EV Interest Waning

Changing Times

Electric cars and their cool tech features have been the talk of the town for a while. They show up more in garages and driveways each year. But a fresh survey from AAA paints a different picture about folks’ willingness to switch to electric in the States. It turns out, the buzz around EVs is fizzling out among many American drivers.

Survey Says

According to the 2025 AAA survey, only 16% of those polled are even considering buying an EV. That’s the lowest figure since 2019 and a big drop from the 25% who showed interest just three years ago. Meanwhile, a notable 63% are steering clear of electrics, citing a host of concerns.

Cost Concerns

The main roadblock revolves around money—it’s no secret that EVs can be pricey. The survey says that 62% of people worry about the steep cost of battery repairs, while 59% are spooked by the initial purchase price. In terms of practicality, 57% feel EVs just don’t cut it for long road trips, and 56% point to the lack of an adequate charging network. Charging station availability and “range anxiety” are real deal-breakers for 55% of respondents.

Incentives and Innovation

Support for government-backed incentives like tax breaks is sliding down too, with just 39% factoring it into their EV considerations—down sharply from 60% in 2022. Another 22% mention they’re in it for the techy goodies, but that’s also a drop compared to past interest levels.

Driving Experience

Driving an EV can be an absolute treat once you cut through the static. They’re quiet, almost serene, and the instant torque can feel like getting shot out of a sling in the best possible way. Compared to a traditional gas engine, the acceleration of an EV is silky smooth and responsive.

This isn’t to say an EV is necessarily superior in all scenarios. If long highway hauls or frequent road trips are part of the norm, the lack of charging stations can be a pain, unlike the good old gasser that’s just a fuel stop away from hitting the road. But if daily commutes or town drives are more your speed, an EV offers a whisper-quiet drive and fewer trips to the shop overall, given the fewer moving parts.

The Road Ahead

Despite the cooling of interest, there’s no denying that the world is leaning more into the EV lane. While some American drivers may still be hedging their bets with hybrids, the auto industry is sticking with its electrification mission. Guess what? In the end, the car market might just surprise everyone, because every year brings new models and technologies that improve the driving experience and trim costs.

With opinions ranging as widely as the cars themselves, it’s a waiting game to see if or when the majority will make the leap to full electrics. But like Greg Bannon from AAA mentions, the variety and potential of EVs are there, even if consumer trust is still warming up to it.