More than 50 models of electric vehicles on sale — and more coming.

Automakers are providing our customers with record-breaking choice in energy-efficient models, while also providing even safer, more environmentally friendly, affordable vehicles to Americans. Electric vehicles (EVs) are an important part of our mission, both in the U.S. and around the world.

Consumers have more choice in electric vehicles. As recently as 2012, there were only a handful of EVs on sale. Today, there are 53 electric vehicles on sale, including 30 battery electric, 19 plug-in hybrid electric and 3 fuel cell electric vehicles, with more models in development.

Today, consumers can buy EVs of all different shapes and sizes — small cars, large cars, SUVs and minivans, in 2WD or AWD, with shorter and longer ranges, from economy vehicles to luxury models and everything in between.

There are three types of plug-in electric vehicles on sale today.

Battery Electric Vehicles
A battery electric vehicle (BEV) is powered solely by its battery. This all-electric automobile can achieve an equivalency of 80 MPG or much more, according to www.fueleconomy.gov.

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) can operate on its battery power for a set range, often the distance of a daily commute, and then the gas engine seamlessly takes over until the battery can be recharged.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles
A fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) uses hydrogen to power its electric motor.

You can have it all.
Electric vehicles have something attractive for everyone:

  • powerful acceleration and precise handling
  • no more trips to gas stations
  • saving gas money by driving with low cost electricity
  • reduced maintenance costs
  • reduced emissions
  • vehicles large enough for families

Automakers have done extensive market research to learn more about consumers, and we find that consumers like the idea of helping the environment (38%) and not paying for gas (29%). However, more people say they would buy an EV than actually do.

Despite more electric vehicle models, sales remain modest.

While sales are rising, nationwide new vehicle sales of battery electric and plug-in hybrid electric autos were about 1% in 2017.

That is less than 200,000 vehicles out of 17 million sold.

Ultimately, people shopping for a car owe it to themselves to talk to someone who drives electric and to test drive an electric vehicle, because there is likely an electric vehicle that meets their needs and may end up on their short list.