EV Buyers Hesitate as Costs and Charging Woes Persist in 2025

A recent study from American Muscle highlights why electric vehicle (EV) adoption is stalling despite growing interest. High upfront costs and sparse charging infrastructure are pushing buyers away, even as automakers like BMW and Kia roll out models like the 2026 iX and EV9 GT. Economic pressures and dealership experiences further complicate the shift to EVs, raising questions about the industry’s path forward.

Cost Barriers Drive Buyer Reluctance

The study reveals that 22% of potential EV buyers are deterred by high purchase prices, with many citing the upfront cost as a dealbreaker. For context, the average price of a new EV in 2025 hovers around $56,000, significantly above traditional gas-powered cars. Used EVs, often seen as a budget-friendly alternative, aren’t solving the problem either—15% of used car buyers walk away due to unexpectedly high pricing, and 60% abandon deals when prior vehicle damage isn’t disclosed.

Additionally, 14% of respondents worry about battery replacement costs, which can range from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the model. These financial concerns are compounded by unfavorable financing options, cited by 40% of new car buyers as a reason to avoid purchases altogether.

Charging Infrastructure Lags Behind Demand

A lack of charging stations remains a critical hurdle, with 20% of prospective EV buyers citing insufficient infrastructure as their primary concern. The study notes that 23% of respondents would switch to EVs if charging were as convenient as refueling at a gas station, a sentiment echoed by 58% who say it might sway them. Currently, the U.S. has approximately 61,000 public charging stations, but their uneven distribution—concentrated in urban areas—leaves rural drivers underserved.

Recent policy shifts exacerbate the issue. The Trump administration’s decision to halt federal funding for EV charging expansion has stalled plans to add thousands of stations nationwide. Without significant investment, the charging network’s growth may not keep pace with projected EV sales, which could further erode consumer confidence.

Range Anxiety and Performance Concerns

Battery range limitations deter 16% of buyers, with many EVs offering 200–300 miles per charge, compared to 400–500 miles for some gas vehicles. Models like the 2026 Kia EV9 GT boast improved ranges, but consumer skepticism persists. Meanwhile, 49% of buyers avoid vehicles with poor driving performance, and 26% reject models with weak acceleration, signaling that EVs must match or exceed the driving dynamics of traditional cars to win over skeptics.

Dealership experiences also play a role. About 17% of buyers who considered an EV at the dealership ultimately chose another vehicle, often due to missing features (31%) or long wait times (13%). This suggests automakers and dealers need to streamline inventory and enhance in-person experiences.

Shifting Brand Loyalties

Brand loyalty is waning, with 51% of Tesla owners and 40% of Hyundai drivers willing to switch based on a brand’s reputation. This trend, coupled with 31% of buyers changing brands at the dealership over missing features, underscores the need for automakers to deliver compelling, well-equipped EVs. For instance, 31% of buyers flagged outdated infotainment systems as a dealbreaker, a challenge for brands like Mazda.

Future Outlook for EVs

Emerging technologies, such as solid-state batteries promising ranges over 400 miles and faster charging, could address some concerns. However, infrastructure remains the biggest obstacle, and automakers have limited control over national policy. If anti-EV policies persist, the industry may struggle to meet demand from the 58% of buyers open to EVs with better charging access. For now, EV enthusiasts and manufacturers alike face a complex road ahead, balancing cost, convenience, and performance to drive adoption.