Toronto, Ontario -- U.S. drivers continue to favour gasoline-powered vehicles as concerns about cost, charging and value slow the shift to electric cars, according to a new study from Deloitte.
Deloitte’s 2026 Global Automotive Consumer Study found interest in internal combustion engine vehicles has been flat in the United States, even as automakers expand their electric offerings.
About 61% of U.S. respondents say they plan to buy a gas or diesel vehicle next, unchanged from the previous year. Interest in fully electric vehicles rose only slightly, to seven%.
Hybrids continue to attract more interest than battery-electric vehicles. About 25% of respondents say they are considering a hybrid for their next purchase, suggesting many drivers want better fuel efficiency without relying entirely on charging infrastructure.
Cost remains a major barrier to wider EV adoption. Nearly half of respondents, 47%, say driving range is their biggest concern. Another 44% cite charging time, while 40% point to the overall cost of electric vehicles. Many respondents also say they do not have access to home charging, which adds to both cost and inconvenience.
Lower fuel costs remain the top reason drivers say they would consider switching to an electric vehicle. However, Deloitte says those savings are often offset by higher purchase prices and uncertainty around charging, particularly for buyers who cannot install a charger at home.
The study also shows weakening brand loyalty. More than 50% of U.S. consumers say they expect to switch brands for their next vehicle. Quality, performance and price are the main reasons, rather than long-term brand attachment.
Interest in connected features continues to grow. More than 50% of respondents say regular software updates could convince them to keep a vehicle longer, especially if those updates improve safety, security or performance.
In Canada, recent reports suggest interest in EV adoption rates are also waning. Despite this, the relative complexity of repairs means the amount of time spent working on EVs is on the rise.
According to Mitchell International data, battery electric vehicles accounted for 4.91 % of repairable collision claims nationwide in late 2025, up 24.3% year-over-year and reaching a record share of overall claims as BEV registrations rise in certain regions like British Columbia and Quebec.
