From Our President: Driving Toward an Electric Future

Growing up, my brothers and I spent hours in our wood-paneled basement racing slot cars on our electrified racetrack. I drove a white convertible against my brothers’ blue Corvette Stingray and apple-red Jaguar. I never thought we might all be driving real electric vehicles one day, but that future now seems likely. Rapid advancements in technology, combined with growing consumer interest and favorable government incentives, have reshaped the EV landscape.

A recent nationally representative CR survey (PDF) found, for example, that more than a third of Americans would at least seriously consider buying or leasing an electric-only vehicle today. And the percentage who say they are “definitely” planning to buy an EV has more than tripled since 2020. That’s for good reason: On top of environmental benefits, a CR analysis found that because of lower fuel and maintenance costs, EV owners could save $1,600 to $2,400 for every 15,000 miles they drive.

Meanwhile, policymakers are making EVs more accessible. The recent Inflation Reduction Act included funding to make new and used EVs more affordable and expand the charging infrastructure in the U.S. Getting that effort to scale is the next big challenge, which is why states like California have begun phasing out the sale of new gas vehicles for battery-powered ones.

At CR, we have our eye on improving access to fuel-efficient vehicles and providing you with the tools to choose a car that fits your lifestyle. We’ve tested more than 60 hybrids and EVs to date, and you’ll find even more information in "Why Hybrid Vehicles Are a Smart Choice Right Now." And our Electric Vehicle Savings Finder will help you explore potential rebates, tax credits, and benefits that can lower costs.

Bottom line: EVs are no longer the stuff of toys and imagination. The cars of the future are here.