What’s stopping drivers from buying electric vehicles? Key reasons at a glance

The current mobility evolution normalizing electric vehicles (EVs) is commendable and is enough to compel drivers to buy one, as EVs are environmentally friendly, fun to drive and are widely believed to reduce fuel and energy costs. However, the adoption of electric vehicles is not preferred over combustion engine vehicles, meaning the transition may be stalled.

Let’s delve into what’s really hindering the reception of electric vehicles, even though countless automakers produce a host of eye-catching electrified vehicles, equipped with sophisticated, high-end technology.

Affordability: the biggest obstacle

First things first, keep in mind that electric vehicles definitely cost a fortune, courtesy of the underlying technology, its costs and the meticulous engineering behind it. The costly aspect of low EV uptake is also supported by Ashley Nunes, a senior research associate at Harvard Law School, as she says: “We looked at EV prices in the US over 13 years, and in inflation-adjusted dollars, the average price of an EV is going up, not down.”

Despite a 25% drop in battery prices in 2024, electric vehicles still have higher upfront costs than gasoline vehicles, especially in markets with limited subsidies or high interest rates. According to the data, China leads the affordability of electric vehicles: two-thirds of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sold in 2024 will be priced lower than their internal combustion counterparts. Emerging markets such as Thailand, Brazil and Indonesia are also benefiting from affordable Chinese models.

By contrast, European markets appear unlucky, having recorded a trivial change in EV prices, with significant premiums for BEV SUVs. The United States faces similar challenges, with high prices limiting mass adoption.

Charging infrastructure

Across regions, charging availability is another serious hurdle, because even in countries with rapidly expanding public networks, many drivers are concerned about electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Urban dwellers in apartments and homes without on-street parking face significant barriers to installing home chargers, a common problem from the United States to Europe and parts of Asia.

Meanwhile, public charges are growing, but at an inconsistent pace. Some regions have established extensive fast-charging systems, while others rely on slow chargers or have networks prone to outages.

Even in areas with many chargers, compatibility issues, queues during peak hours and variable prices negatively affect consumer confidence.

Therefore, for most people, the question is not just whether electric vehicles are technologically capable, but whether they can operate comfortably.

Electric Vehicle Performance Issues

In addition to the limited range of electric vehicles, another concern that continues to deter buyers is performance, a key factor when it comes to daily commuting. While drivers in colder climates worry about range degradation in winter, rural and long-distance drivers wonder if charging stops will prolong their trips.

And while modern electric vehicles perform well in most urban travel conditions, suitable options for towing, transporting large families, and heavy hauling are still not plentiful.

In many countries, electric vehicles are often purchased as add-ons rather than replacements. Households purchase an electric vehicle for short trips and keep a separate gasoline vehicle for long-distance or heavy-duty needs. This treatment indicates not only uncertainty but also the limited availability of electric vehicles that satisfy all use cases.

Limited availability

Another barrier to broader adoption of electric vehicles around the world is the mismatch between what consumers want and what they have at their disposal. Buyers looking for large SUVs, minivans or low-cost compact models have limited electric vehicle options, and this is where China stands out by offering an incredible variety, ranging from ultra-compact city cars to low-cost electric SUVs.

Despite these issues, industry analyst projections suggest a correction, as new models planned through 2026 are expected to close many of these gaps. However, as of now, many buyers are struggling to find an electric vehicle that fits their lifestyle, budget, or feature expectations.

Production challenges

EV makers are adjusting their expectations as adoption appears to have slowed, and some major automakers are restricting EV production plans, scaling back partnerships or delaying capacity expansions.

These changes are equally driven by slower demand growth and partly by uncertainties in supply chains, freight network development and regulatory environments.

As automobile unions and policymakers around the world prepare for an electric future, upcoming regulatory rules, especially in Europe, will force manufacturers to expand the offering of affordable electric vehicles.

Electric Vehicle Sales Trends

What is surprising about the panorama is that global sales of electric vehicles are increasing, with varying momentum. Markets such as the United States and Europe have seen slow growth compared to previous rates, while China and emerging markets are accelerating, thanks to lower prices and greater model availability.

This trend was also seen in other regions, where affordability and infrastructure increased the speed of adoption.

Total sales of global electric vehicle manufacturers so far in 2025

What is the future of electric vehicles?

Despite setbacks such as unbearable prices, insufficient charging infrastructure and performance limitations, the global transition to electric vehicles is moving forward and more affordable models are on the horizon.

Competition in battery technology is also intensifying, and infrastructure networks are expanding with each passing year. With these elements combined, the barriers holding back EV drivers will most likely gradually decrease.

For now, the electric vehicle landscape shows uneven progress and is not fully prepared to serve all types of drivers around the world.