A recent study by HERE Technologies and SBD Automotive reveals significant gaps in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the United States (U.S.), with only four states meeting the optimal ratio of chargers to EV drivers.

The findings, released as part of the second annual Electric Vehicle (EV) Index, highlight both progress and persistent challenges in EV adoption and support. Nonetheless, it still shows the lack of EV charging infrastructure meeting standards that need to be resolved.

Only Delaware, Massachusetts, Nevada, Connecticut, and Washington D.C. have achieved the ideal ratio of one public charging point for every 9 to 10 full EVs. Delaware made a significant jump from 15th place in 2023 to 1st in 2024, largely due to its expansion of high-power DC fast charging stations.

Meanwhile, Minnesota, Nebraska, Idaho, and Alaska tied for last place in the rankings. Despite a 32% increase in the total number of public charging points in the U.S. since the 2023 index, regional disparities remain stark. For example, Michigan saw a notable drop in rankings due to declining average charging power and a worsening charger-to-EV ratio.

The study considered several factors, including charger proximity, charging speed, the number of pure EVs on the road, and the likelihood of finding an unoccupied charger. States like Delaware, Tennessee, Louisiana, Texas, and Indiana showed significant improvements, while others faced challenges.

Michigan, for instance, dropped nine points due to a worsening EV-to-charger ratio and slower average charging speeds. Major metropolitan areas like Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston are falling behind in EV charging infrastructure. In addition, charger reliability varies widely, with some states reporting up to 21.8% of chargers as non-operational.

In Europe, Denmark emerged as the top-ranked country, climbing from 6th place in 2023, while Norway, a long-time leader in EV adoption, slipped to 2nd place due to a slight reduction in public chargers. Europe outpaced the U.S. in charging infrastructure growth, with public charging power increasing by 115% since the 2023 index.

Christopher Handley, VP of Dynamic Spatial Data at HERE Technologies, emphasized the need for a robust and reliable public charging network stating, “To accelerate adoption, the industry must focus on creating a high-capacity and seamless charging experience. It is essential that users are delivered timely information on the status and availability of charging stations, down to the integration of a vehicle’s battery with its navigation system for more accurate on-route range predictions.”

Robert Fisher, Electrification and Sustainability Principal at SBD Automotive, highlighted the collaborative effort required from automakers, energy companies, governments, and even petroleum giants to develop the necessary charging infrastructure. He also stressed the ongoing importance of government incentives and consumer education in driving the transition to electric mobility.

With the findings from this study, it shows the need to further improve EV charging infrastructure in the U.S. automotive landscape. As the EV market moves beyond early adopters, addressing these charging infrastructure challenges will be crucial for widespread adoption and the future of electric mobility.

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