMA Insurance has found.

The insurer’s Changing Gears report says the proportion of respondents interested in buying battery EVs has risen to 31% this year from 20% when the survey was first conducted in 2024. Interest in plug-in hybrids has increased to 58% from 41%.

Only 17% of Australians would not consider buying an EV.

NRMA Insurance CEO Julie Batch says the market has entered a new phase, with drivers increasingly focused on the practicalities of ownership rather than the technology.

“There’s no doubt 2026 has been the tipping point for EV adoption,” she said, pointing to more affordable vehicles, expanded charging infrastructure and government incentives.

Among those who would not consider an EV, battery health and longevity is the top concern, cited by 60%, followed by driving range (56%), charging time (54%) and battery fire risk (52%).

Almost half point to a lack of public charging infrastructure and 35% say they cannot charge a vehicle at home.

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More than half (57%) have concerns about the availability of qualified mechanics in their area.

The report notes battery health is a barrier to the development of a second-hand EV market. More than half of respondents considering an EV might buy a used vehicle, and 82% believe there should be a way to monitor and test battery health.

Ms Batch says many people have outdated perceptions of EV ownership.

“For example, independent battery testing is already widely available and can provide buyers with a clear picture of a battery’s condition. EV battery fires are extremely rare and, when charged correctly, there’s virtually zero fire risk.”

Shawn Ticehurst, head of automotive research at NRMA Insurance added: “While 26% of EV non-considerers say a lack of mechanics is a barrier, the industry is rapidly building the skills and training needed to support more EVs on Australian roads.”

NRMA Insurance says EVs account for about 3% of its motor policies, but it expects that to reach about 10% by 2030.

The report calls for a nationally consistent battery health standard, improved charging access for apartment residents, expanded repair capability and a clearer framework for battery recycling and disposal.

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