EVs remain a niche choice in the US, according to survey

The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States appears to be slowing, though it continues to advance. According to Deloitte’s 2026 Global Automotive Consumer Study, only 7 percent of American car buyers are inclined to choose an electric vehicle for their next purchase. While this figure may seem low, it's a notable 40 percent increase from the previous year, which recorded just 5 percent interest in EVs. Despite this growth in interest, traditional internal combustion engines remain the top choice for U.S. consumers, with 61 percent of respondents indicating they prefer this option for their next vehicle. The interest in hybrids has also seen a slight uptick, with 21 percent of buyers favoring them, compared to 20 percent the previous year. Conversely, interest in plug-in hybrids has declined, dropping from 6 percent to 5 percent. A small percentage of buyers are still undecided or considering alternative options, such as hydrogen-powered vehicles. The U.S. stands out as an anomaly in the global automotive market, where preferences are shifting away from gas-powered vehicles. Less than half of German consumers express a desire for another internal combustion car, and this figure drops to 41 percent in major markets like China, Japan, and South Korea. Interestingly, the demand for EVs varies significantly by region; while China boasts a robust 20 percent interest in battery-operated vehicles, Japan shows a mere 5 percent preference, with 37 percent of consumers leaning towards hybrids instead. Deloitte's survey was conducted between October and November 2025, coinciding with the implementation of various U.S. government policies that could hinder EV adoption. These measures include the cancellation of the clean vehicle tax credit, the rollback of fuel efficiency standards, and a lack of enforcement against automakers that fail to meet current efficiency regulations. Furthermore, uncertainties regarding import tariffs continue to loom over the market. Many automakers have invested heavily in developing EV manufacturing capabilities in North America, aiming to meet growing demands. However, the return on these investments may be slow. A significant barrier remains for potential EV buyers; 53 percent of U.S. respondents reported lacking access to home charging options. In comparison, only 20 percent of German respondents and 6 percent of those in China indicated similar limitations. Japan, where EVs and plug-ins are even less favored, has the highest percentage of individuals without home charging access, at 75 percent.