New research shows that interest in electric-vehicle purchases has waned. The "Car Shopper Shifts on EVs" study by CDK reveals changed consumer sentiment on the EV market, including that of gas, hybrid and plug-in hybrid drivers. The findings come after the end of the federal EV tax credit on Oct. 1.

CDK's study found in part that gas shoppers are the least likely to purchase an EV in the future and that EV shoppers are loyal to electrification and likely to repurchase. 

Consumer interest in EVs is down across the board for non-EV drivers in 2025, according to the study. Gas drivers reported the lowest likelihood to purchase an EV in the future at just 11%, down sharply from 31% in 2024. Hybrid drivers reported a 35% interest, down from 54%. Plug-in hybrid drivers reported the highest interest level at 54%, down only 4%. 

The study said that one major concern after the end of the tax credit is a drop in leasing. With the old incentive, leasing was attractive to nearly all EV drivers. When asked if future federal breaks would affect their leasing decisions, 77% of shoppers said that they would consider leasing an EV if they got that kind of incentive. 

Other reasons car shoppers are hesitant to enter the EV road include consumers who say EVs don’t “suit their lifestyle.” As has been the case for years, a large part of the aversion results from “range anxiety.” Nearly a third of gas shoppers reported wanting a minimum EV range of 450-plus miles, a stark contrast to the 6% of EV shoppers who reported looking for 450-plus miles of range.

Other issues include a distrust in EV technology and anxiety around charging locations, cost and time commitment.

The good news for auto retailers is the study's finding that dealerships are still at the forefront of EV sales. Only 13% of EV shoppers reported planning to buy entirely online, and 38% said they would complete the entire transaction at the dealership. The highest rate of shoppers, 49%, said they would use a combination of online and dealership shopping.