Those who are interested in buying an EV say saving on gasoline (74%), environmental concerns (59%), and the lower maintenance costs associated with electric vehicles (47%) are the primary drivers. Other reasons consumers choose EVs include taking advantage of tax credits and rebates (39%), cutting edge technology (22%), and the expectation that their state will eventually ban gas-powered vehicles (10%).
Oregon continues to be a leader in EV adoption. Oregon reached 100,000 registered EVs last November, making it a top five state for EV adoption per capita.
AAA Oregon/Idaho has expanded its services for drivers of EVs, including the installation of DC Fast Charging at many of its Service Centers in Oregon and Idaho. DC fast charging is currently available at the Boise, Clackamas, Eugene, Lake Oswego, Medford Fleet, Salem and Springfield/Gateway AAA Service Centers. DC fast charging will be available soon at the Beaverton and Bend AAA Service Centers. Level 2 charging is also available at the Beaverton, Bend, Boise, Clackamas, Eugene, Lake Oswego, Medford, Portland, and Salem AAA Service Centers. Find more information at AAA.com/charge.
Reasons consumers aren’t interested in EVs
In AAA’s latest surveys about consumer attitudes towards electric vehicles, 63% say they’re “unlikely or very unlikely” to purchase an EV for their next car purchase. This is the same as last year.
The main reasons continue to be the high battery repair costs (62%) and the higher purchase price compared to traditional vehicles (59%). Other concerns identified in this year’s survey are the perceived unsuitability of EVs for long-distance travel (57%), a lack of convenient public charging stations (56%), range anxiety – the fear of running out of charge while driving (55%), and safety concerns about electric vehicles (31%). Other issues are challenges installing charging stations where they live (27%), and the potential reduction or elimination of tax credits and rebates (12%).
“Perceptions of EVs can vary widely by area. Drivers in states like Oregon where electric vehicles are popular often find EVs to be an attractive alternative and the appeal is fueled by an interest in saving on gas, environmental reasons, and lower maintenance costs. EVs can be a good choice for many households, especially if consumers have more than one vehicle and/or don’t have to drive long distances each day,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.
