EV No More: 46% of Owners Plan on Switching Back to ICE Cars

Forty-six percent of current electric vehicle (EV) US-based owners told McKinsey & Co.’s Mobility Consumer Global Survey they planned on switching back to an internal combustion engine (ICE) car. Over on Reddit, there are active threads like this one where EV owners share their stories. Let’s dig into some of the reasons why people are considering the switch:

1. Charging Infrastructure Challenges: The number one reason people gave McKinsey for getting rid of their EV is the terrible state of EV charging away from home. Long wait times, malfunctioning chargers, and limited availability, especially in rural or remote areas, make the experience less convenient compared to fueling an ICE vehicle. Home charging is also a barrier for those without access to dedicated parking or Level 2 chargers.
   
   
2. Range Anxiety: Despite advancements in EV range, some owners still worry about running out of charge, particularly during long trips or in areas with sparse charging options. This concern can discourage EV adoption and retention, especially for drivers accustomed to the convenience of widespread gas stations.
   
   
3. Cost Considerations: While EVs generally have lower operating costs, their upfront price and concerns about battery replacement can deter long-term ownership. Additionally, specialized service centers and parts for EVs are less common than for ICE vehicles, increasing maintenance challenges in some regions.
   
   
4. Driving and Travel Needs: EVs dont’ meet the demands of certain lifestyles, such as frequent long-distance driving, towing, or travel to remote areas where charging options are limited. This mismatch between needs and capabilities can lead to a return to ICE vehicles.
   
   
5. Perception and Practicality: Some drivers feel that EVs require compromises in convenience or reliability, especially when transitioning from a well-established ICE ecosystem to an evolving EV landscape.
   

Surveys have shown varying dissatisfaction levels, with about 18-46% of EV owners in different studies expressing interest in returning to ICE vehicles, particularly in regions like the U.S., where driving patterns and infrastructure limitations exacerbate these concerns.

THE TAKEAWAY

Addressing these challenges through improved infrastructure, more affordable EVs, and increased consumer education are critical factors in reducing the number of people switching back to ICE vehicles and ensuring a clean future for all of us.

Sources: EV Car Answers Editors, , McKinsey & Co., ChatGPT