Ideal Power's study delved into how range anxiety affects user satisfaction, with 44% of respondents indicating it impacts their overall contentment with their EVs. The main concern for many is the insufficient number of available public charging spots, with 75% experiencing times when all stations were full. Furthermore, while only about 10% had to wait over an hour to charge, most reported an average waiting time of 15 minutes or less.
The majority of EV owners (70%) preferred to charge at home, though a significant segment lacked this option and relied solely on public stations. Meanwhile, despite charging complications, a surprising 42% stated they would pay for a reserved charging spot if needed, willing to spend an average amount of $15 against a backdrop where typical electricity costs are around $0.17 per kilowatt-hour as per U.S. Bureau statistics.
The study also revealed that range anxiety was found more stressful than merely worrying about finding a charging station soon enough—56% compared the stress to other daily concerns unfavorably. Despite these issues, a strong preference persists among owners for electric vehicles, with 91% expressing intent to follow their current path in choosing future vehicles.
Ideal Power's research underscores ongoing challenges within the electric vehicle industry regarding infrastructure and user experience but also reflects robust enthusiasm and loyalty towards EVs among current owners. This points towards the need for improved supportive services and infrastructure development as adoption rates increase.
Source: Quantum