Tesla remains the most popular EV brand
Tesla continues to dominate the EV market, with nearly 40% of survey respondents driving a Tesla. The Tesla Model 3, Model Y, and Model S are the most commonly owned EVs, with 15% of respondents naming the Model 3 as their primary vehicle and another 18% driving either the Model Y or Model S. Tesla’s combination of performance, design, and its expansive Supercharger network has kept it at the forefront of the EV industry.
Not only does Tesla maintain its sales lead, but it also enjoys strong brand loyalty. Nearly 30% of Tesla owners said they wouldn’t even consider buying an EV from another manufacturer. This level of loyalty is unmatched in the survey, underscoring the trust Tesla has built with its drivers.
Rivian: The top-rated EV brand for customer satisfaction
While Tesla is the most popular brand, Rivian stands out as the highest-rated in terms of customer satisfaction. The Rivian R1T, a versatile electric pickup truck, earned top marks in six different categories, including range, performance, safety features, comfort, and reliability. With 91,5% of Rivian R1T drivers satisfied with their vehicle’s range, it’s clear this model has become a favourite for those looking for long-distance capability and rugged design.
The Rivian R1S, the company’s electric SUV, also performed well in the survey, particularly in cargo space and comfort categories. Both the R1T and R1S ranked highest in overall satisfaction, making Rivian a rising star among EV manufacturers, especially for those seeking performance and luxury in their electric vehicles.
Tesla vs. Rivian: Popularity vs. satisfaction
Tesla and Rivian dominate the EV landscape, but in different ways. Tesla continues to win on sales and infrastructure, particularly due to its extensive Supercharger network, which provides reliable, fast charging across the country. This gives Tesla drivers a significant advantage, particularly in terms of public charging convenience. Meanwhile, Rivian excels in specific features, such as range and performance, which resonate more with drivers seeking premium experiences.
For example, while Tesla Model Y owners report 74% satisfaction with their vehicle’s range, Rivian R1T drivers rate their range satisfaction much higher at 91,5%. Rivian also received higher ratings for comfort and safety, making it a strong competitor in the luxury EV market.
Charging infrastructure: Tesla leads the pack
Tesla’s Supercharger network remains a critical advantage for the brand, providing Tesla drivers with a seamless and reliable charging experience. According to the survey, Tesla drivers are significantly more satisfied with their charging experience than those using non-Tesla charging networks, such as Electrify America or ChargePoint. About 45% of non-Tesla drivers cited issues like broken chargers and a lack of charging locations, which can be a frustrating aspect of EV ownership outside of the Tesla ecosystem.
This highlights a key challenge for the broader EV market: public charging infrastructure needs significant improvements to support the growing number of EVs. While Tesla drivers enjoy a robust charging network, other EV owners often face hurdles in accessing reliable public chargers.
Why drivers choose EVs: Environmental protection and cost savings
When it comes to why people choose electric vehicles, the survey shows that environmental concerns remain the top motivator. Over 40% of respondents said their primary reason for buying an EV was to reduce emissions and protect the environment. Cost savings was the second most important factor, cited by 19,2% of respondents, followed by performance and the driving experience.
Interestingly, the survey revealed some demographic differences. Older drivers and early adopters are more likely to prioritise environmental protection, while younger drivers are more focused on cost savings and convenience. These shifting priorities indicate that as the market grows, practical considerations are becoming just as important as environmental ones.
Persistent concerns: Public charging and range anxiety
While most concerns about EVs diminish once people start driving them, two issues remain prevalent: public charging availability and battery range. Battery range was initially a top concern for nearly 70% of new EV drivers, though this concern eased significantly with experience. However, concerns about the availability and reliability of public chargers persist. Non-Tesla EV owners, in particular, are still facing issues with public charging networks, making this one of the key areas for improvement as EV adoption continues to rise.
Despite these challenges, overall satisfaction with EVs remains strong. Nearly 90% of respondents said they are likely to purchase another EV for their next vehicle, with Tesla drivers leading the charge at 94%. The survey suggests that once drivers experience the benefits of an electric vehicle, they are likely to stick with the technology, even if certain aspects, like public charging, still need improvement.
Looking ahead: The future of electric vehicles
Plug In America’s 2024 survey paints a promising picture of the EV market. Tesla remains the most popular brand, driven by its performance and superior charging infrastructure, while Rivian has captured the hearts of those looking for premium features and top-tier performance. However, the survey also highlights the need for continued investment in public charging infrastructure, particularly for non-Tesla drivers.
As the EV market continues to grow, manufacturers will need to focus not only on improving vehicle performance but also on enhancing the charging experience for all drivers. With more drivers expressing satisfaction and intent to buy another EV, 2024 is set to be another significant year for the electric vehicle revolution.
Source: Plug in America
