Increasingly, a significant number of individuals opt for electric vehicles as they traverse over 20,000 kilometers
The electric car market is witnessing a significant shift, with more frequent drivers opting for electric vehicles (EVs) for long-distance travel. This trend, once a marginal phenomenon, is now becoming a noticeable trend among those who clock high annual mileage.
In the second quarter of 2025, 6.1% of frequent drivers chose a purely electric car when they last changed their vehicle. This figure represents a third more than infrequent drivers (4.2%). The primary drivers for this trend are longer electric driving ranges, improved charging infrastructure, and advances in battery technology.
Increasing EV Ranges
Many 2025 electric vehicles now offer over 300 miles of range per charge, with top models like the Lucid Air reaching up to 512 miles. This extensive range reduces the need for frequent charging stops on long trips.
Better Battery Technology
Developments such as solid-state batteries promise higher energy storage and faster charging, making long-distance travel more feasible and convenient.
Expanded and Faster Charging Networks
The growing availability of public charging points, including rapid (50kW+) and ultra-rapid chargers (150kW+), placed every 20-30 miles on major routes, supports longer journeys by minimizing charging downtime.
Reduced Charging Anxiety
Destination charging at hotels, shopping centers, and workplaces further extends effective range by allowing drivers to recharge during stops unrelated to refueling.
Practical Considerations for High Daily Mileage Drivers
Frequent long-distance commuters, sales reps, or delivery drivers find long-range EVs especially beneficial to reduce charging frequency and improve route flexibility.
Environmental Awareness
Though longer-range EVs require larger batteries, many drivers balance range needs with environmental impact, choosing ranges appropriate for their travel without unnecessarily large batteries.
Market leaders like VW, BMW, and Mercedes are introducing models like the VW ID.7, BMW i4, and Mercedes EQE that cater to the needs of commuters, field service employees, and long-distance drivers.
Charging times for electric cars have decreased, making them more convenient for frequent drivers. Modern electric cars can achieve more than 400 kilometers on a single charge. Eighty percent of long-distance professionals who already drive an electric car plan to choose a plug-in car again when they next change their vehicle.
The network of fast-charging stations on highways is improving, reducing concerns about charging availability for long-distance travel. Lower energy costs are a significant factor in the choice of electric cars for frequent drivers, especially for those with favorable electricity tariffs or their own solar panels.
The trend of frequent drivers choosing electric cars over traditional vehicles is a significant development in the electric vehicle market. It indicates that range anxiety and charging frustration are losing their influence when it comes to long distances. This shift in preference also suggests that the skepticism of frequent drivers towards electric cars is decreasing.
More and more frequent drivers are choosing to drive electrically, with those traveling more than 20,000 kilometers per year being among the early adopters. The fast-charging network for electric cars has expanded, providing reassurance for those considering a switch to electric.
The E-Barometer of HUK Coburg from the second quarter of 2025 shows a clear signal of this trend towards electric cars among frequent drivers. Electric cars are gaining popularity in the long-distance driving scene, offering practicality, convenience, and environmental benefits.
In 2025, the rapid advancements in battery technology, such as the development of solid-state batteries, are contributing to longer electric driving ranges and faster charging for electric vehicles (EVs), making long-distance travel more feasible and convenient for frequent drivers.
Moreover, the expansion of fast-charging networks alongside the growing availability of public charging points, including rapid and ultra-rapid chargers, is supporting longer journeys by minimizing charging downtime, thereby increasing the preference for EVs among frequent drivers.
