Over half of UK millennials believe an unattractive home electric vehicle charger could reduce their property value by thousands of pounds, according to new research from premium charge point manufacturer Andersen. The findings reveal that design aesthetics have become a critical consideration as the nation transitions to electric mobility and home charging infrastructure.
Highlights
- 56% of 25-34-year-olds worry an “ugly” home charger could devalue their property
- 70% of millennial and Gen Z drivers rate charger aesthetics as important, versus 39% of those 65+
- 79% of younger millennials more likely to purchase properties with pre-installed EV chargers
- Industry shift toward design-led charging solutions with customizable finishes and hidden cable technology
Younger Generations Prioritize Charger Design
The survey of 1,010 UK motorists found that 70% of millennial and Gen Z drivers rated the appearance of their home EV charger as important, compared to just 39% of those aged 65 and over. Across all age groups, 50% of motorists agreed that aesthetics matter when installing a charger at home, signaling a generational shift in attitudes toward home charging design.
The research reveals that 56% of 25-34-year-olds specifically fear an unattractive charger could knock thousands off their home’s value. This concern underscores how charge point design has evolved from a purely functional consideration to a property value factor for younger homeowners.
Chargers Becoming Property Selling Features
Beyond appearance concerns, the study found that 79% of 25-34-year-olds would be more likely to buy a property that already has a home EV charger installed. This suggests that well-designed charge points are becoming a desirable feature for modern homes, potentially adding value rather than detracting from it.
However, utilitarian “black box” designs could have the opposite effect, potentially reducing perceived property value among younger buyers who prioritize aesthetics alongside functionality.
Industry Response to Design Demands
“As EV adoption accelerates, it’s clear that the next generation of homeowners care deeply about design and kerb appeal,” said David Martell, CEO of Andersen. “Millennial and Gen Z motorists don’t just want a charger that performs well—they want one that enhances the appearance and value of their home. That’s why the industry must raise its game, focusing on aesthetics as much as technology.”
To meet this growing demand, manufacturers are developing design-led chargers with customizable features. Andersen’s UK-built chargers are available in over 200 color and finish combinations, including:
- Metal fascias for contemporary properties
- Wooden finishes for traditional homes
- Hidden cable technology for clutter-free installations
- Socketed and tethered options for different user preferences
Key Research Findings
The OnePoll survey conducted on behalf of Andersen EV revealed several critical insights:
- 70% of millennial and Gen Z motorists (aged 25-34) say charger appearance is important
- 50% of all motorists agree looks matter for home charge points
- 56% of 25-34-year-olds fear an “ugly” charger could devalue their home
- Only 15% disagreed that charge point appearance matters
- 82% of 18-24-year-olds say an existing charger would influence a home purchase decision
Market Implications
The research highlights a fundamental shift in the EV charging market, where design-conscious younger homeowners are driving demand for aesthetically pleasing charging solutions. As electric vehicle adoption accelerates and more properties incorporate home charging infrastructure, manufacturers face pressure to deliver products that blend technical performance with architectural compatibility.
This trend may influence future residential charging standards and building regulations, as well as property valuation methodologies that account for both the presence and design quality of EV charging infrastructure.
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