Remember when everyone was buzzing about electric cars being the future? Well, not everyone’s on board just yet. It turns out, many Americans are still leaning towards the familiar rumble of a gasoline engine. I’ve been following the EV market for years, and even with more affordable options hitting the streets, old habits—and concerns—die hard.
I’ve spent countless hours researching and testing vehicles, and my aim here is to break down the latest survey data, separating hype from reality. Let’s get into why EVs haven’t completely won over the hearts (and wallets) of U.S. drivers.
1. Gas-Powered Cars Still Dominate: What the Survey Says
A recent study by Deloitte, the 2026 Global Automotive Consumer Study, reveals that a whopping 61% of U.S. consumers prefer their next vehicle to have a traditional combustion engine. This comprehensive survey included over 28,500 people across 27 countries, giving us a broad view of what drivers are thinking. That’s a significant majority still clinging to gasoline.
Deloitte noted in a press release that Americans are weighing the costs with the practicality of charging and daily use. Range anxiety, charging times, and overall expenses are major factors holding people back.
2. EV Interest Stalls: Only a Small Increase in Demand
Only 7% of those surveyed expressed a desire for their next car to be fully electric. That’s barely a nudge from last year’s 5%. The primary motivator for those interested in EVs? Lower fuel costs. Makes sense, right?
3. What Are the Biggest Concerns About Buying an EV?
When asked about their reservations regarding all-electric vehicles, respondents highlighted a few key issues:
- Driving range (47%)
- Charging time (44%)
- High prices (40%)
These concerns paint a picture of hesitation rooted in practicality and financial considerations. People I talk to often bring up these exact points. They wonder if an EV can handle their road trips or if they’ll be stuck waiting hours at a charging station.
4. The Price Barrier: Can EVs Become More Affordable?
Affordability is a significant hurdle. About 44% of U.S. consumers want to spend less than $35,000 (EUR 32,500) on their next car. While some EVs, like the Nissan Leaf (starting at $29,990 or EUR 27,890), squeak in under that mark, many models, including Tesla’s Model 3 (around $36,000 or EUR 33,540), remain out of reach for many buyers. Finding that sweet spot between price and features is a big challenge for EV makers.
5. Tesla and Rivian Sales Dip: Is the EV Market Cooling Down?
Recent sales figures from major EV players in the U.S. show a bit of a slowdown. Tesla’s fourth-quarter deliveries in 2025 dropped by 16% compared to the previous quarter, and overall deliveries for the year decreased by 9%, totaling 1,636,129 vehicles. Rivian also saw an 18% decrease in sales, delivering 42,247 vehicles in 2025.
What caused Tesla and Rivian to have a drop in sales?
One reason is the expiration of federal EV tax credits, making EVs less financially attractive. Also, some suggest that Elon Musk’s public image might be affecting Tesla’s sales among certain demographics.
6. Meanwhile, in China: EV Sales Are Booming
While the U.S. market shows some hesitancy, China’s EV market is surging. BYD surpassed Tesla as the world’s top EV seller, delivering 2.26 million electric vehicles in 2025—a 28% increase from the previous year. Unsurprisingly, Chinese consumers show greater enthusiasm for EVs, with 20% considering an EV for their next purchase, compared to 41% favoring combustion engines.
Why are EV sales so much higher in China than in the USA?
Several factors contribute to this, including stronger government support for EVs, denser urban areas making charging more accessible, and a greater cultural acceptance of new technologies.
7. Range Anxiety: Still a Major Roadblock for EV Adoption
The Deloitte study confirms what many EV skeptics have long voiced: range anxiety is a real concern. Nearly half of respondents (47%) cited driving range as a primary issue. People worry about running out of charge on long trips or not having access to charging stations when they need them. Overcoming this psychological barrier is key to wider EV acceptance.
How are automakers addressing range anxiety in electric vehicles?
Automakers are actively working to improve battery technology, increasing the range of new EV models. They’re also investing in expanding the charging infrastructure to alleviate concerns about finding charging stations on the road.
8. Charging Time: The Need for Speed
Charging time is another significant pain point, with 44% of respondents flagging it as a concern. No one wants to spend hours waiting for their car to charge, especially when filling up a gas tank takes just a few minutes. Faster charging technologies are crucial to making EVs more appealing.
What advancements are being made to reduce EV charging times?
Innovations in battery technology and charging infrastructure are leading to faster charging times. New fast-charging stations can now add a significant amount of range in a relatively short period, and research into solid-state batteries promises even quicker charging in the future.
The Road Ahead for EVs
While the Deloitte survey highlights the challenges facing EV adoption in the U.S., it’s not all doom and gloom. As technology improves, prices come down, and charging infrastructure expands, EVs will likely become more attractive to a wider range of consumers. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
What do you think—will EVs eventually take over the roads, or will gas-powered cars remain dominant for years to come? Share your thoughts in the comments below!