Another New AAA Study shows American Drivers are More Interested in Hybrids than EVs

PORTLAND, Ore., – AAA has two new studies on electric vehicles and hybrids. The first study shows that cold and hot weather can reduce the efficiency and range of electric vehicles and hybrids and increase operating costs of these vehicles. The second study shows that American drivers are more interested in hybrid vehicles than in fully electric models.

New AAA Study Reveals Temperature Impacts on Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

AAA Researchers tested six electric and hybrid vehicles at cold, moderate, and hot temperatures to examine how electrified powertrains perform under varying conditions. 

Building on their 2019 study, the AAA automotive engineering team, in partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, evaluated the powertrains of three EVs and three hybrids.

Testing was conducted on a chassis dynamometer — a device like a treadmill for cars — with the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) set at 72 degrees in the vehicles and the temperatures in the laboratory test cell at 20°F, 75°F, and 95°F. The cost portion of the research leveraged the AAA Fuel Price Data to determine national average fuel and electricity prices as of March 27, 2026.

The three hybrids tested were the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD, 2025 Toyota Prius Hybrid FWD Nightshade, and 2025 Hyundai Tucson Blue Hybrid AWD. The three EVs tested were the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD, 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD and 2025 Tesla Model Y RWD.

“This study is meant to help consumers better understand how varying temperatures can affect vehicle performance and help set realistic expectations for driving and ownership in different climates,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “Drivers can be caught by surprise when the range of their vehicles is not what drivers expect. Knowing that the range of electrified vehicles will likely be less in hot or cold weather can help drivers plan accordingly.”

The study also finds that EVs and hybrids can cost more to operate in more extreme temperatures. EVs and hybrids with a decreased range in cold or hot temperatures will require more frequent charging or fill-ups. 

Find more information in the fact sheet and full report.  

Key Findings:

Impact of hot temperatures (95°F):  

  • Hybrid vehicles experience a 12.0% decrease in fuel efficiency (miles per gallon, MPG). 
  • EVs show a 10.4% reduction in efficiency (MPGe, miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent) and an 8.5% loss of driving range compared to moderate temperature (75°F)conditions. 

Impact of cold temperatures (20°F):  

  • Hybrids lose 22.8% in fuel economy. 
  • EVs demonstrate a 35.6% drop in MPGe and a 39.0% decrease in calculated driving range.  

Impacts of cold temperatures (20°F) on operating costs:  

  • Hybrids showed an increase in fuel cost of $28.44 per 1,000 miles. 
  • EVs experienced an increase in operating costs of $32.11 per 1,000 miles when charged at home electricity rates and $76.93 per 1,000 miles when using public charging.  

Impacts of hot temperatures (95°F) on operating costs:  

  • Hybrid operating costs increased by $13.02 per 1,000 mi.
  • For EVs using home charging, operating costs rose by $6.78 per 1,000 mi, while public charging costs climbed $16.25 per 1,000 mi.  

Powertrain Cost Comparison: 

  • Cold operation (20°F) showed the largest cost gap: EVs cost $36.19 less per 1,000 miles at home electricity rates, but $86.26 more using public chargers than hybrids. 
  • At high temperatures (95°F), EVs were $46.11 cheaper per 1,000 miles at home electricity rates, but $41.00 more expensive at public charging rates compared to hybrids. 

“Like our previous study in 2019, our new study shows that EVs are efficient in moderate temperatures but can lose significant range in cold and hot conditions. We’re a bit surprised by the 23% reduction in fuel economy for hybrids in cold temperatures. We hope this information helps drivers know how hot and cold temperatures can impact their driving range and vehicle operating costs,” says Dodds.

Hybrid electric vehicle EV temperature testing 5-2026

A 2025 Toyota Prius Hybrid (above) and 2025 Tesla Model Y (below) were two of the test vehicles.

Hybrid electric vehicle EV temperature testing 5-2026

AAA Tips for Drivers of EVs and Hybrids

  • Be aware of weather conditions: Cold conditions increase energy demand for both powertrains, but EVs are more affected due to battery performance limitations and the need for cabin heating. When it’s cold or hot outside, drivers should expect reduced range and more frequent charging or fill-ups.  
  • Budget for seasonal cost changes: Winter raises energy use across all powertrains. EV cost increases are most pronounced when relying on higher-priced public charging; hybrids will consume more fuel due to heating demands.  
  • Manage efficiency in hot weather: At high temperatures, air conditioning and thermal management (controlling and optimization of heat flow within a vehicle to keep things like the battery, motor and electronics at optimal temps) can reduce efficiency for both EVs and hybrids; impacts are often smaller than in cold weather.  
  • Preconditioning and targeted heating and cooling: Warm or cool your EV while it’s still plugged in to avoid using battery power. Use targeted comfort features, such as heated steering wheels and heated and cooled seats, instead of blasting the air conditioning or heat. If possible, park in a garage to help prevent the cabin from getting extremely hot or cold.
  • Modify your driving style: Use Eco Mode, maximize regenerative braking, accelerate and slow down gradually, and avoid sustained high speeds in extreme temperatures. Driving at lower speeds reduces energy consumption. 
  • Vehicle maintenance and load: Keep tires properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance. Get all the extra stuff out of your vehicle including roof racks and cargo boxes.
  • Be strategic about charging: EV operating costs depend heavily on electricity rates and where charging occurs. Home charging can help manage seasonal cost swings compared to frequent public charging, especially in cold weather.
  • Info at your fingertips: The AAA Your Driving Costs calculator estimates ownership and operating costs, factoring in local climate, driving habits, and EV public charging prices  from the AAA Gas Price Data.  

AAA EV and Hybrid Consumer Survey

AAA has also done its annual survey on consumers’ views of EVs and hybrids.

This year’s study shows that American drivers continue to show greater interest in hybrid vehicles than in fully electric models.

AAA Consumer Sentiment Hybrids and Electric Vehicles EVs 5-2026

More than a third (35%) of U.S. adults say they are “very likely” or “likely” to purchase a hybrid for their next vehicle, whether new or used. This is up from 31% in 2024. Those who favor hybrids most often point to reduced concerns about driving range and access to charging compared to EVs. Hybrids continue to appeal to drivers seeking greater convenience and flexibility.

AAA Consumer Sentiment Hybrids and Electric Vehicles EVs 5-2026

This year’s AAA study shows that 18% of U.S. adults say they are likely to purchase a fully electric vehicle for their next vehicle. This is up slightly from 2025, the same as in 2024, but down from 2022 and 2023.

AAA Consumer Sentiment Hybrids and Electric Vehicles EVs 5-2026

Those who are interested in buying an EV say saving on gasoline (78%), environmental concerns (55%), and the lower maintenance costs associated with electric vehicles (47%) are the primary drivers. Other reasons consumers choose EVs include enjoying the driving performance of EVs (33%), taking advantage of available incentives and rebates (30%), and cutting-edge technology (24%).

AAA Consumer Sentiment Hybrids and Electric Vehicles EVs 5-2026

Cost and range anxiety remain the most significant barriers to EV adoption. The high cost of battery repair or replacement (56%), higher purchase price of EVs (54%), the perception that EVs aren’t suitable for long distance travel (51%), range anxiety – running out of charge while driving (51%), and lack of convenient places to charge (45%) are the main reasons why consumers say they’re unlikely to purchase an EV.

AAA Consumer Sentiment Hybrids and Electric Vehicles EVs 5-2026

Oregon continues to be a leader in EV adoption. As of January 2026, Oregon had more than 136,000 registered EVs and plug-in hybrids. Oregon is consistently ranked as one of the top five U.S. sites for EV adoption per capita.

“Drivers’ attitudes towards EVs can vary greatly depending on location. Drivers in states like Oregon where EVs are popular often view EVs favorably,” says Dodds. “Gas prices can also play a role in the popularity of EVs. When gas prices climb, as they’ve been doing this spring, we tend to see more interest in EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids.”

AAA Oregon/Idaho has expanded its services for drivers of EVs, including the installation of DC Fast Charging at many of its Service Centers in Oregon and Idaho. DC fast charging is currently available at the Bend, Boise, Clackamas, Eugene, Lake Oswego, Medford Fleet, Salem and Springfield/Gateway AAA Service Centers. DC fast charging will be available soon at the Beaverton AAA Service Center. Level 2 charging is also available at the Beaverton, Bend, Boise, Clackamas, Eugene, Lake Oswego, Medford, Portland, and Salem AAA Service Centers. Find more information at AAA.com/charge.

EV charging stations at AAA Service Centers are accessible to all electric vehicle drivers through the ChargePoint app. AAA members enjoy half price charging fees for Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers at any of our locations.

AAA has many other resources for those who want to learn more about EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids:

  • Reviews of electric vehicles: AAA’s Marie Dodds reviews new EVs, plug-in hybrids and hybrids.
  • AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for newer vehicles, find AAA’s testing and ranking of cars and light trucks.
  • AAA Mobile app: find the closest EV charging stations including the level of charge available. You can sort stations by distance from your route, address, and more. Available at the App Store or Google Play.
  • Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource available to consumers that gives a yearly breakdown of EV ownership costs  

Media assets:

AAA b-roll video of an EV using DC fast charging at the AAA Clackamas Service Center:

Survey Methodology  

The survey was conducted March 19-23, 2026, using a probability-based panel designed to be representative of the U.S. household population overall. The panel provides sample coverage of approximately 97% of the U.S. household population. Most surveys were completed online; consumers without Internet access were surveyed over the phone. 

A total of 1,088 interviews were completed among U.S. adults, 18 years of age or older. The margin of error for the study overall is +/- 4% at the 95% confidence level. Smaller subgroups have larger error margins. 

About AAA   

Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com. 

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Fuel prices are updated daily at AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge at AAA Fuel Prices. For more info go www.AAA.com.  AAA Oregon/Idaho provides more than 910,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services, and is an affiliate of AAA National, serving more than 65 million members in North America.