A new study by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago reveals that high prices and limited charging infrastructure are major barriers to electric vehicle (EV) adoption. The study found that only 40 percent of U.S. adults are somewhat likely to consider an EV for their next vehicle, while 46 percent are unlikely to do so. The study follows further revisions to GM’s electric vehicle transition goals.
Currently, only a small percentage of Americans own or lease an electric vehicle, with the recent AP poll indicating that just 9 percent of respondents own or lease an all-electric vehicle. The poll highlights that younger adults show more inclination towards electric vehicles than older adults, but concerns about cost and range anxiety persist. Despite a recent decrease, the average price of a new electric vehicle remains higher than that of traditional, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Political divides are also evident in the study’s findings. Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, criticize Biden‘s electric vehicle push, while Democrats support it as part of broader climate goals. The study indicates geographic variations in opinions on electric vehicles as well, with rural residents particularly worried about the availability of charging stations.
The AP-NORC poll, which includes data from 6,265 adults collected between March 26th and April 10th, 2024, includes personal accounts like that of Jose Valdez from San Antonio, who finds electric vehicles cost-effective despite initial hesitations, and Daphne Boyd from Florida, who remains skeptical about their environmental and economic benefits.
As covered previously, General Motors (GM) recently adjusted its electric vehicle production forecast. Initially targeting the production of approximately 400,000 electric vehicles annually by the end of 2023, GM has now revised this figure to between 200,000 and 250,000 electric vehicle for 2024, citing slower-than-expected demand.
GM CEO Mary Barra has also reaffirmed that the transition to electric vehicles will span decades, stating, “We are committed to an all-electric future, but this transformation will happen over decades.” GM aims to offer a fully electric lineup for its light-duty vehicle portfolio by 2035.
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