AAA: More U.S. drivers want an electric vehicle

ATLANTA – American appetite for electric vehicles is heating up. A new AAA survey shows that 50 million, or 20 percent, of Americans will likely go electric for their next vehicle purchase, up from 15 percent in 2017.

With lower-than-average ownership costs, increased driving ranges and the latest advanced safety features, AAA sees a strong future for electric vehicles. To help “green” car shoppers make an informed choice, AAA conducts independent, rigorous test-track evaluations of plug-in hybrids, hybrid and fuel-efficient, gas-powered vehicles.

“Electric vehicles have become more affordable, attractive, and they include innovative technology,” Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman, AAA – The Auto Club Group, said. “Many consumers view electric vehicles as the cars of the future, but AAA still encourages consumers to do their homework when choosing an EV to determine whether or not it is a good fit for their lifestyle.”

Perhaps fueling American’s desire for electric vehicles, AAA’s survey found that “range anxiety” is beginning to ease. Among those unsure or unwilling to choose an electric vehicle for their next car, 63 percent, down 9 percent from 2017, cited not enough places to charge as a detractor while 58 percent, down 15 percent from 2017, expressed concern over running out of charge while driving.

Range anxiety is less of a concern for millennials, who were at 48 percent, than Generation X or Baby Boomers, who were at 64 percent and 66 percent, respectively.

While range is important to most, or 87 percent, of electric and hybrid vehicle shoppers, it is not the only consideration. Reliability is king with 92 percent of those likely to by an electric or hybrid vehicle stating it is important when evaluating which car to buy. Seventy-seven electric and hybrid car shoppers are also prioritizing crash ratings, 71 percent are most concerned about cost, 69 percent are worried about acceleration and handling and 60 percent are concerned about advanced safety technology such as automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assistance.

Thirty-four percent of drivers are concerned with style, color, or design of the vehicle, and 33 percent are concerned with the brand of the vehicle.

To help drivers looking to making the switch or find their next green vehicle, Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center conducts extensive and thorough testing of high fuel efficiency, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles each year, and assigns ratings based on criteria important to buyers such as ride quality, safety and performance.

“Electric Vehicles are energy efficient, and environmentally friendly,” Waiters said. “Potential buyers also like the fact that electric vehicles require less maintenance than internal combustion engines.”

In 2018, the following vehicles earned AAA’s Top Green Vehicle award:

— Overall: Tesla Model X 75D

— Subcompact Car: Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier

— Compact Car: Nissan Leaf SL

— Midsize Car: BMW 530e i-Performance

— Large Car: Tesla Model S 75

— Pickup: Ford F-150 4X4 XLT Sport

— SUV/Minivan: Tesla Model X 75D

— Best Under $30,000: Kia Niro LX

— Best $30,000-$50,000: Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier

_ Best Over $50,000: Tesla Model X 75D

This year, the availability of charging stations had grown to more than 16,000 in the United States and, although anxiety over range has reduced, AAA’s survey found consumer expectation for charging time while on the road may not align with reality. Sixty-eight percent of Americans feel that while out driving, a charging time of no more than 30 minutes is a reasonable amount of time to wait.

Winners, detailed evaluation criteria, vehicle reviews and an in-depth analysis of the green vehicle industry can be found at www.AAA.com/greencar.