Austria's young drivers embrace electric cars after positive test rides

Nearly two-thirds of car owners in Austria have already gained experience with electric vehicles—either as drivers or passengers (68%). Some 39% have personally driven an electric car, according to a recent trend survey conducted for AutoScout24.at among 500 Austrian motorists.

"For many people, electric cars are no longer just a future concept but already part of everyday life," says Nikolaus Menches of AutoScout24 Austria. "Firsthand experience with e-mobility is crucial—it helps address uncertainties and answer lingering questions. We still see a need for more information, especially among those considering used electric vehicles. Yet buying a secondhand EV today is a reliable, sustainable, and economically sound choice—not to mention the compelling driving experience, which seems to quickly dispel many reservations."

Just under four in ten respondents have already driven an electric car themselves. The data reveals clear differences: men report significantly more driving experience than women (53% vs. 26%), and education levels also play a role, with 49% of those with higher formal education having driven an EV. Urban residents are also above average (55%). The likelihood of having driven an electric car increases with higher annual mileage.

Those who transition from riding as a passenger to driving an EV themselves often encounter a pleasant surprise. A full 74% of electric car drivers describe the experience as positive, with 31% calling it highly convincing to sensational and another 18% predominantly positive. Some remain neutral (22%), while critical voices are rare—just 5% rate the experience negatively.

A clear pattern emerges: the younger the respondents, the greater their enthusiasm. Those with higher education also express above-average satisfaction. For example, 85% of 18- to 20-year-olds are convinced by the driving experience, as are those with advanced educational qualifications.