High Fuel Prices Spur Growing Interest in Electric Vehicles Among U.S. Drivers
A survey by Here Technologies and SBD Automotive found that 56% of American drivers say rising gasoline costs have increased their interest in electric cars, while concerns about charging availability and price remain.
A recent survey by Here Technologies and SBD Automotive indicates that more than half of U.S. drivers are now more interested in electric vehicles (EVs) because of high gasoline prices. The study, which combines consumer surveys with market analysis, reported that 56% of respondents said rising fuel costs have heightened their curiosity about EVs.
The poll also showed an improvement in perceptions of public charging infrastructure, with 47% of drivers believing there are enough public chargers, up from 28% the previous year. Among current EV owners, 85% said the existing charging network meets their needs, highlighting the importance of home charging for many users.
Price remains the primary barrier, as two in five drivers consider EVs too expensive. Automakers such as Ford are responding by targeting lower-cost electric pickups, with the company projecting sales of 100,000 units of its Fathom model in its first year.
The survey found that once owners purchase an EV, they are unlikely to revert to internal-combustion vehicles; 77% said they would likely replace their EV with another electric model. While new EV sales have declined following reductions in federal incentives and infrastructure programs, used-EV transactions have stayed relatively strong.
Analysts suggest that sustained high fuel prices could boost demand for both new and used electric vehicles, potentially offsetting recent market slowdowns.