Startling New Survey Reveals: Americans Abandon Electric Vehicles as Major Doubts Mount for 2025
A 2025 AAA survey shows U.S. electric vehicle interest collapsing to its lowest point in years. Here’s why drivers are turning away from EVs.
- Only 16% of U.S. drivers are likely to buy an EV—down from 25% in 2022.
- 63% say they’re “unlikely” or “very unlikely” to go electric next time.
- 77% of EV shoppers cite fuel cost savings as main motivation in 2025.
- Over 75 new EV models have entered the U.S. market since 2021.
American drivers are slamming the brakes on electric vehicle (EV) purchases in 2025, with new data revealing the sharpest plunge in interest in half a decade. According to AAA’s latest annual survey, only 16% of U.S. adults now report they are “very” or “likely” to choose an EV for their next car—a dramatic fall from the pandemic-era high of 25% just three years ago.
What’s driving this massive turnabout? Major deterrents like soaring upfront costs, unclear incentives, and the persistent nightmares about long trips with nowhere to charge have made many consumers think twice before going electric.
Why Are Americans Saying “No” to EVs in 2025?
Despite the Tesla-fueled hype, the reality on American roads looks starkly different today. In AAA’s 2025 data, drivers are more skeptical than ever. The share of consumers “unlikely” to ever buy an EV jumped to 63%, up 12 points from just a year ago.
Top concerns include:
- High Battery Maintenance Costs: 62% fear wallet-destroying repairs.
- Expensive Sticker Prices: 59% can’t get past the initial outlay.
- Range Anxiety: 57% doubt EVs can handle road trips or long commutes.
- Poor Charging Infrastructure: 56% say public chargers are still too scarce.
- Running Out of Charge: 55% worry about getting stranded.
Other hurdles range from safety and installing home charging to uncertain government tax credits. In fact, the proportion of would-be EV buyers motivated by federal discounts fell sharply—from 60% last year to just 39% now.
Q: Are Hybrids Winning the Race?
Yes, and fast. As full EVs lose their shine, hybrids and plug-in hybrid vehicles have become the new darlings. According to AAA, these options offer the familiarity of gas engines with enough battery power to shrink emissions—without the constant fear of “range anxiety.”
The idea of splitting the difference is resonating as drivers look for practical ways to save on fuel rather than gamble on unproven tech or unstable incentives.
Q: What About Gas Prices and Incentives?
Ironically, one of the main draws to electric vehicles—sky-high gas prices—is now far less urgent. The spring of 2025 saw fuel at its cheapest in four years, making the “go electric, save money” pitch less convincing than ever.
Uncertainty around rebates and tax credits is also muddying the waters. Political tension has Americans bracing for possible rollbacks, further dampening enthusiasm for a pricey leap into electrification.
How-to: Navigate Car Buying in 2025’s Changing Landscape
If you’re shopping for a new ride in 2025, experts from AAA suggest weighing all the options—especially hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Make a checklist of must-have features, budget for potential battery repairs, and ask about local charging infrastructure. Check the latest on tax credits to avoid budget shocks.
Q: Will Most Cars Be Electric By 2035?
Fewer Americans are betting on that future. The percentage who think most cars will be electric within a decade plummeted from 40% in 2022 to just 23% today.
The variety of new EVs from legacy automakers—including titans like GM and Ford—hasn’t yet shifted the national mood. Public doubts around cost, convenience, and policy changes still dominate the conversation.
Ready to Make Your Next Move?
Don’t let fast-changing trends leave you stranded. Get ahead with these expert moves now:
- Assess your driving needs: Weigh long-distance habits and local charging access.
- Compare total costs: Factor in both sticker price and expected battery maintenance.
- Monitor incentive news: Government rebates and tax credits may shift quickly.
- Test drive hybrids: Explore practical, fuel-saving alternatives to full EVs.
Your next car could shape your finances for years. Stay informed and drive with confidence!
