A new consumer survey from AAA has found that nearly 25 percent of Americans would be likely to buy an electric vehicle as their next car, and they’re citing gas prices as the reason why.
The survey, conducted in February of this year, asked more than 1,000 Americans over the age of 18 about their views on electric vehicles. The organization said that as gas prices continue to stay high, it anticipated that more Americans would convert to electric vehicles. According to the survey, 77 percent of those who said their next car would be electric cited saving on fuel costs as a top reason for their interest.
“The increase in gas prices over the last six months has pushed consumers to consider going electric, especially for younger generations,” said Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations. “They are looking for ways to save, and automakers continue to incorporate cool styling and the latest cutting-edge technology into electric vehicles, which appeal to this group.”
Among the reasons for hesitation amongst buyers were higher prices (60 percent), not enough charging stations (60 percent), running out of charge while driving (58 percent), the high cost of battery repair or replacement (55 percent) and the lack of ability to install a charging station where they live (31 percent).
The study found that drivers have a reasonably accurate understanding of electric vehicles’ capabilities when it comes to range. Six in 10 said electric vehicles can travel between 100 and 350 miles before running out of charge – which is in alignment with today’s EV capabilities.
“The deeper issue with range anxiety is that it’s going to take more than just improving how far an electric vehicle can go to convince people to make the switch,” continued Brannon.
However, the organization said, just improving electric vehicles’ range won’t be enough to assuage consumer anxiety and encourage them to buy. Moreover, the organization said, more widespread adoption will rely on consumer education, as well as the influence of others around consumers buying more electric vehicles.