Early-stage demand for electric and hybrid vehicles is rising ahead of traditional enquiry metrics, driven by higher fuel costs, new dealer network data shows.
Analysis from Force24, based on more than 30 UK dealer groups including Stoneacre Motor Group, Perrys Motor Sales, Chapelhouse Motor Group, Citygate Automotive and Vantage Motor Group, found a 52% increase in identified EV and hybrid research activity between February and March 2026.
The data suggests buyer behaviour is shifting weeks before enquiries or showroom visits increase, with more of the purchasing journey taking place online.
Rising fuel prices appear to be a key trigger. Diesel costs increased by around 17 pence per litre in late February, with petrol following a similar trend, coinciding with a sharp rise in alternative powertrain research.
The trend has continued into April, with activity levels forecast to exceed March by a further 25% to 30%, indicating demand is still building rather than peaking.
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A broader shift in consumer consideration for EVs
Across the networks analysed, every dealership recorded an increase in EV and hybrid research over the period. In several cases, April volumes have already surpassed March levels.
The mix of interest has remained consistent, with EVs accounting for 63% of research activity and hybrids 37%, pointing to a broader shift in consumer consideration rather than a move towards a single powertrain.
Force24 said the findings highlight a gap between early-stage digital behaviour and traditional demand indicators such as enquiries, test drives and registrations.
Research activity typically precedes direct customer contact by four to 12 weeks, suggesting dealers tracking these signals may be better positioned to anticipate shifts in demand driven by external factors such as fuel prices.