Cluttered Garages in the U.S. Impeding Electric Vehicle Adoption, Study Finds

Despite growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs), several obstacles hinder their widespread adoption across the United States. Recent policies from the current administration have prioritized rolling back EV incentives and tightening vehicle pollution regulations, contributing to a decline in sales after a period of steady growth. Major automakers like Genesis and Volvo have also faced challenges as consumer interest in their electric models wanes, prompting reconsideration of their EV strategies.
However, the most significant barrier may be less obvious: the state of American garages. A new study by Telemetry’s Vice President, Sam Abuelsamid, highlights that charging infrastructure concerns remain a key hurdle. While headlines often focus on fast DC chargers, approximately 80% of EV charging occurs at home using AC chargers. Many EV owners, especially those living in single-family homes, rely on nearby electrical outlets for Level 2 charging (240 V), which requires accessible and functional outlets.
Data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory indicates that 42% of homeowners park close enough to a power outlet suitable for EV charging, yet many garages are cluttered with junk and disorganized, making it difficult to set up or efficiently use EV charging stations. This clutter acts as a hidden obstacle, preventing potential EV owners from comfortably installing home chargers and discouraging the switch from gasoline vehicles.
As the market continues to evolve, addressing garage organization and infrastructure readiness could play a crucial role in accelerating EV adoption. Consumers and policymakers alike should consider the importance of accessible and functional home charging setups to support the transition to cleaner transportation.