A recent AP-NORC poll highlights that many Americans are still hesitant about purchasing electric vehicles (EVs), primarily due to high costs and insufficient charging infrastructure. About 40% of U.S. adults express some likelihood of buying an EV next, while 46% are unlikely to do so. Only a small percentage currently own or lease hybrid or electric cars.
The Biden administration’s push to increase EV adoption faces significant resistance, with only 21% of adults being very or extremely likely to consider an EV. Cost concerns and range anxiety are major deterrents, with nearly 60% citing high prices and about half worrying about the driving range and charging times. Younger adults are more open to EVs than older adults, but the overall adoption is slow.
The poll underscores the challenge in meeting the Environmental Protection Agency’s target of 56% new vehicle sales being electric by 2032. While some individuals, like Jose Valdez from San Antonio, find value in EVs, others, especially in rural areas, cite lack of charging infrastructure and environmental concerns related to battery production as significant barriers.