BOISE – According to new research by AAA, some Americans are reluctant to purchase an electric vehicle (EV) until charging stations are more widely available.

In AAA’s latest survey, 18% of U.S. adults say they are “very likely” or “likely” to buy a new or used EV for their next vehicle purchase, but for those who aren’t ready to do so, more than 50% note a lack of convenient charging stations and concerns about “range anxiety,” or the fear that their car will run out of charge while traveling longer distances.

“The early adopters have already purchased an electric vehicle, and until the infrastructure catches up, some prospective EV owners may remain in a bit of a holding pattern,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Because we support our members regardless of their mode of travel, we’re helping fill the gap by building EV fast charging stations at several of our locations. As charging options proliferate, EV sentiments could change very quickly.”

This year’s study marks a 5% decrease from the previous year among those who are likely or very likely to buy an EV soon. For the 63% who are currently “unlikely” or “very unlikely” to buy, perceived barriers to adoption include:

· Higher purchase price – 60%

  • High cost of battery repair or replacement – 57%
  • Lack of convenient places to charge – 54%
  • Unsuitable for long-distance travel – 54%
  • Concern about running out of charge while driving – 53%
  • Can’t install a charging station where I live – 30%
  • Other factors – 16%

“The process of resolving these concerns will take place over different time horizons,” Conde said. “While there is a higher up-front cost for an EV, it may also have fewer repair and maintenance issues in the long run. And many EV owners are discovering that with careful planning, they can readily identify charging stations that meet their travel needs. As more facilities come online, that will be easier and easier to figure out.”

U.S. Department of Energy data suggests that there were nearly 75,000 charging stations nationwide in 2023, an increase of 20,000 from the previous year.

The hybrid garage

31% of survey respondents say they are “likely” or “very likely” to buy a hybrid vehicle. For some, hybrids offer the best of both worlds – fuel economy, and range.

“Our data also makes the case for the ‘hybrid garage,’ where a family may use an electric vehicle for some activities and a gas or diesel-powered vehicle for others,” Conde said. “Just like your average toolbox has a wrench, a screwdriver and a hammer, a combination of vehicle solutions may make a lot of sense for some Idaho families. As people become familiar with how an EV performs in everyday life, they may get more comfortable using it in many different driving situations.”

Many electric vehicles are equipped with regenerative braking, which used the kinetic energy created when the car slows down to recharge the battery. Some EV owners configure their vehicles to accelerate and brake using a single pedal to maximize regenerative braking.

For those interested in learning more about electric vehicles, AAA resources include:

  • EV 101: An online resource for anyone interested in going electric, new OR used
  • The “CARBs” of Driving an EV: AAA research from the perspective of first-time EV drivers
  • Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource available to consumers that gives an annual breakdown of EV ownership costs
  • Mobile EV Charging Pilot:  In a growing number of cities, including Boise, AAA is piloting mobile EV charging for electric vehicles at the roadside.  Broader deployment is expected over time
  • AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for “newer” used EVs, the Car Guide, which rates the newest vehicle technology, contains links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2023
  • AAA TourBooks: Our digital travel books list hotels with EV charging stations, and the AAA Mobile app identifies chargers in the immediate vicinity

“One of the best ways to test the water on EVs is to take a test drive or rent one,” Conde said. “Our mission is to be there for our members, regardless of what’s powering their vehicle.”