High Prices and Lack of Charging Stations Remain Major Obstacles

A new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago reveals that many Americans are still reluctant to purchase electric vehicles (EVs), despite President Joe Biden’s efforts to dramatically increase EV sales. The poll found that 46% of U.S. adults are not too likely or not at all likely to buy an EV for their next car purchase, while only 40% say they would be at least somewhat likely to do so.

The poll results highlight the challenges facing Biden’s plan to boost EV adoption, which is a key part of his climate agenda. The Environmental Protection Agency recently issued a new rule requiring about 56% of all new vehicle sales to be electric by 2032, along with at least 13% plug-in hybrids or other partially electric cars.

However, the poll shows that high prices and a lack of easily accessible charging stations remain significant barriers for many Americans. Nearly 6 in 10 adults cite cost as a major reason why they would not purchase an EV, while about half express concerns about the driving range and the time it takes to charge an EV.

Younger people are more open to the idea of buying an EV, with more than half of those under 45 saying they are at least somewhat likely to consider an EV purchase. In contrast, only 32% of those over 45 are somewhat likely to buy an EV.

Despite these challenges, some Americans are embracing EVs. Jose Valdez, a 45-year-old Republican from San Antonio, owns three EVs and believes that once people experience driving an EV, they will have a different mindset about the technology.

EVXL’s Take

The poll results underscore the need for continued efforts to make EVs more affordable and accessible to a wider range of Americans. While the Biden administration’s push for increased EV adoption is commendable, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the concerns and hesitations of many consumers.

Investing in the expansion of charging infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, could help alleviate range anxiety and make EVs a more practical choice for more people. Additionally, continued advancements in battery technology and manufacturing processes could help drive down the cost of EVs over time, making them more competitive with traditional gas-powered vehicles.

As the EV market continues to evolve and mature, it will be important for policymakers, automakers, and other stakeholders to work together to address these challenges and create an environment that encourages widespread adoption of this clean, efficient technology.