Half of Portuguese people are unaware of the benefits of buying an electric car

The Portuguese say they are not well-informed about most topics: from the new regulations relating to engines and circulation, to prices and new brands. On the other hand, in line with the European average, it is in new technologies that they are more up to date with information (new types of motorization, energy and connected vehicles).

These conclusions result from an analysis that reveals that the complexity and volatility in the automotive sector make the Portuguese feel uninformed.

The data is shared by Observador Automóvel 2024, in a study carried out by Cetelem.

Misinformation and complexity

Misinformation also covers State support regarding the acquisition of electric vehicles. In Portugal, while individuals can receive an incentive of 4 thousand euros, for companies this amount reaches 6 thousand euros, also being exempt from paying VAT.

However, around 51% of respondents say they do not know what benefits are available. Furthermore, 56% argue that these measures do not meet the needs of motorists and opinions are divided when the question is whether these measures will be maintained or disappear in the future. Finally, among those who know about them, around 42% say that the amount of support will remain at the same level.

As for brands, the majority (96%) of Portuguese people reveal that they have a good opinion about emblems of European origin. Japanese and North American brands also enjoy a good reputation among consumers.

Lack of information is transversal to all countries surveyed

According to the study, European countries reveal a lack of knowledge on most topics. Japan presents a much higher level of disinformation than all the other countries where the study was carried out, with scores that systematically exceed 70%. It should also be noted that women, the elderly and people with lower incomes are more likely to report being misinformed.

One in two people points out, firstly, the lack of information about the new regulations relating to motorization and circulation. Secondly, information about new brands does not convince 48% of people surveyed. In almost equal proportions, motorists believe that they do not have all the necessary data on price developments (45%).

The information associated with technologies also, similar to the Portuguese results, seems to be the one that is best communicated: 4 out of 10 people say they are poorly informed on this subject.

Regarding support in each country to help with the transition to electric vehicles, 8 out of 10 people consider them essential, but more than 7 out of 10 consider them very confusing. One in five people thinks that these measures will continue to exist and expects them to decrease.

Regarding the choice of brands, European brands are also those that benefit from a better reputation: their image is positive for 9 out of 10 people. Japanese brands have 82% favorable opinions. American brands occupy third place in this classification, with a score of 73%, and the country that occupies fourth position is Korea, with 63% favorable opinions. Despite being the world’s leading manufacturer in the automotive sector, China did not enjoy good recognition, with just under 1 in 2 people having a favorable opinion about brands originating in the country.