57% Of Drivers Worldwide Plan To Own An EV Within The Next 10 Years

A new comprehensive survey reveals a significant shift in global automotive preferences, with 57% of drivers worldwide expecting to own an electric vehicle (EV) within the next 10 years.

The study, which surveyed 6,000 car drivers across major automotive markets, spotlights varying levels of EV enthusiasm across different regions and unveils distinct customer segments shaping the future of electric mobility.

Regional Variations in EV Adoption

According to Accenture, China leads the global push toward EVs, with 65% of drivers believing EVs represent the future of automotive transportation. The United States (U.S.) follows closely behind, with 54% of American drivers anticipating EV ownership within the next decade, and only 11% ruling out ever purchasing an EV.

European markets show more hesitancy, particularly in Germany, where only 37% of drivers express strong support forEVs. Whereas France showed similar skepticism with just 36% fully embracing an electric future.

As a result, these survey results align with recent market trends, as the U.S.  has emerged as the world’s second-largest EV market in the third quarter, trailing only China, while some European markets experience slower growth.

Changing Consumer Priorities

The survey reveals a significant shift in EV buyer priorities, marking the end of the early adopter phase. As of now, potential EV buyers prioritize three key factors when considering a purchase. Reliability stands out as the top priority, with 83% of respondents citing it as a crucial consideration.

Safety follows closely behind, with 82% of potential buyers ranking it as an essential factor. Additionally, value for money is equally important, also with 82% of respondents highlighting it as a priority when choosing an EV. This shift in priorities indicates that the EV market is maturing, with more consumers now focusing on practical and long-term aspects of vehicle ownership.

“These priorities mirror traditional car-buying criteria, suggesting EVs are entering the mainstream market,” the survey indicates. Environmental sustainability, once a primary driver for early adopters, has become less central to purchasing decisions.

Key Consumer Segments

Moreover, the survey identified five distinct customer segments or “mindsonas” in the EV market. Strategists, comprising 20% of respondents, are affluent buyers who are particularly drawn to high-end EV models. Individualists, accounting for 25%, tend to be younger, tech-savvy drivers who prioritize innovation and modern features in their vehicles. Carers, making up 21%, are environmentally conscious and practical-minded consumers who are motivated by sustainability and the long-term benefits of EV ownership.

Furthermore, Conservatives, representing 17% of the market, are reliability-focused and somewhat hesitant about making the switch to electric, often due to concerns about new technology. Finally, Frugals, also 17%, are price-sensitive buyers who are looking for the most cost-effective EV options available.

Infrastructure and Range Concerns

In addition to these customer segments, the survey revealed ongoing concerns related to EV infrastructure and capabilities. A significant 70% of drivers globally expect widespread charging availability at parking locations, signaling the need for expanded charging networks to support EV adoption. Furthermore, 81% of respondents consider battery capacity and driving range to be crucial factors in their purchase decision, indicating that these practical aspects remain central to the EV buying process.

Future Outlook of EV Market’s Growth

With 43% of current non-EV drivers considering an EV for their next purchase, and 23% planning to buy one within five years, the automotive industry faces a clear mandate to expand its electric offerings. Success in the coming years will likely depend on manufacturers’ ability to address the priorities of mainstream customers, particularly the Conservative and Frugal segments that have thus far remained on the sidelines of the EV revolution.

The survey suggests that the EV market’s continued growth will depend on automakers’ ability to offer vehicles that meet traditional car-buying criteria while addressing specific concerns about charging infrastructure and range capability.

Read More: Survey Finds Half Of U.S. Shoppers Are Eager To Test-Drive EVs

As the EV industry continues to accelerate further in the market, with options ranging from luxury $200,000 vehicles to sub-$30,000 compact models offering 300-mile ranges, the path to mainstream adoption appears increasingly clear.

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