Fewer Americans Interested in Electric Cars, AAA Survey Shows

 Price and Charging Concerns Cited as Challenges for Buying EVs

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (June 3, 2025) – Despite wider availability of electric vehicles (EVs) across the United States, interest among potential buyers has waned, according to new AAA research.

The latest Electric Vehicle Consumer Survey showed 16% of U.S. adults being "very likely" or "likely" to purchase a fully electric vehicle as their next car, the lowest percentage recorded of EV interests since 2019. Additionally, more than half of those surveyed (63%) also reported being "unlikely" or "very unlikely" to purchase an EV, the highest level since 2022.

"Electric cars still represent a growing market for the auto industry," said Todd Burger, Chief Automotive Officer for AAA Mountain West Group "AAA is committed to working with automakers to ensure we deliver outstanding service no matter what car Members choose to drive."

Interest in EVs was high in 2022 when nationwide gas prices pushed above $5. In that year’s survey, 77% cited gas savings as their top motivation to purchase an EV. Now, the national average for a gallon of regular ranges from $3.00 - $3.50, or higher depending on the state. 

Roadblocks and Rewards to Going Fully Electric 

The top reasons surveyed buyers say they are less likely to buy an EV include:

  • High battery repair costs (62%) 
  • High purchase price (59%) 
  • Concern for long-distance travel (57%)
  • Lack of convenient public charging stations (56%)
  • Fear of running out of charge while driving (55%)

Savings on gas (74%) was the top reason others remained interested in EVs along with the environment (59%), cheaper maintenance costs (47%), and tax credits and rebates (39%).

AAA EV Resources 

  • AAA EV Member Benefits: Explore specific benefits like EV roadside assistance, auto repair, battery services and Members discounts on charging and Hertz EV rentals. 
  • EV Resources: Explore everything you need to know about electric vehicles, from finding your perfect EV to understanding the costs and benefits of going electric.
  • AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for newer EVs, the online resources also contain links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2023. 
  • Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource available to consumers that gives a yearly breakdown of EV ownership costs  
  • EV Research: AAA in-house experts research consumer sentiment around EVs and their functionality. 

About AAA Mountain West Group

AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.7 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, and Utah. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.