A survey by J.D. Power found that many Canadians remain hesitant to embrace electric vehicles (EVs). The study reveals that 66% of respondents are "very unlikely" or "somewhat unlikely" to consider buying an EV for their next vehicle purchase. This marks a 13% drop in interest compared to the previous year. Key concerns among Canadian consumers include limited driving range per charge (63%), the purchase price of EVs (59%), and the availability of charging stations (55%).
Cara Clairman, CEO of Plug'n Drive, a nonprofit promoting EVs, pointed out that many Canadians experience range anxiety, but for most, it's not a significant issue. She noted that 80% of Canadians drive 50 kilometers or less per day, making EVs suitable for daily commuting. While upfront costs can be high, Clairman mentioned that EV owners save money on maintenance and fuel, even without rebates.
The survey highlights that more Canadians might consider EVs if they had the opportunity to try them out. Over half of respondents had never even sat in an EV, and research indicates that those who rent, borrow, or test drive an EV are more likely to purchase one. Advocates believe that as charging infrastructure expands and EV ranges improve, more Canadians may transition to electric vehicles in the future.
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