AAA Survey:  Decline In Consumer Interest In Electric Vehicles

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is sharing its latest research into consumer interest in electric vehicles.   AAA says its new Electric Vehicle survey indicates a decline in interest in purchasing EVs - with only 18% of U.S. adults saying they'd e “very likely” or “likely” to buy a new or used EV (not a hybrid) –  down from 23% last year.  Researchers say what's more is that 63% of respondents said they were “unlikely or very unlikely” to purchase an EV for their next car purchase. 

“Early adopters who wanted an EV already have one,” said Greg Brannon, director of automotive research at AAA. “The remaining group of people who have yet to adopt EVs consider the practicality, cost, convenience, and ownership experience, and for some, those are big enough hurdles to keep them from making the jump to fully electric.” 

Roadblocks to EV adoption continue to be cost, lack of convenient charging options, and range anxiety. Three in ten of survey respondents also cited the inability to install a charging station where they live. 

AAA says accessible, reliable, affordable, and convenient charging is key to growing EV interest and adoption. For people who live in an apartment or condo, at-home charging options are likely not possible. An EV might be a great choice for households with 2+ cars, but it might not fit the consumer who has to rely on their car for everyday use and travel. 

On the flip side, 

AAA says it believes there may be a near-term ceiling related to consumer adoption of battery electric vehicles due to their costs, charging accessibility, and range anxiety. However, hybrid options could bridge these gaps, broadening consumer interest in owning an EV. AAA’s survey also found that one in three U.S. adults (31%) say they would be “very likely” or “likely” to buy a hybrid. Access to a hybrid vehicle lessens the anxiety for consumers because it allows people to enjoy the benefits of electrification without feeling like they are disrupting their current lifestyle or travel plans (longer distance driving, less charging options, etc.).  

“Deciding to make the leap to full electric may feel overwhelming for many consumers, and a hybrid option may be the way to bridge this gap,” continued Brannon. “Consumer demand will ultimately dictate the future, and my prediction is that we will have a mix of EVs, hybrids, and internal combustion vehicles in dealerships and on the roads in the US for many decades ahead.”

To learn more about EVs, check out these AAA guides:

• EV 101: Online resource for anyone interested in going electric, whether shopping for new OR used.  
• The “CARBs” of Driving an EV: An acronym for 1st time EV Drivers that survey Point of View (POV) survey from 1st-time drivers on how to remember EV-based driving tips.  
• Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource available to consumers that gives a yearly breakdown of EV ownership costs  
• #AdultingwithAAA: Car Care Electric Vehicles – Low Maintenance – No Problem: AAA series for young adults providing helpful tips, advice, and life hacks on all things “Adulting.”  
• Mobile EV Charging Pilot: Available in select cities, this service is now part of our roadside assistance and will get EV owners back on the go if they run out of charge. That’s just one of the many benefits and services we offer our EV members.  
• EV Research: AAA in-house experts research consumer sentiment around EVs and their functionality.  
• AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for newer EVs, the online resources also contain links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2023. 

Photo Credit: Southworks/Shutterstock.com.