Despite the potential benefits of electric cars, a recent poll shows that most Americans remain hesitant to make this leap in auto technology. High prices and limited access to charging stations are major roadblocks for many on their journey towards an electrified ride. While 4 out 10 people indicated they may be open to switching soon, it appears America still has some automotive soul-searching left before completely saying goodbye to gasoline engines once and for all.

According to a recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago, Americans may not be ready to embrace President Biden’s plans to dramatically increase electric vehicle sales. Surprisingly few – only 8% – have an EV in their household currently with another 8% reporting having a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Despite the availability of significant tax credits, convincing drivers to switch from traditional gas-powered cars and trucks to eco-friendly electric vehicles could be a challenging road ahead.

In an effort to combat climate change and reduce pollution, auto companies are investing billions of dollars in factories for electric vehicle production. The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed that two-thirds of all new car sales must be EVs by 2032; President Joe Biden is pushing even further: aiming for up to half the market share being held by electric vehicles within the next nine years.

Although many Americans are aware of the environmental benefits associated with electric vehicles, only a small fraction feel inclined to buy one for their next car. A poll conducted recently shows that 19% consider it “very or extremely” likely they’ll switch to an EV and 22% somewhat likely – leaving nearly half at 47%, who find this option not very attractive.

Six in 10 said the high cost is a major reason they wouldn’t and about a quarter cited it as a minor reason. Only 16% said the high cost would not be a factor in rejecting the EV.

The cost of electric vehicles is more often than not more expensive than what is accessible to many American households. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average price of a new EV is more than $58,000, while the average vehicle sold in the U.S. costs just under $46,000. As part of the Inflation Reduction Act tax credits and other incentives specifically designed to make EVs more affordable offer hope of making the pricing more in line with typical gasoline powered vehicles.

New rules proposed by the U.S. Treasury Department, however, could result in fewer electric vehicles qualifying for a full $7,500 federal tax credit later.

Many vehicles will only be eligible for half of the full credit of just $3,750. Consequently, if “going green” won’t save consumers money in the long run then it may not be an attractive option.

Despite the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, nearly three out of four people cite a lack of charging station infrastructure as an impediment to making the switch. Additionally, two-thirds opt for gasoline vehicles due to personal preference – illustrating that there are still many barriers keeping drivers from making the switch.

“I’m an internal combustion engine kind of guy,” said Robert Piascik, 65, a musician who lives in Westerville, Ohio, a Columbus suburb. “I can’t see myself spending a premium to buy something that I don’t like as much as the lower-priced option.”

Despite being open to the idea of an electric vehicle, Piascik expressed concerns about their current drawbacks; namely limited range, lack of places to recharge, and long recharge times which could restrict his ability to go on longer journeys.

With his 2017 BMW 3-Series, Piascik is able to breeze through the gas station, quickly filling up and being on his way in no time. “The early adopters have to put up with a lack of infrastructure,” he said.

President Biden has announced an ambitious plan to make electric vehicle charging (EV) stations a common sight across the country. A massive $5 billion investment from 2021’s infrastructure law will ensure that EV chargers are installed or upgraded along 75,000 miles of roadway – stretching all the way from ocean to ocean. This initiative is sure to make our highways greener in no time at all.

In an effort to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in America, Tesla has announced that they will open some of their expansive charging network – regarded as one of the fastest and most reliable in the country – to all EV drivers by the end of next year.

Despite an overall enthusiasm for electric vehicles, Americans remain divided along party lines: While Democrats are primarily dissuaded by high prices and limited charging infrastructure, Republicans tend to simply have a preference for gas-powered cars.

For James Rogers, a Democrat from Sacramento who voted for Biden in the recent election, climate change is an issue of paramount importance. Although he agrees with his President-Elect’s approach to address it, he believes electric car prices must come down and charging infrastructure needs improvement before making a purchase himself; proving that we still have much work left to do when tackling this issue.

Rogers, a 62-year-old retired customer service rep, was left feeling overwhelmed by the hefty price tag of an electric vehicle even with its associated tax credit. Hopeful for more affordable options in the future, he’s only willing to spend up to $42k – but that asks quite a lot from someone living on fixed retirement income.

The latest polls show that a majority of younger adults are embracing the idea of electric vehicles, with 55% of those under 30 indicating they’re likely to buy one next time. Even more promisingly, nearly half (49%) in the age group between 30 and 44 also appear ready for EVs. This enthusiasm seems to drop off sharply among older generations; only 31% 45 or over indicated any likelihood towards going electric.

U.S. adults recognize the benefits of owning an electric vehicle- from cost savings to environmental friendliness – and this is reflected in a recent survey which found that three quarters cited saving money on gas as one major reason for buying an EV.

For many looking to purchase an EV, concern for the environment is a true motivator. With over 65% of buyers citing climate change as either a major or minor factor in their decision-making process; this reveals green initiatives have become increasingly important to today’s consumers.

Source: Transport Topics