ONLY half of Welsh motorists currently using petrol or diesel say they are likely to switch to an electric car in the next 10 years.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures reveal that many are still looking to stay with petrol or diesel, with 29 per cent unlikely to buy an electric car within the next 10 years.

While 11 per cent of Welsh car owners say they think they will buy an electric or hybrid car in the next two years, 43 per cent say they will put off buying electric for at least five years.

The main reason for not switching to greener motoring is the cost (66 per cent), followed by concerns about infrastructure (56 per cent) and lack of reliability 10 per cent.

The figures reflect the slow pace of moving to greener motoring across the UK.

Of those planning to buy a new car in the next year, the ONS stats show that 16 per cent intend to buy a hybrid, 8 per cent electric, 7 per cent diesel and 41 per cent aim to stick with petrol.

The latest government research comes amidst a backdrop of initiatives to encourage motorists to switch to hybrid or electric.

The government has also been increasing investment in charging points, including grants for motorists, as well as tax relief – in preparation for the ban on selling new petrol and diesel vehicles which comes into effect in 2030.

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