Electric Vehicle Charging Expansion Faces Consumer Concerns

Fri Oct 31 2025 23:38:27 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite the addition of thousands of new electric vehicle chargers across the U.S., many potential buyers still cite range anxiety and high prices as major barriers to adoption, highlighting a disconnect in the EV market.

A recent AP-NORC poll indicates that almost 40% of U.S. adults are hesitant to purchase electric vehicles (EVs) primarily due to concerns about charging infrastructure and cost. While more than 12,000 fast chargers have been added near highways this year, many people still fear insufficient availability of charging stations. Nonprofit leader Daphne Dixon shares insights from her cross-country EV road trips to tackle these misconceptions, emphasizing the continuous growth of charging opportunities. However, despite these advancements, a significant portion of consumers remains focused on the higher upfront costs of EVs, despite their potential for long-term savings.

KENT, Conn. — Concerns about charging infrastructure continue to plague the electric vehicle (EV) market despite an increase in charging stations across the United States. A recent AP-NORC poll shows that about 40% of American adults remain hesitant to purchase EVs, primarily due to worries about charging range and time, alongside the higher sticker price.

This year alone, more than 12,000 fast chargers have been installed along U.S. highways, marking a significant growth trajectory in EV infrastructure. According to an analysis from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, this accounts for one-fifth of the current quick-charging ports available.

Daphne Dixon, a leader of a nonprofit advocating for clean transportation, has undertaken annual road trips in her EV since 2022, focusing on alleviating range anxiety by sharing her experiences and the proliferation of chargers. A lot of people still fear that there’s not enough chargers, but what they’re not seeing is that chargers are being put in every single day, Dixon explains.

However, in certain rural areas, including parts of Connecticut, fast chargers remain scarce. For instance, the one charging station in Kent is described as outdated and nonfunctional. Town officials are optimistic, as Connecticut's government plans to utilize $1.3 million in federal funds to install eight fast chargers in New Milford, just 15 miles away. Advocates argue that while installation is improving, it is often not enough to reassure potential buyers.

Furthermore, despite low maintenance costs and cheaper electricity compared to gas, the high initial costs of EVs continue to deter consumers. With federal incentives for EV purchases recently expired, many potential buyers are now facing a $7,500 increase in costs.

Even with electrical vehicles encompassing 8% of the U.S. market share today, the AP-NORC poll reveals that price remains the leading barrier for many U.S. adults considering an EV purchase.