Most EV owners committed but cracks showing

Electric vehicle owners are still mostly happy with their rides — but a new study shows that satisfaction is slipping, especially among older drivers and non-Tesla owners.

The second annual EV Ownership Lifestyle Study from CDK Global reveals that while enthusiasm for electric vehicles remains strong, some of the shine is starting to wear off. The report, based on a survey conducted between December 2024 and January 2025, dives into the habits, frustrations and future plans of EV owners across the country.

The vast majority (82 per cent) of EV owners say they’ll buy another electric vehicle. But that number drops sharply among baby boomers, with only 55 per cent saying they’d go electric again. Additionally, nearly one in three boomers said they plan to return to a gas-only household.

Despite the generational divide, the overall mood is still upbeat. Most owners (86 per cent) are happy with their purchase, and 70 per cent say their EV is the best car they’ve ever owned. But the study also highlights growing concerns around charging, service and cold-weather performance.

Charging still a chore

While home charging remains a key benefit, fewer owners are installing Level 2 chargers — down to 63 per cent from 76 per cent last year. And nearly half of respondents said the installation process was a hassle.

Public charging isn’t much better: 55 per cent of non-Tesla owners reported issues on long trips, from broken plugs to full stations.

Service frustrations rising

Service delays are also on the rise. Only 28 per cent of owners were able to get a same-day appointment, down from 40 per cent last year. And while most repairs were covered under warranty or recall, nearly a third of non-Tesla owners needed four or more visits to resolve their issues.

Tesla vs. the rest

Tesla owners continue to report a smoother experience overall. They’re more likely to use just one app for charging, face fewer service delays and are more loyal to the brand — 70 per cent say they’ll stick with Tesla for their next EV, compared to 62 per cent of other EV owners.

Cold weather woes

Range anxiety is still a factor, especially in colder climates. Nearly one-third of all owners said their EV’s range drops in extreme cold, and that number jumps to 48 per cent in cold-weather states.

Future looks bright

Even with the bumps in the road, the majority of owners are sticking with electric. Two-thirds say their EV is the best car they’ve ever driven, and 73 per cent have recommended EVs to friends or family.

“As 2025 moves on, there may be a number of factors that disrupt EV adoption, including the loss of federal incentives and possible tariffs,” the report stated. “What EV owners are telling us is that once they’ve made their purchase, they’re very satisfied with going electric. And while some may return to gas vehicles, the vast majority aren’t looking back.”

Interesting stats

1. 82 per cent of EV owners say they’ll buy another EV.
2. 34 per cent of EV owners say their EV is the only vehicle they own.
3. 95 per cent of EV owners took a test drive before buying.
4. 76 per cent of owners say they’ve saved money by driving an EV.
5. 63 per cent of owners installed a Level 2 home charger — down from 76 per cent last year.
6. 45 per cent of owners reported no issues with long-distance charging — but only 42 per cent of non-Tesla owners said the same.
7. Only 28 per cent of owners got a same-day service appointment — down from 40 per cent.
8. 31 per cent of owners said their EV’s range drops in extreme cold.
9. 70 per cent say their EV is the best car they’ve ever owned.
10. 73 per cent have recommended EVs to friends or family.

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