New Drivers in West Losing Interest in EVs Due to High Costs, Survey Finds

Electric vehicles (EVs) are facing a decline in appeal among new drivers in Western nations, despite increasing satisfaction among existing EV owners, according to a survey conducted by Shell. The survey, which polled over 15,000 drivers across China, Europe, and the U.S., revealed that the high upfront cost of EVs remains a significant barrier to adoption. In both the U.S. and Europe, drivers of gasoline-powered cars reported a decreasing interest in switching to EVs.

David Bunch, Shell’s Group Executive Vice President of Mobility and Convenience, highlighted the challenges faced by new consumers in deciding to purchase an EV. He noted that while current EV drivers are feeling more confident, the relatively high cost of owning an electric vehicle, combined with broader economic pressures, are making it a difficult decision for new consumers. In Europe, 43% of non-EV drivers cited affordability as a major issue.

Ask Aime: Why are new drivers hesitant to switch to electric vehicles despite growing satisfaction among existing owners?

The survey found that the level of interest in switching to an EV among internal combustion engine drivers in the U.S. decreased from 34% in 2024 to 31%. In Europe, the interest from non-EV drivers dropped to 41% from 48% last year. This trend indicates a growing divide in attitudes toward electric cars, with new drivers in the U.S. and Europe showing less enthusiasm for making the switch.

China, however, saw a significant increase in EV adoption, with single-vehicle owning EV drivers rising from 72% to 89%. This surge is attributed to China's advancements in both the technology and cost of battery-powered cars, making EVs more accessible and appealing to consumers in the region.

Globally, the survey showed that nine out of ten current EV drivers would consider purchasing another electric vehicle for their next car. About 60% of EV drivers reported feeling less worried about running out of charge compared to a year ago, and three-quarters noted improvements in the availability and choice of public charging points. These findings suggest that once drivers make the switch to EVs, their satisfaction and confidence in the technology tend to increase.

Despite the challenges in EV adoption, Shell remains committed to supporting the transition to cleaner transport. The company has more than 75,000 charge points worldwide and continues to invest in EV infrastructure. Bunch emphasized the need for further efforts to stimulate demand and ensure that no one is left behind in the shift to cleaner transportation.

The survey's findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to make EVs more accessible and appealing to new drivers. Policymakers and automakers must address the affordability issue to accelerate EV adoption. Potential solutions include government incentives, such as tax credits or subsidies, and the development of more affordable EV models that cater to the budget constraints of new drivers.

The declining interest in EVs among new drivers also raises questions about the future of the automotive industry and its transition towards sustainable transportation. While the long-term benefits of EVs are well-documented, the immediate challenges of affordability and consumer perception must be addressed to ensure a smoother transition. The survey's results serve as a reminder that the path to widespread EV adoption is not straightforward and requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders.