People Still Want Gas Cars Over Hybrids and EVs, Study Says

Even with the increased focus on hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs), many people still favor conventional gas-powered automobiles. According to a recent KPMG survey, 38% of participants choose a normal gas engine when buying a car. EVs trailed behind with only 21 percent, while hybrids came in close behind at 34 percent. Furthermore, three percent were content to only have a car and five percent were unsure.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census demographics, this survey, which was carried out in April with a sample of 1,100 persons, indicates a considerable preference for internal combustion engine (ICE) automobiles. Despite being modest in comparison to the 335 million people living in the United States, the sample size is representative of market trends.

The preference for gas cars is not surprising. Despite some first-quarter concerns about EV sales, mainly due to Tesla’s volatility, other brands have maintained steady sales. This raises the question: Are consumers choosing EVs because they prefer them, or because automakers are pushing them?

In recent years, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) announced plans to transition to fully electric lineups by 2030, 2035, or even 2040. However, some, like GM and Ford, have started to backtrack, reintroducing hybrids. Meanwhile, Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru have collaborated to develop a new ICE, demonstrating that gas engines are still in demand.

The KPMG study highlights a disconnect between consumers and automakers. In regions like the Midwest and Northeast, gas-only cars remain the top choice for 40 and 37 percent of respondents, respectively. On the West Coast, there is a stronger preference for EVs and hybrids. Additionally, 60 percent of consumers want charging times of no more than 20 minutes for an 80-percent charge, a sentiment not entirely shared by industry executives.

KPMG U.S. Energy Sector Leader Angie Gildea emphasizes that consumers are comfortable with familiar technology, whether renewables or fossil fuels. She stresses the need for education and cost reductions to encourage broader adoption of EVs. Without federal tax breaks and local incentives, EVs remain financially out of reach for many, even if they are interested in making the switch.