New survey suggests only 5% of Americans actually want to drive an EV

A new survey has suggested that just five percent of Americans would pick an EV for their next car, compared to more than 60 percent who plan on getting a gas-powered vehicle.

The study, carried out by Deloitte, analysed 2025 global automotive trends, surveying 30,000 motorists in 30 countries. 

The annual study is designed to provide useful insight to carmakers and other businesses. 

And it looks as though it could be an interesting year for EV makers.

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The study suggests most Americans aren’t keen on choosing an EV

In recent years, EVs have enjoyed a surge in popularity – so much so that the Tesla Model Y was the best-selling car in the world in 2023, with more than 1.15 million sales.

Many motorists have been quick to praise the benefits of going all-electric, which includes lower bills, with one Tesla owner questioning why anyone would ever choose a gas-powered car. 

However, it seems that the majority of US motorists are less keen when it comes to making the switch.

When Deloitte asked their preference for engine type in their next vehicle, a paltry five percent of Americans chose EV. 

Slightly ahead at six percent was plug-in-hybrid electric, while hybrid electric was the second most popular option at 20 percent.

The clear favorite for the Americans asked was gasoline or diesel at 62 percent. 

Rounding out the survey were the two percent who opted for ‘other’ and five percent who weren’t quite sure.

The results differed widely between countries

America was the least likely place for someone to choose an all-electric, after Japan where just three percent said they’d go electric for their next motor. 

Hybrid electric was a more popular choice in Japan, though, with 35 percent saying it would be their preferred engine. 

The county most open to choosing an EV for their next car was China, with 27 percent of participants going for battery electric – but this was still lower than the 38 percent who chose gas/diesel. 

Overall, gas-powered vehicles topped 50 percent in four countries – the US, India, Southeast Asia, and Germany, with 62 percent, 54 percent, 53 percent, and 53 percent of the votes respectively. 

The UK was slightly behind this, with 47 percent of participants choosing gas/diesel-powered engines. 

Only eight percent of Brits are eyeing up an EV for their next car, while 24 percent are considering a hybrid electric.