- 77% of Americans are willing to wait up to 40 minutes for an 80% charge
- Current EVs already meet that charging timeframe
- Consumers prefer dedicated EV charging stations over gas stations with chargers
Long charging times and limited public charging stations have been identified as major obstacles to EV adoption in numerous studies. However, a recent survey conducted by Deloitte suggests a shift in consumer attitudes.
The survey, which included around 31,000 responses from thirty countries, revealed that U.S. consumers may be more open to longer charge times compared to previous beliefs. A significant 77% of U.S. respondents stated they are willing to wait up to 40 minutes to charge their EV from zero to 80%, a duration well within the capabilities of many current EV fast-charging systems.
Gravity EV charging center in New York City
Although fast-charging time was highlighted as a crucial aspect of the EV charging process, a majority of respondents were comfortable waiting between 21-40 minutes for a charge. The survey also revealed that 44% of participants preferred dedicated EV charging stations over gas stations with chargers.
The study emphasized that many EV drivers do not require frequent fast charging, with 79% of U.S. respondents planning to charge their EVs at home. Despite this, 58% of the survey sample reported not having access to a charger, indicating a need for more charging infrastructure. Additionally, 35% of U.S. consumers stated they only drive more than 60 miles from home once or twice a month.
General Motors and ChargePoint EV fast charging
These findings contrast previous Deloitte studies that suggested EV charge times and costs were deterring factors for consumers. However, the current survey indicates that EVs are exceeding consumer expectations, with a growing number of models offering shorter road-trip charge times. Companies like Toyota are even exploring technologies, such as solid-state batteries, that could enable 10-minute charge times in the near future.