According to a new AAA survey, 20 percent – or 50 million Americans –will likely choose an electric model for their next vehicle purchase. That number is up from 15 percent in 2017. Some of the reasons cited for this purchasing preference include lower costs of ownership, improving driving ranges, and new technology focused on safety.
“Electric vehicles have become more affordable, attractive, and they include innovative technology,” said Nick Jarmusz, director of public affairs for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Many consumers view electric vehicles as the cars of the future.”
Perhaps the leading factor driving the rise of electric vehicles is that “range anxiety” is beginning to ease. According to AAA, among those unsure or unwilling to choose an electric vehicle for their next car, 63 percent (down nine percent from 2017) cited “not enough places to charge." Additionally, 58 percent (down 15 percent from 2017), expressed concern over “running out of charge while driving.” There is generally less range anxiety among millennials (48 percent) than for Generation X or Baby Boomers (64 percent and 66 percent, respectively).
While range is important to most (87 percent) electric and hybrid vehicle shoppers, it is not the only consideration. Reliability is king with 92 percent of those likely to buy an EV or hybrid, stating it's important when evaluating which car to buy.
These car shoppers are also prioritizing crash ratings (77 percent), cost (71 percent), acceleration and handling (69 percent), and advanced safety technology such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance (60 percent). Fewer drivers are concerned with style, color, design (34 percent), or brand (33 percent).
While it appears that Americans may be more open to buying an electric vehicle, any widespread adoption hinges on overcoming some of the perceptions on charging infrastructure, both in terms of their availability as well as recharging times. In 2018, the number of charging stations in the U.S. grew to more than 16,000. In terms of charging times, 68 percent of those responding to the survey felt that a roadside charging time of no more than 30 minutes is reasonable.
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