Here's what’s powering the rise in EV consideration

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3 min read

EV interest is on the rise but with fewer brands on buyer’s shortlist, standing out is more important than ever.

After three years of decline, EV consideration is climbing once again. In our latest consumer sentiment research, 37% of new car buyers said they’d consider an EV a seven-point lift since November and the first sign of positive momentum since mid-2022*. 

So what’s driving the shift? Price drops, broader brand choice, and improving confidence are all helping drive the uplift. But demographics matter, too. EV consideration was significantly higher among buyers planning to spend $30k–$60k (42%), and strongest among millennials (44%) and women (47%)*, segments that often shape the early adoption curve. 

However, one other important finding to note is that while interest is rising, shortlists are tightening. On average, buyers are now considering just 3 EV brands, down from 4.5 six months ago*. It’s a clear sign that consumers are becoming more focused, entering the market with a sharper eye and a stronger sense of what they want. For both OEMs and dealers, this highlights that clear messaging, consistent visibility and strong alignment with buyer values are more important than ever. 

Cadillac Lyriq Sport

 

New EV buyers still dominate purchases 
 

Among existing EV owners, 82% purchased new, with 83% of EV owners intending to buy another EV in the future*. So, what’s the sweet spot for dealers? We found that those with larger budgets remain loyal to new: Over half (58%) of all intended EV buyers spending over $60k will only consider new models*. For OEMs and franchise dealers, this presents a clear opportunity to double down on a price segment full of high-intent, high-value customers. 

That said, used EV interest is growing fast, and dealers should take note. Nearly half of all EV intenders are open to both new and used*, while 16% now say they’d only consider a used EV (up 7 points). Gen Z is leading the shift, with 30% only open to used, while price-sensitive buyers were significantly more likely to consider used or be open to both new and used (83%) compared to the average (62%). 

Want to see the full picture? Get in touch with our team today to see how you can elevate your EV strategy.


SOURCE:
* carsales internal research, EV consumer sentiments Wave 10, May 2025

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