Shell’s 2026 Electromobility Study: “Electrified Mobility Is Becoming Mainstream”
Image: Shell
Electromobility in Germany is continuing to evolve from a niche market toward mainstream adoption. Nearly nine out of ten current electric vehicle owners can imagine driving their next vehicle electric as well. At the same time, more than one in three owners of internal combustion or hybrid vehicles are considering switching to an electric car.
The “Shell Electromobility Study 2026” arrives at these findings. The oil giant, which has now also made substantial investments in charging stations, presents its annual analysis for the ninth time. High acceptance of electric vehicles is particularly evident among current users: 89 percent of electric car owners would consider buying another electric vehicle. Meanwhile, 37 percent of current non-electric vehicle drivers are already thinking about purchasing an electric car.
The study also shows that perceptions of charging infrastructure have improved. More than two-thirds of electric car owners see progress in the availability of public charging points. Nearly as many report improvements in reliability, location quality, and provider selection.
The way they are used is also changing. Electric vehicles are increasingly being used as full-fledged cars. More than two-thirds of those surveyed have already taken longer trips in their electric vehicles. Only one in 16 drivers says they avoid long-distance travel due to charging infrastructure.
Despite this positive development, economic factors remain the biggest challenge for further market growth. Around four in ten non-electric vehicle owners consider range and charging issues to be significant obstacles, while three in ten cite purchase costs.
The study also shows that fast charging is increasingly being combined with service and retail offerings. Every second electric vehicle driver buys coffee regularly at gas stations or charging hubs, about one third uses shop or dining services, while roughly another third makes use of vehicle washing services on a regular basis.
"The results show that electric mobility is now an everyday reality for many people," says Florian Glattes, head of Shell Mobility’s Germany, Austria, and Switzerland business unit. "The discussion is increasingly shifting from whether electric mobility works to how easy, reliable, and comfortable it is to use in daily life. Nearly nine out of ten current electric vehicle owners want to stay with electric vehicles. Therefore, in the future, it won’t just be charging stations that will be decisive, but the overall user experience — from reliable charging infrastructure and digital services to attractive offers during charging."
Key findings of the study
89% of electric vehicle owners would consider buying another electric vehicle.
37% of non-electric vehicle owners are thinking about making the switch.
81% of electric vehicle owners have a charging facility at home.
More than two-thirds have already taken long-distance trips in an electric vehicle.
69% of electric vehicle owners see improvements in the availability of public charging stations; 67% notice a greater variety of charging providers now.
For 42%, charging costs are crucial, while for 38%, charging speed is important.
73% would take a detour to use a more reliable charging station.
54% would be willing to pay more for faster charging.
Half of electric vehicle owners regularly buy coffee at gas stations or charging hubs.
41% would like hot meals or dining options at charging locations; 38% value shopping opportunities while charging.
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About the author
Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with professional experience in the automotive industry and finance sector. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.
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