AUTO

The LA Auto Show Survey on EV Satisfaction Reports Strong Positive Results

December 1, 2023

Results from the 2023 LA Auto Show EV Survey show strong support for EV adoption.
65% of respondents are currently considering an EV purchase, and 72% of current owners reported that their satisfaction increased since owning an EV.
More than 47% of those surveyed were more likely to purchase an EV after more than 17 EV makers announced plans to utilize Tesla’s Supercharging network.

The Los Angeles Auto Show (LA Auto Show), held from November 17 to 26, 2023, was a magnet for car enthusiasts, attracting thousands of spectators. Founded in 1907, the Los Angeles Auto Show has grown to be a globally recognized event, living up to the spirit of innovation and technology that is so characteristic of California.

Reflecting the passion Angelenos have for their cars, the show presents a global platform for showcasing the latest advancements in the automotive industry. The event spanned ten full days during the Thanksgiving period, attracting a diverse audience, from industry influencers and car enthusiasts to families looking for an enriching experience during the holiday season.

Survey Insights Showed Overwhelmingly Positive Results for EV Adoption

In a post-event highlight, the show organizers disclosed the findings of their EV survey, which was conducted among previous attendees of the event. The survey results painted an overwhelmingly positive picture of EVs, underlining the robust health of the current EV marketplace and reflecting consumers’ enthusiastic acceptance of electric mobility.

65% of LA Auto Show Respondents Said That They Were Currently Considering an EV Purchase

The insights gleaned from the 2023 LA Auto Show EV survey shed a revealing light on consumer attitudes toward electric vehicles. A significant 65% of respondents indicated they were considering an EV purchase, demonstrating the widespread interest in this technology.

This high percentage of those considering an EV purchase proves the growing interest in electric vehicles among the mainstream car-buying public. The EV revolution in the United States has moved from the early adopter stage to the early majority stage, as the latest statistics clearly show. According to Atlas Public Policy, EV sales are predicted to achieve a record 9% of all passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2023.

EV Survey Showed That the Availability of Tesla’s Supercharging Network Was a Clear Incentive

Image showcasing Electrify Expo Miami attendees test driving and demo the Tesla Model 3, Model S, Model X, Model Y — _{Electrify Expo Miami attendees test driving and demo the Tesla Model S, 3, X, Y vehicles}

The LA Auto Show survey also revealed that collaborative efforts in the industry, such as the one between Tesla and over 17 other car manufacturers to utilize Tesla’s Supercharging network for EV charging, had a clear impact on consumer decisions, with 47% stating they were more likely to purchase an EV as a result.

While most manufacturers and battery producers are earnestly working towards increasing range and reducing charging times, the availability of charging stations continues to be a concern for potential EV owners. Nevertheless, the EV survey showed that the situation seems to be improving, particularly with Tesla’s decision to open up its charging stations to other brands. This move was met with positive affirmation from many respondents.

Tesla’s decision to open its charging network to other electric vehicles was wise. It will add revenue to Tesla’s charging business and give all non-Tesla EV drivers greater access to charging. A lack of public charging is currently a significant barrier to EV adoption.

Another barrier is charging plug incompatibility, which is now in the standardization process, due to an overwhelming number of companies adopting Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). The two most common DC charging plug standards are the Combined Charging System (CCS), which non-Tesla EVs use, and Tesla’s NACS.

Current EV Owners Show a High Level of Satisfaction

The level of satisfaction among current EV owners is high, with an impressive 72% reporting in the EV survey having increased satisfaction since purchasing their electric vehicle.

This high level of satisfaction reported among respondents clearly indicates the many benefits of EV adoption. Drivers adopt EVs for a variety of reasons. For some, the environmental benefits of EVs, which have zero emissions, allow their owners to feel good about doing their part to fight climate change. For others, the economic benefits are the deciding factor.

Although the average prices of new EVs are still above those of gas-powered vehicles, EVs are a superior investment over the long haul. This is because electricity is cheaper than gas, EVs have fewer moving parts, lower maintenance costs, and other cost-saving benefits.

Owners Responding to the LA Auto Show EV Survey Were Positively Influenced by California’s EV-Specific Rebates

62% of electric vehicle owners responding to the EV survey were positively influenced by California’s EV-specific rebates, tax credits, or incentives, highlighting the significant role of government support in promoting the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies.

California is currently the most EV-friendly state, enjoying the most significant number of EV adopters. More than 25% of all new vehicles sold in the second quarter of 2023 were EVs, according to the CA Energy Commission. California’s state government has been an active proponent of EVs, introducing a series of incentives that include tax credits, rebates, and grants to make electric vehicles more affordable for its residents. Driven by stringent emission standards and a deep-rooted commitment to reducing carbon footprints, such initiatives have spurred the proliferation of EVs in the state.

Furthermore, California’s robust tech industry and affluent consumer base have been significant catalysts in the widespread acceptance and adoption of this emerging technology. As the home of numerous tech giants and startups, California is shaping up to be a key player in the global EV market, paving the way for a more sustainable future of transport. Utilities and organizations such as the California Energy Commission (CEC) play an essential role. The CEC opened applications in 2023 for funding of $38 million in equity-focused incentives to build publicly accessible EV charging stations in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

‘Time-Of-Use’ Electricity Rates Are Not a Problem for California’s EV Owners

Image showcasing Nissan Ariya at EVgo booth at 2023 LA Auto Show — _{Nissan Ariya charging at EVgo Fast Charging booth at 2023 LA Auto Show}

Another topic of discussion for Californian EV owners was the introduction of ‘Time-of-Use’ electricity rates. These variable rates are designed to encourage homeowners to curtail electricity consumption during peak evening hours. Many in the EV community saw this as an incentive to charge their vehicles during periods of lower electricity cost, and it became evident that most EV owners have successfully devised strategies to avoid charging during peak rate hours. This adjustment saves EV owners more money on their fuel costs, making EVs even more affordable than gas-powered cars.

Security at Charging Stations, Performance, Maintenance, and Reliability Remain Concerns for EV Owners

Image showcasing Subaru Solterra at 2023 LA Auto Show — _{Subaru Solterra charging at designated EV charging area in Subaru booth at 2023 LA Auto Show}

Notably, apprehensions surrounding vehicle safety, security at charging stations, performance, maintenance, and reliability were significantly lower among EV owners than anticipated. This presents a stark contrast to those owning traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, who often witness high levels of dissatisfaction due to issues related to servicing, breakdowns, and product recalls. Another notable observation was the diminished anxiety about the resale value of EVs. This could be attributed to the fact that 56% of the EV survey participants had possession of their EVs for less than two years. Nonetheless, even for the 46% who have had their EVs for over three years, resale value remains a comparatively minor concern.

The LA Auto Show Offered Unprecedented Driving and Shopping Opportunities

The exhibition spotlighted various automotive brands, each displaying their unique offerings. Eligible drivers seized the demonstration opportunities to experience the latest models from Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, Mazda, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Volvo at the outdoor setup on Electric Avenue. There were also exclusive indoor vehicle experiences provided by four brands: Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, and Volkswagen. Furthermore, visitors had the opportunity to take downtown LA street test drives in cars from Ford, Subaru, and a recent addition, Tesla, making the event a comprehensive and exciting platform for exploring the latest in gas-powered and electric vehicle technology.

The LA Auto Show was a remarkable platform for current or prospective new car shoppers, offering an unrivaled opportunity to drive the widest selection of electric vehicles. With more than 50 different electrified (EV and PHEV) vehicles showcased at the event, consumers were spoilt for choice.

The auto show facilitated a unique cross-shopping experience, enabling attendees to compare various models and brands directly. This helped them identify their next new electric car, SUV, or truck. Comparisons were not limited to electric vehicles alone; many gas models were also on display, providing a comprehensive understanding of the market offerings. Thus, the LA Auto Show proved invaluable for those intending to make an informed decision on their future vehicle purchase.

Car Purchasing Will Become a Larger Part of Automotive Events, With the Ability to Buy Online

Amazon and Hyundai introduce online vehicle sales with cars driving out of giant amazon box — _{Amazon and Hyundai Partnership Paves the Way for Online Auto Purchases in 2024 (Photo: Hyundai)}

Amazon’s recent partnership with Hyundai will allow Amazon members to purchase Hyundai’s vehicles on the Amazon platform beginning in 2024. Many other OEMs are expected to follow up with their online ordering quickly. With the advent of online car-buying on platforms like Amazon, the auto industry has seen a significant shift in the buying process. Attendees at automotive events such as the LA Auto Show and Electrify Expo can now enjoy a seamless car-buying experience.

After completing a test drive at the event, they can finalize the purchase directly through their Amazon accounts. This innovative approach eliminates the traditional necessity of visiting a dealership, which was primarily needed for test drives. As some dealers also offer vehicle delivery services, customers can now potentially go through the entire purchasing process, from test-driving to delivery, without ever setting foot in a dealership. This digital transformation offers customers unprecedented convenience and propels the industry into a new era of car-buying that syncs perfectly with the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The EV Discovery Center Showed the Latest Electric Innovations

Image showcasing Pebble RV at 2023 LA Auto Show — _{Explore the Future with the Pebble All-Electric RV}

Innovation was an overriding theme of the 2023 LA Auto Show, presenting attendees with a glimpse into the future of automotive technology. The Electrification Discovery Center was a key highlight for those new to electric vehicles (EVs) or considering becoming an EV owner. The center was staffed by bilingual EV ambassadors fluent in Spanish and English, ready to assist visitors on their electrification journey. This educational hub was designed to demystify the complexities surrounding EV ownership.

Attendees gained valuable insights into critical aspects such as driving characteristics, available charging options, enticing purchase incentives, and a broad array of EV products and vehicles on display. This comprehensive educational approach allowed attendees to leave the show with a clearer understanding of the EV landscape and the confidence to embrace the electric revolution.

Offering the EV Discovery Center was a wise decision by the event organizers. Education is a critical component of EV adoption, as the car-buying public learns about the many benefits of electric vehicles. Another essential educational component is allowing drivers to navigate the remaining barriers to EV adoption; for example, the current lack of public charging stations remains a significant barrier. The EV buying and adoption process will become easier as these issues are resolved. These barriers are merely growing pains of the EV revolution and will become a part of history as the nation quickly moves to 100% electric transportation.