Survey: Just 16% of Americans likely to purchase electric vehicle

A Polestar electric car prepares to park at an EV charging station in California. A lack of available charging stations was cited by survey respondents as a reason they won’t buy electric vehicles. JUSTIN SULLIVAN/GETTY IMAGES FILE

Just 16% of Americans are either “likely” or “very likely” to purchase an electric vehicle, according to the results of a new survey by AAA.

The figure represents the lowest recorded percentage of interest in electric vehicles since 2019, AAA wrote in a news release.

It also acknowledged the amount of those who reported they would be “unlikely” or “very unlikely” to buy an electric vehicle increased from 51% in 2022 to 63%.

“Since we began tracking interest in fully electric vehicles, we’ve seen some variability,” AAA Director of Automotive Engineering Greg Brannon said. “While the automotive industry is committed to long-term electrification and providing a diverse range of models, underlying consumer hesitation remains.”

Survey respondents cited the high cost of battery repairs and vehicle purchase price as the main barriers to making the jump to electric. Electric vehicles, according to the survey that was released this past week, also appeared to respondents as unsuitable for long-distance travel.

Respondents also pointed to a lack of available charging stations, difficulty installing a home charger and the potential for government tax credits and rebates to be reduced or eliminated.

In fact, the House budget and tax bill known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” proposes ending a $7,500 tax credit for buyers of electric vehicles. The EV tax credits has caused a major split between President Donald Trump and former Department of Government Efficiency head Elon Musk.

Though no longer working for the Trump administration, Musk criticized the bill this past week calling it a “disgusting abomination.” The EV tax credit cuts could affect Musk’s electric vehicle company Tesla. The bill now rests with the Senate.

AAA acknowledged interest in electric vehicles might also be waning because of decreased gas prices. Gas prices in 2022 reached $5 per gallon, making electric vehicles appear cost effective. The average price of gas per gallon now ranges from $3 to $3.50 nationwide.

“Despite advancements in the EV industry and the growing availability of models, public perception regarding the future of EVs remains uncertain,” AAA wrote. “Many consumers may find hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles more appealing.”

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