Summary
The United States has seen growth in electric car sales, but it trails behind other countries in this area. The end of a government tax credit is expected to slow down sales. Analysts say less government support compared to places like China and Europe has affected U.S. progress in electric vehicle (EV) adoption.
Key Facts
- U.S. electric car sales reached 1.2 million last year, five times more than four years ago.
- Battery cars made up 10% of all car sales in the U.S. as of August.
- A tax credit that reduced prices by up to $7,500 ended in September, likely affecting future sales.
- In the UK, nearly 30% of new car sales were electric or hybrid last year; in Europe, about one in five cars sold were electric.
- In China, almost half of all cars sold last year were electric, with higher adoption expected this year.
- Analysts point to less U.S. government support for EVs compared to other countries as a reason for slower adoption.
- President Biden aimed for electric cars to make up half of all U.S. car sales by 2030 and supported this goal with various incentives.
- President Trump opposed certain measures promoting electric vehicles, including the $7,500 tax credit.
