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Why Aren’t More Americans Buying Electric Cars? The Main Barriers

Cost, charging access, range concerns and uncertainty about ownership economics help explain why many Americans remain hesitant about fully electric vehicles.
Entry935 Date Time4 min MechanicCarCody Team
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Americans’ hesitation about fully electric vehicles comes down to a connected set of concerns: upfront and repair costs, charging access, long-trip planning, and uncertainty about ownership economics and incentives. These barriers do not affect every driver equally. A buyer without dependable home charging may weigh public-network access more heavily, while a household with another vehicle may find long trips easier to manage.

What the surveys say about EV interest

There is no single survey figure for how many Americans are ready to buy an EV, because the studies ask different people different questions. In AAA’s March 6–10, 2025 survey of 1,128 U.S. adults, 16% said they were likely or very likely to buy a fully electric vehicle as their next car; 63% said they were unlikely or very unlikely. AAA reports an overall margin of error of ±4 percentage points, with larger margins for smaller subgroups. AAA’s 2025 survey findings.

JD Power surveyed 8,164 consumers who intended to buy or lease a new vehicle within 12 months, fielding the study from January through April 2025. Among this group, 24% were very likely and 35% somewhat likely to consider an EV. That result is not directly comparable to AAA’s: JD Power surveyed near-term new-vehicle shoppers and included a “somewhat likely” category, while AAA asked U.S. adults about buying a fully electric vehicle as their next car. JD Power’s 2025 EV consideration study.

Purchase price and ownership costs feel uncertain

Price is more than the sticker amount. Buyers may also consider financing, depreciation, battery-repair concerns, fuel and maintenance costs, and whether incentives apply to their specific purchase. The surveys identify these as barriers, but they do not establish one typical household’s total cost or a universal EV price premium.

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#1 Best Overall
ChargePoint HomeFlex Level 2 EV Fast Charger, J1772, Smart, Hardwired, 50A
  • Charge with Confidence: ChargePoint builds reliable, flexible EV charging stations for home, business, and fleets. Get 24/7 support and access to hundreds of thousands of North American charging locations.
  • Charge Smart: With the user-friendly ChargePoint Mobile App, you can control your electric car charger, manage reminders, connect to smart home devices, find stations, get data and charging info, and access the latest features. Note: WiFi is needed for certain functionalities and troubleshooting steps if connectivity issues arise.
  • Vast Network: Wherever you go, ChargePoint’s network includes 274k+ stations across North America and Europe and 565k+ roaming partner stations.
  • Safe & Durable: Rely on this UL-certified EV charger for safe home charging. It can be installed indoors or outdoors by an electrician and includes a cold-resistant cable.
  • Fast & Powerful: This EV charger charges 9× faster than a 120V outlet, delivering up to 45 mi/hr., dependent upon your vehicle. It features a J1772 connector for all non-Tesla EVs and requires a 20A or 80A circuit. For Tesla EVs, this will require an adapter.
  • In AAA’s 2025 survey, 59% cited purchase price and 62% cited high battery repair costs as reasons for hesitation.
  • In JD Power’s 2025 survey of prospective new-vehicle buyers, 43% cited purchase price and 33% cited cost of ownership as reasons for rejecting an EV.

These figures come from different questions and populations; they should not be combined or treated as a single ranking. AAA’s 2024 analysis also illustrates why ownership costs can seem contradictory: it described EVs as having the second-highest total ownership costs overall, pointing to depreciation, purchase prices, and finance charges, while also reporting the lowest fuel and maintenance costs. Those are distinct cost components, not a household-specific comparison. AAA’s release and cost discussion.

Charging access can determine whether an EV fits daily life

Charging is easiest to plan when a driver can reliably charge at home or work. Without that option, public charging availability and reliability become more important parts of ordinary routines. The U.S. Department of Energy-sponsored charging report says most EV charging events occur at home and identifies public-station availability and reliability problems as recurring reasons prospective buyers do not purchase. DOE-sponsored report abstract on EV charging.

In JD Power’s 2025 study, 52% of shoppers who were somewhat or very unlikely to consider an EV cited charging-station availability. The study’s 2024 edition found the same share among unlikely shoppers, and also listed inability to charge at home or work among rejection reasons. In AAA’s 2025 survey, 56% cited lack of convenient public charging stations; among undecided or unlikely buyers, 27% reported challenges installing residential charging. These are reported concerns, not proof that every area lacks adequate charging or that every driver needs a home charger.

Rank #2
EVDANCE Level 1&2 EV Charger, Electric Vehicle Portable Charger with 25FT Cable, ETL Listed J1772 EVSE for All EVs & PHEVs, 12A 120V/16A 240V(Black, 16A Max | NEMA 5-15&6-20(Standard Home Plug))
  • Flex Level 1 EV Charger - The EVDANCE Level 1 electric car charger is compatible with J1772 electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles (North American Standard). *Tesla requires a SAE J1772 adapter.
  • Convenient to Use - This charger has both NEMA 6-20 plug for 16A 240V charging (3.68kW, 10-12 mi/h) and a NEMA 6-20 to 5-15 plug adapter for 12A 120V charging (1.44kW, 2-5 mi/h). The included bag makes it easier to carry on the go. It also has a 25ft cable length, you can use it flexibly from anywhere in the garage or driveway.
  • Check Your Outlet Type -This charger works with standard 120V NEMA 5-15/5-20 outlets (2-5 mph charging speed) and 240V NEMA 6-20 outlets (10-12 mph) . It's not compatible with NEMA 6-15/10-30/14-30/14-50/6-50 outlets – you'll need a NEMA 14-50/14-30/10-30/6-50 to 6-20 adapter (sold separately) to connect.
  • Compatible EV Models -This EV charger works with most major electric vehicles, including Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Audi, Nissan Ariya, Rivian R1S, Kia, and others. However, it's not compatible with Mini Cooper Electric Hardtop,Toyota Prus Prime/Z4X/RAV4Prime, Porsche Taycan Base/4S/Turbo/Turbo S or Tesla models (Tesla requires a J1772 to Tesla Adapter, sold separately). For a full list of compatible models, check out the Full Compatibility List on our product page.
  • Indication Displays - LED display that can tell you the status as well as indicate errors while charging your electric vehicle.

Long trips and range anxiety remain concerns

In AAA’s 2025 survey, 57% cited perceived unsuitability for long-distance travel and 55% feared running out of charge while driving. These figures describe respondents’ concerns; they are not a technical finding that EVs cannot make long trips. A driver’s experience depends on the vehicle, route, charging access, and willingness to plan around stops.

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Household context matters. A National Institute of Standards and Technology summary of a peer-reviewed study based on 2023 survey data from 1,443 U.S. residents describes differences in motivations and charging behavior between households with only battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and those with both BEVs and conventional vehicles. It notes that households with both types are better positioned to manage perceived range limitations. The findings describe associations and modeled differences, not a guarantee about any one household. NIST’s summary of the study.

Rank #3
Sale
EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger J1772 40A NEMA 14-50 - 240V Wall Charging Station
  • WORKS WITH EVERY NON-TESLA EV: Standard J1772 connector plugs straight into Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Rivian, Lucid and every other EV or plug-in hybrid sold with a J1772 port - no adapter needed. Tesla drivers can charge too, using the J1772 adapter that comes with the car.
  • PLUG IN, NO HARDWIRING: Level 2 charger delivers up to 40A to fully charge most EVs overnight. Plugs into a 240V, 4-prong NEMA 14-50 outlet (the RV/range type - NOT a dryer outlet) on a dedicated 50A circuit. The extra-long 25 ft cable easily reaches across a garage or driveway. Before ordering, check your car's port type and that you have the right outlet.
  • CONTROL & SAVE FROM YOUR PHONE: A stronger built-in antenna keeps the charger online even in a garage or basement. Use the free app to start/stop charging, set speed (6-40A), get reminders, and track energy use and cost. Schedule off-peak overnight charging to cut your electric bill. Requires 2.4 GHz WiFi.
  • SAFETY-CERTIFIED & WEATHERPROOF: Independently tested and certified (UL, ETL, FCC, Energy Star). A fully sealed IP66 / NEMA 4 housing stands up to rain, snow, heat and dust indoors or out, and internal steel shielding protects the electronics for years of reliable use.
  • GLOW-IN-THE-DARK HOLSTER: The included high-visibility holster glows in the dark so you can find and dock the plug easily at night. Holds the connector securely when not in use.

Knowledge, incentives and vehicle fit can affect the decision

Some prospective buyers are uncertain about the EV ownership proposition: how charging would work, what ownership costs include, or whether incentives apply. JD Power described lack of knowledge about ownership and incentives as a roadblock in its 2024 study. Incentive eligibility can change and depends on the specific purchase, so a general survey finding is not a substitute for checking current rules for a particular vehicle and buyer. JD Power’s 2024 EV consideration study.

Practical fit also matters: whether available models meet a buyer’s needs and preferences, whether charging can be handled at home or work, and how often longer trips are made. JD Power’s 2024 findings showed higher EV consideration among shoppers adding another household vehicle than among those relying on one vehicle. A second vehicle can make it easier to choose an EV for suitable daily driving without asking it to meet every trip need.

Rank #4
Sale
EVIQO Level 2 EV Charger J1772 48A - Hardwired 240V Wall Charging Station
  • WORKS WITH EVERY NON-TESLA EV: Standard J1772 connector plugs straight into Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Rivian, Lucid and every other EV or plug-in hybrid sold with a J1772 port - no adapter needed. Tesla drivers can charge too, using the J1772 adapter that comes with the car. The extra-long 25 ft cable easily reaches across a garage or driveway.
  • HARDWIRED - PROFESSIONAL INSTALL: This Level 2 charger is hardwired (not plug-in), so a licensed electrician installs it per National Electrical Code. It delivers up to 48A on a dedicated 60A, 240V circuit - enough to charge most EVs fully overnight. Want more speed? You can set DIP switches 4 and 5 to unlock 50A on a dedicated 70A circuit. Before ordering, check your car's port type and that your electrical panel can support the circuit.
  • CONTROL FROM YOUR PHONE: A stronger built-in antenna keeps the charger online even in a garage or basement. Use the free app to start and stop charging, set the charging speed (6-48A), get reminders, and track how much energy and money each charge uses. Requires a 2.4 GHz home WiFi network.
  • SAFETY-CERTIFIED & WEATHERPROOF: Independently tested and certified (UL, ETL, FCC, Energy Star). A fully sealed IP66 / NEMA 4 housing stands up to rain, snow, heat and dust indoors or out, and internal steel shielding protects the electronics for years of reliable use.
  • GLOW-IN-THE-DARK HOLSTER: The included high-visibility holster glows in the dark so you can find and dock the plug easily at night. Holds the connector securely when not in use.
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How to judge whether an EV fits your household

Rather than relying on a broad claim that an EV is always cheaper or more convenient, compare a specific vehicle with the alternative you would actually buy:

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  • Charging: Check whether home or workplace charging is available, whether residential installation is feasible and permitted, and what public charging is accessible on your regular routes.
  • Driving: Consider daily mileage, how often you take longer trips, and whether another household vehicle can cover trips that are harder to plan around charging.
  • Costs: Compare purchase price, financing, depreciation, insurance, repair concerns, fuel or electricity, maintenance, and any installation costs for your situation.
  • Incentives: Verify current eligibility for the exact vehicle and buyer rather than assuming a general incentive applies.
  • Fit: Confirm that the available vehicle meets your needs for space, use, and driving preferences.

The survey evidence explains why more Americans have not committed to fully electric vehicles, but it does not establish a universal reason or a universal financial answer. Cost, charging, travel patterns, information, and vehicle fit interact differently for each household.

Best Value
NexCyber Level 2 EV Charger(WiFi APP/Plug-Play), 48A Nema 14-50p, 25ft Cable ETL Certified, Home Level 2 EVSE Car Charger w/ J1772 Connector, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (46)
  • [Up to 9x Faster Charging Speed]: Provides up to 46 miles/hour charging speed via hardwired connection (48 amp - up to 9x faster than a standard wall outlet) or up to 38 miles/hour via the NEMA 14-50 plug (40 amp). Professional installation recommended for optimal safety and performance. [Install The Power Outlet Cord]: No smaller than 8AWG if charge 40-48A, we suggest 6AWG cord.(1.The input side is belongs to the electrician electric automobile regulation scope, need to use three 6AWG cable wires for 48A; 2.The charging cable belongs to the automotive connector certification standard, so the 8AWG cable can meet the 48A.)
  • [DESIGNED WITH J1772 Connector for All North America j1772 Connector EVs/PHEVs. Not fits for Tesla/Nacs Connector Cars(j1772 to Tesla adapter needed)]: Compatible with Tesla cars (Adapter needed, not included), Ford, GM, Audi, Kia, Honda, Kia, Hyundai, Gmc, Chevrolet Bolt, VW ID 4, Nissan Leaf, Ford Mustang Mach-E, IONIQ 5 2024 and before, BMW i3, i4, iX, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, etc. [Not fits for Nac connector cars-Kia EV6 2025/EV9,Ariya 2025&2025 loniq 5(J1772 to Tesla adapter needed)]
  • [Safety & Faster Charging with ETL, FCC, Energy Star Certified]: Meets the Safety Criteria Defined by: SAE J1772, UL2231-1/-2, UL 991, UL 2231, UL 2251, UL1998 and UL 2594. (ETL and FCC certified EV car charger with 3-year Warranty)
  • [Plug-play Mode(The Default Setting), Smart Touch Screen, No APP Needed]: Clearly show the charging amperage, charging speed, input voltage, delay time, etc. For the touch buttons: 1. Pull out the charging gun before press the buttons, otherwise no respond; 2. Long press "Ⓐ" or "Time" button to enter the setting interface, then you can adjust the amperage from 16A to 48A freely or Set the charging start time; 3. You can do "factory reset" if doesn't charging.
  • [Smart WIFI APP, You can Set the Charging Period]: By APP, you can wirelessly check the charging cost, history, fully-charged notification, track the charging status, during off-peak period, etc. [Wi-Fi Reset/Factory Reset Function, Add New Device Quickly]: If you can't find your device or you have replaced a new phone, just pull out the charging latches, simultaneously long press the Ⓐ button and time adjustment button on the product screen until it shows "Factory Reset", then wait 3-5 seconds and re-start your device.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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