Survey Shows EV Reliability On The Rise With Room For Improvement Still Needed

In a comprehensive annual survey that delves deep into automotive technology and performance, Consumer Reports has unveiled nuanced insights into the reliability of electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

A Gradual Evolution of EV Technology

The survey, which examined data from around 330,000 vehicles spanning model years 2000 to 2024, reveals a promising trajectory for EV reliability. While EVs continue to lag behind traditional and hybrid vehicles, they are showing significant improvements in performance and dependability.

Key findings highlight that EVs now experience 42% more problems compared to gas-powered cars, which is a substantial improvement from the 79% differential reported in the previous year. This reduction suggests manufacturers are rapidly addressing early technological challenges and refining their electric platforms.

The Landscape of Vehicle Electrification

Steven Elek, who leads the auto data program at Consumer Reports, provides critical context for these reliability challenges. “EVs are often a test bed for new technology,” he explains, “which means they encounter more electrical accessory and in-car electronics issues.” This observation underscores a broader technological transformation, with automakers increasingly resembling tech companies focused on creating sophisticated “smartphones on wheels.”

Brand and Model Highlights

• The BMW i4 emerged as the most reliable EV in the survey
• Tesla ranked 17th in overall brand reliability
• Rivian found itself at the bottom of the brand reliability ranking
• Cadillac LYRIQ and Chevrolet Blazer EV were noted as having significant reliability concerns

Traditional hybrid vehicles continue to shine in reliability. Consumer Reports notes that non-plug-in hybrids are now considered as dependable as pure combustion cars. Some standout performers include:

• Toyota RAV4 Prime: Ranked as the most reliable vehicle in the entire survey
• Volvo XC60 PHEV: Recommended despite plug-in hybrid challenges
• Subaru and Lexus: Topped the overall brand reliability chart

Plug-in Hybrids: A Work in Progress

Notably, PHEVs showed the most dramatic improvement, reducing their problem rate from 146% to 70% more issues compared to traditional ICE vehicles. However, they remain the most problematic category of electrified vehicles.

Looking Forward: The Path to Reliability

Jake Fisher, senior director of Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center, offers sage advice: “While brand rankings can guide you to the showroom, it is critical to look at reliability for specific models before making a purchase decision.”

The survey’s findings suggest we are witnessing a critical transition period in automotive technology. As automakers continue to innovate and refine electric and hybrid technologies, buyers can expect increasingly reliable and sophisticated vehicles.

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

The message is clear: EV technology is improving, but prospective buyers should still conduct thorough research and consider individual EV model’s performance when making their purchasing decisions.

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