46% of EV Owners Plan to Switch Back to Gas—Here’s Why

Electric vehicles were supposed to be the future of transportation, promising a cleaner, greener way to get around. However many EV owners are considering a return to gas-powered cars.

A study revealed that a staggering 46% of EV owners in the US plan to switch back to traditional combustion engines.

What’s driving this unexpected U-turn? From charging woes to range anxiety, the reasons are as diverse as they are numerous. Here are the top 15 factors causing EV enthusiasts to reconsider their eco-friendly rides.

1. Charging Infrastructure Challenges

The promise of a widespread, reliable charging network has fallen short for many EV owners. Outside of major urban centers, finding a charging station can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This scarcity creates a constant state of “range anxiety” for drivers, especially during long trips. Even in areas with better infrastructure, reliability is an issue.

A Berkeley study found that one in five charging attempts in California fails, leaving drivers stranded and frustrated.

2. Higher Operating Costs

Contrary to the popular belief that EVs are cheaper to run, many owners are experiencing sticker shock at public charging stations. The cost of charging can sometimes exceed that of filling up a gas tank, especially when factoring in additional fees and higher rates at fast-charging stations.

For those without access to home charging, relying on public stations can quickly eat into any potential savings. This financial reality is a far cry from the cost-effective promise that initially attracted many to EVs.

3. Limited Real-World Range

While manufacturers boast impressive range figures, the reality often falls short. Factors like cold weather, high speeds, and hilly terrain can significantly reduce an EV’s range.

Many owners find themselves unable to achieve the advertised range, leading to unexpected stops and longer travel times. This discrepancy between expectation and reality is a major source of frustration for EV owners, especially those who frequently take long trips.

4. Reliability Concerns

Despite the perception that EVs have fewer moving parts and should be more reliable, studies show the opposite. EVs are reportedly 80% more problematic than their gas-powered counterparts. (ref)

Software glitches, battery issues, and build quality problems are common complaints. These reliability issues often result in frequent trips to the dealership, inconveniencing owners and undermining confidence in the technology.

5. Rapid Depreciation

EV owners are experiencing a harsh financial reality: their vehicles are losing value at an alarming rate. The depreciation curve for electric vehicles is steeper than that of traditional cars.

Major price cuts by manufacturers like Tesla have exacerbated this issue, causing the resale value of existing EVs to plummet. This rapid depreciation is a significant financial blow for owners, especially those who bought their vehicles at premium prices.

6. Environmental Concerns

One of the primary motivations for buying an EV is environmental consciousness. However, some owners are questioning the true ecological impact of their vehicles.

The production of EV batteries involves the extraction of materials like lithium and cobalt, which can have significant environmental and ethical implications. Additionally, with over 60% of global electricity still generated from fossil fuels, (ref) the “green” credentials of EVs are being scrutinized.

7. Charging Time

The convenience of a five-minute fill-up at a gas station is sorely missed by many EV owners. Charging times, even at fast-charging stations, can be significantly longer than refueling a gas-powered car.

For those on long trips or with busy schedules, these extended charging times can be a major inconvenience. The prospect of waiting 30 minutes or more for a charge is pushing some back towards the instant gratification of gas pumps.

8. Limited Model Choices

While the EV market is growing, it still lags behind the variety offered in the gas-powered segment. Many drivers find themselves compromising on vehicle type or features to go electric.

This limited selection is particularly noticeable in certain categories like trucks, large SUVs, and sports cars. The lack of options can be frustrating for consumers who want to go electric but can’t find a vehicle that meets their specific needs or preferences.

9. Cold Weather Performance

EVs face significant challenges in cold climates. Battery performance and range can decrease dramatically in low temperatures.

This reduction in efficiency not only affects the driving range but also impacts charging times and overall vehicle performance. For residents in colder regions, this seasonal handicap is a major drawback that gas-powered vehicles don’t suffer from to the same extent.

10. Towing & Payload Limitations

For those who need their vehicles for more than just commuting, EVs often fall short. The added weight of towing significantly reduces range.

This limitation makes EVs less practical for activities like camping, boating, or hauling equipment. The reduced utility is a deal-breaker for many who rely on their vehicles for work or leisure activities that require towing capacity.

11. Battery Replacement Costs

While EVs require less regular maintenance, the prospect of battery replacement looms large. The cost of replacing an EV battery can be astronomical, often running into thousands of dollars.

This potential expense, which typically occurs outside the warranty period, is a financial time bomb that many owners aren’t prepared for. The uncertainty around battery longevity and replacement costs is pushing some back to the familiar territory of gas engines.

12. Charging at Home Challenges

Not everyone has access to home charging, which is crucial for convenient EV ownership. Apartment dwellers and those without off-street parking face significant hurdles in keeping their EVs charged.

Relying solely on public charging infrastructure can be inconvenient and more expensive. This lack of easy home charging access is a major barrier to EV adoption and a reason why some are returning to gas-powered vehicles.

13. Road Trip Anxiety

The spontaneity of a road trip is often lost with an EV. Owners find themselves meticulously planning routes around charging stations, adding stress to what should be an enjoyable experience.

The fear of being stranded in areas with limited charging options is real. This added layer of complexity and anxiety is pushing some road trip enthusiasts back to the simplicity and freedom offered by gas-powered vehicles.

14. Lack of Engine Sound

While the quietness of EVs is often touted as a benefit, some drivers miss the auditory feedback and emotional connection provided by a combustion engine.

The absence of engine noise can feel unnatural to driving enthusiasts and can even pose safety concerns for pedestrians who rely on auditory cues. This seemingly small factor is surprisingly significant for those who view driving as more than just transportation.

15. Resale Market Uncertainty

The used EV market is still in its infancy, creating uncertainty for owners looking to sell. Rapid advancements in technology mean that older models quickly become outdated. This uncertainty, coupled with concerns about battery degradation in used EVs, makes many potential buyers hesitant. The result is a challenging resale market that can leave current EV owners feeling stuck with a depreciating asset.

The electric vehicle revolution, while promising, is facing significant growing pains. As EV owners grapple with infrastructure limitations, unexpected costs, and practical challenges, many are reconsidering their commitment to this new technology.

The future of transportation still looks electric, but the road to widespread adoption may be longer and more winding than initially anticipated.

Source:

1. McKinsey & Company