Singapore car buyers are increasingly opting for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over electric vehicles (EVs), according to the EY 2025 Mobility Consumer Index. The survey, which included around 300 Singaporean respondents, revealed that 32% now plan to purchase ICE vehicles, up from 26% in 2024. This mirrors a global trend, with 50% of car buyers worldwide showing a preference for ICE vehicles.
The shift away from EVs is attributed to several factors, including concerns over charging infrastructure and the high cost of battery replacements. In Singapore, 56% of respondents cited issues with public charger quality and interoperability, whilst 42% pointed to expensive battery replacements as significant deterrents. Additionally, 40% highlighted the lack of charging infrastructure as a barrier.
Sriram Changali, EY-Parthenon Asean and Singapore Industrials Leader, noted, “The cooling of EV enthusiasm suggests that consumers are taking a more cautious, practical view of ownership, weighing real-world considerations such as charging reliability and interoperability, and total cost of ownership.”
Despite the shift, EVs remain the preferred choice overall. However, the high cost of connected services and limited comfort with advanced autonomous capabilities continue to pose challenges. Only a third of Singapore respondents feel comfortable with Level 3 or above autonomous features, citing accident risk and technology failure as top concerns.
Dealerships continue to play a crucial role in the car-buying process, with 49% of Singaporeans preferring in-person purchases. Changali emphasised the importance of dealerships in guiding consumers through the transition to EVs, stating, “By providing clear information and hands-on experience, they can help consumers build confidence in new technologies.”
