eReadiness 2026

Tracking the future of e-mobility

Driving into the Future: the global expansion of electric vehicles and the transition to electric mobility in 2026

The Strategy& eReadiness Survey 2026 explores the evolution of electric mobility across 31 countries, drawing on insights from more than 19,000 consumers worldwide. The study examines the attitudes and behaviours of current electric vehicle (EV) owners, prospective buyers and sceptics, while assessing each market’s readiness for the transition to electric mobility. It also compares progress across key dimensions, including charging infrastructure, policy incentives, supply and demand dynamics.

Global key findings include:

  • Demand for electric vehicles remains strong, with 62% of consumers intending to purchase an EV within the next five years. However, the greatest growth opportunity lies in converting the large segment of consumers who have yet to embrace electric mobility.
  • The next phase of market growth will be driven by mainstream consumers, who prioritise affordability, quality and convenience over sustainability considerations. While satisfaction among EV owners remains high, concerns regarding charging times, battery performance and vehicle affordability continue to influence purchasing decisions.

Focus on the Italian market:

  • Italy is still lagging behind in the transition to electric vehicles: in the first half of 2026, electric cars accounted for 8% of new registrations, compared with the EU-27 average of 21%. If current trends continue, Italy would not achieve the European zero-emissions target until 2042.
  • Public charging remains a critical issue: Italy ranks last among the five main European markets in terms of the roll-out of high-power charging points and the number of charging points relative to the vehicle fleet. User satisfaction is also declining, particularly regarding the location, availability and operation of charging points.

Strategic priorities:

  • Accelerate the development of accessible, reliable and high-performance charging infrastructure, expanding the availability of high-power charging points, improving geographical coverage and enhancing the overall charging experience through greater reliability and accessibility.
  • Increase the affordability and accessibility of electric vehicles, expanding the availability of entry-level EVs, fostering price convergence with internal combustion engine vehicles and highlighting improvements in driving range and operating costs.
  • Develop EV offerings and value propositions tailored to mainstream consumers, aligning products, services and customer experiences with evolving consumer needs and expectations.
  • Strengthen consumer confidence in battery durability, reliability and overall vehicle performance, addressing concerns related to long-term ownership and everyday usability.
  • Establish a framework for autonomous driving and build consumer trust in autonomous technologies, promoting regulatory harmonisation, supporting investments to close the technology gap with global leaders, and fostering confidence through clear, transparent and safety-focused communication.

KPIs

63% of consumers intend to buy an electric vehicle within the next five years.

84% of electric vehicle owners say they are satisfied with their vehicle.

Norway, the Netherlands, China and Sweden top the 2026 eReadiness Index.

59% of Italians would consider purchasing an electric vehicle within the next five years.

eReadiness Global Study 2026

The latest outlook for the electric mobility sector

Studio eReadiness Mercato Italia 2026

Prospettive aggiornate del settore della mobilità elettrica.

Contact us

Francesco Papi

Francesco Papi

Partner | Automotive Leader, Strategy& Italy

Iacopo Neri

Iacopo Neri

Director, Strategy& Italy

Patrick Amberger

Patrick Amberger

Director, PwC, Strategy& Germany

Tel: +49 69 95855555

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