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

As interest in electric vehicles (EVs) has been exponentially growing, a new survey reveals that 50% of Americans would be interested in test-driving an EV during their next dealership visit. The findings indicate that while EV sales growth may have slowed, consumer curiosity about EVs remains substantial.

According to Consumer Reports, the survey spotlights a significant opportunity for dealerships, though current experiences suggest room for improvement in how EVs are presented to potential buyers. Among recent dealership visitors who inquired about hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or full EVs, only 28% reported being “very satisfied” with the information they received. A larger portion, 46%, were “somewhat satisfied,” while 20% expressed dissatisfaction with their experience.

Key Concerns of Potential EV Buyers

“Consumer interest in cleaner vehicle types continues to be strong, but many consumers still have a lot of questions,” explains Chris Harto, senior policy analyst for transportation and energy at Consumer Reports. “They need help navigating the rapid technological change occurring in the car market.”

In detail, the survey pinpointed several crucial areas of concern among potential EV buyers. Leading these priorities is battery longevity, with 53% of clean-vehicle shoppers seeking more information on how long EV batteries will last. Close behind, 52% of respondents are interested in understanding the total cost of ownership, particularly factoring in fuel savings and maintenance costs, which can significantly impact the financial appeal of an EV.

Real-world range performance also emerged as a top consideration, with 47% of potential buyers wanting to know how far EVs can go on a full charge under various conditions. Lastly, 45% of respondents emphasized the importance of available tax credits and rebates, which can make a significant difference in the initial affordability of an EV.

Influence of Test Drives on EV Adoption

Notably, Consumer Reports’ previous research suggests that direct experience with EVs through test drives can significantly influence purchasing decisions. The organization has found that increased hands-on experience with EVs correlates positively with buyer interest, and other studies indicate that EV owners rarely switch back to conventional gas-powered vehicles.

Challenges in Dealer Engagement

However, the survey also reveals a notable challenge: dealer engagement. Some dealerships have shown reluctance in promoting EVs, sometimes providing inadequate or incorrect information to potential buyers. This disconnect between consumer interest and dealer readiness could be a crucial factor in converting EV curiosity into sales.

“Dealers are on the front lines of this transition to cleaner vehicles, and they can play an important role in helping consumers understand these new technologies,” Harto noted. “Dealers that lean into this new role can gain a competitive advantage as fuel-efficient hybrid and zero-emission electric vehicle sales continue to grow.”

A Path Forward for EV Sales Growth

The survey results suggest that while concerns about charging infrastructure, battery performance, and initial purchase price remain significant factors in the United States (U.S.) EV market, American consumers are more open to considering EVs than recent market slowdown headlines might suggest. 

With 13% of respondents “unsure” about test driving an EV and 37% not interested, there remains a substantial opportunity for growth in the EV market, particularly if dealerships can better address consumer questions and concerns.

Read More: U.S. EV Sales Exceed Europe For The First Time In Q3 2024

As dealers improve their engagement strategies and address consumer concerns about range, battery life, and cost, they could unlock further growth and help drive broader adoption of EVs across the nation.

Want to learn more about EV? Thinking of buying an EV? Head over to EV.com and discover more.