Third of Brits blocked from driving certain type of car after learning in an EV

A study by BYD has found that a third of young drivers want to learn behind the wheel of an EV (Image: Getty)

A new study has found that a considerable number of younger motorists are learning to drive in electric vehicles, preventing themselves from being able to use a certain kind of car.

Still a controversial subject for many drivers around the world, electric cars are here to stay, with the Government planning to end the sale of new petrol and diesel models by 2030 and hybrids by 2035.

Whilst some motorists have their reservations surrounding EVs, Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director at BYD UK, highlighted that many drivers under the age of 35 want to be awarded their licence behind the wheel of an electric car.

He said: "Our research shows that younger drivers, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are really embracing electric vehicles.

"Their interest in learning to drive in EVs is driven by a mix of excitement for new technology and a desire to make more environmentally conscious choices."

EVs have an automatic transmission, meaning those learning in one will be unable to drive a manual (Image: Getty)

According to BYD's survey, which assessed the views of 2,000 Brits aged 18 to 34, a staggering 36 % stated that they would prefer to learn how to drive in an electric car, compared to a petrol or diesel model.

This is likely because many younger drivers are more interested in the technology used in EVs and believe that petrol or diesel-powered models will have a limited future.

However, by passing their driving test using an electric vehicle, motorists will only be able to use vehicles with an automatic transmission, with those behind the wheel of a manual car liable to a fine of up to £1,000 and even six penalty points.

Nevertheless, to keep up with demand from younger drivers looking to learn in an electric car, Steve recommended that instructors carefully consider the vehicles they use.

He warned: "As the UK heads towards its 2035 target for zero-emission vehicles, EVs will play a much bigger role in driving education. Driving schools will need to continue supporting this shift by adding EVs to their fleets, keeping up with the growing interest from learners.

"This will make sure the next generation of drivers is ready for a future built around sustainable mobility."