Like any new and ground-breaking technology, getting electric vehicles (EVs) into the mainstream hasn’t been easy. Many consumers have had their doubts—with concerns about range, the hassle of charging, the higher price tag, or even the environmental impact of battery production. And let’s not forget the looming fear of how much it’ll cost to replace an EV battery down the road.

Over time, a lot of these worries naturally subsided. But the industry continues to tackle key concerns with better technology, smarter strategies, and more education. And they’re making headway: despite the skepticism that still surrounds electric cars, owners are overwhelmingly happy with their choice. During our latest Affinitiv Consumer Survey, we found that 97% of EV owners are satisfied with their electric vehicle—a strong sign that, even with all the noise, EVs are far from a flop.

What’s Driving High EV Satisfaction?

When asked about the aspects of their electric vehicle they’re most satisfied with, respondents to our survey saw the most value in:

• Fuel and maintenance savings. When upgrading to an EV, it shouldn’t take long to offset the initial purchase price—fewer stops and half the maintenance/repair costs save both time and money for owners.
  
  
• Technology. EV tech is next-level, and it’s continually getting better. Most electric cars are directly connected with a smartphone and allow owners to do more than they could with a gas-powered vehicle, like set custom schedules for climate control and battery warm-up—or explore insights on performance, energy usage, and driving patterns. By design, EVs also boast a quieter ride and superior torque technology versus internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, making every drive more comfortable, responsive, and fun.
  
  
• Home charging and fast charging speeds. Being able to charge a vehicle from home is a convenience only an EV can provide. Although the accessibility of home charging is great, it can be slow, so there are also Level 2 or Level 3/DC fast-charger options. Having the ability to use one or another gives owners more flexibility to fit their specific needs on any given day or journey.

The EV Boom is Just Getting Started

Based on Kelley Blue Book estimates, EV sales made up nearly 9% of total vehicle sales in Q3 2024—up by almost 8% year-over-year. That’s a record-breaking leap, and as demand keeps rising and owner satisfaction remains high, EVs are able to claim a bigger piece of the market.

New, more aggressive discounts and incentives have made it more appealing to go electric. But it’s not just about discounts. Other major factors are pushing EV sales higher, including:

• More consumer confidence. People are becoming more familiar with EVs, and as more of their friends, family, and neighbors make the switch, their own hesitations start to fade.
  
  
• Stronger awareness of long-term savings. Dealers are improving when it comes to educating their staff and their shoppers on the fuel and maintenance savings an electric car can provide. Since current owners are seeing these savings firsthand, they help to validate these claims and further boost awareness.
  
  
• Better affordability thanks to competition. As more automakers join the EV race, prices are starting to level out. Stronger competition leads to better options at more competitive price points.

A Changing EV Landscape

Playing into the rise of electric vehicle satisfaction and demand: much-needed shifts to infrastructure and ongoing technological advancements. As a result, EVs are now becoming a more practical option for all types of drivers.

Charging stations are popping up everywhere, and fast-charging technology is getting better. Take Tesla’s Supercharger network for example. It allows many Tesla owners to charge their vehicle to 80% in about 15 minutes—a game-changer for both road trips and everyday convenience. Add ongoing range improvements and we’re continually pushing the limits of what’s possible. With EVs like the Lucid Air Grand Touring offering an impressive 516-mile range on its highest trim, electric cars can now go the distance, making range anxiety less of an issue.

But automotive manufacturers and dealerships can’t do this all on their own—utility companies play a vital role in EV adoption and success, too. From detailed load forecasts to power grid updates to managed charging programs, utilities can help ensure a stable grid with the most cost-effective solutions. And their steadfast involvement is necessary to prevent catastrophic power failures as more EVs hit the road.

EV Adoption is Gaining Momentum. Is Your Dealership Ready?

Keeping up with EV trends can feel overwhelming, both for dealers and consumers. But the reality is, EVs are opening up new opportunities for dealerships to attract buyers and build long-term loyalty. When shoppers understand the benefits—whether it’s cost savings, technology, or the sheer thrill of instant torque—EVs become an easy sell.

For dealerships, success in the EV market comes down to education, the right technology, and a willingness to adapt. To stay ahead, explore more EV insights in our blog or connect with our team today.

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