Key takeaways:

  • Top barriers to electric vehicle adoption are range (49%) and battery safety/longevity (47%).
  • Price, maintenance, and public charging each register at 45%.
  • Home charging access is an issue for 35%.

While the appeal of electric vehicles has grown in the U.S. auto market over the years, many prospective buyers still say they are unlikely to choose one for their next car. YouGov Automotive CategoryView data helps identify the specific issues that shape that hesitation.

Range without a charge (49%) is the most frequently selected reason for not considering an EV, followed by battery safety and longevity (47%). Several practical and cost-related factors appear close behind: vehicle purchase price (45%), repair/maintenance cost (45%), and the number and proximity of charging stations (45%).

In 2024, the top barriers were vehicle purchase price (54%), battery safety and longevity (51%) and the range drivers can travel without a charge (51%). 

Beyond the leading cluster of concerns, 35% say they have no capability/space to charge at home. About three in ten cite longevity of the vehicle (32%) and stalling during cold weather (29%). Fewer than one in five select limited models (17%), higher insurance costs (16%), or vehicle performance (16%), and 10% say they do not have any concerns about electric vehicles.

Methodology: YouGov CategoryView delivers sector-level intelligence by combining brand tracking with in-depth consumer insights. Data is collected daily from YouGov’s proprietary online panel and delivered via monthly dashboards, tailored to the unique needs of each industry. CategoryView is available across multiple verticals including Automotive, Financial Services, Quick Service Restaurants, and Beer & Hard Seltzers. It provides a representative view of market dynamics, brand performance, and consumer behaviors. Insights are weighted to nationally representative demographics within each market.

Images: Getty Images

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