Over 70% Of US Drivers Considering An Electric Vehicle: Consumer Reports

As companies like Tesla Inc TSLA and Nio Inc NIO grow in popularity, so does the public opinion of electric cars. And with traditional auto manufacturers like General Motors Company GM and Ford Motor Company F coming out with compelling electric options, consumers have more choices than ever.

A new survey by Consumer Reports polling 3,392 Americans with driver's licenses shows many are considering an electric vehicle for their next car.

Seventh-eight percent of millennials, 70% Gen X, and 66% of baby boomers are considering an EV at some point in the future. Of those polled, 4% definitely plan to have an EV for their next car, 27% are considering an EV for their next car, and 40% have some interest in getting an EV at some point in the future. About 30% of responders said they have no interest in an electric vehicle whatsoever.

Consumers' biggest concerns were range and charging availability even though 71% said they would do most of their charging at home. Half of the drivers said they would want an EV with at least 300 miles of range. The biggest barrier is for those living in an apartment, as charging is not always available at home, which is the most convenient place to charge.

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Benzinga's Take: The growing demand for EVs isn't surprising. As they come more into the mainstream, people are seeing many benefits of owning an EV including cost savings during ownership and much lower maintenance needs.

Many are still hung up on the idea of charging, even if they do have charging available at home. For most EV owners, it's normal to never charge outside of home, unless going for a long-distance road trip.

Photo courtesy of Tesla.