The willingness to buy electric vehicles in Europe and the United States is fading

The willingness to buy electric vehicles in Europe and the United States is fading

A survey released by Shell on 17 June indicates that motorists are increasingly reluctant to switch from petrol vehicles to electric cars, with this trend being more pronounced in Europe than in the United States.

The ‘2025 Shell Recharge Driver Survey’ examined the views of over 15,000 drivers across Europe, the US and China. The findings reveal a widening divide in attitudes towards electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Existing EV drivers report increased confidence and satisfaction, while petrol car drivers show stagnating or declining interest in EVs.

The survey highlights a significant boost in confidence among current EV owners. Globally, 61% of EV drivers reported reduced range anxiety compared to a year prior, while nearly three-quarters (72%) noted improvements in the selection and availability of public charging points.

However, the study also found declining interest in EVs among conventional vehicle drivers. In the United States, this interest has dipped slightly (31% in 2025 versus 34% in 2024), while in Europe the decline is more pronounced (41% in 2025 versus 48% in 2024).

Cost remains the primary barrier to EV adoption, particularly in Europe where 43% of non-EV drivers cite price as their foremost concern. According to the International Energy Agency’s Global EV Outlook 2025 report, vehicle prices in Europe remain elevated – despite falling battery costs – while high energy costs and broader economic pressures may be dampening consumer purchasing intentions.