Americans have cooled in their attitudes toward EVs with the global trend preferencing hybrids also catching on in the US.
The March Gallup poll reveals a dip from 2024 to 51 per cent of US respondents either owning or considering buying an EV, down from 59 per cent in 2023.
Hybrid vehicle interest has grown to 65 per cent with 8% already owning one.
The demographics behind the poll reveal the same features as have also been reflected around the world, EVs are more popular in higher income and professional classes with a stronger interest among liberal tending voters than conservative.
The poll does not reflect the recent turmoil in the US caused the the tariff policy nor the increased criticism that Tesla has come under due to its controversial CEO Elon Musk.
Democrats and liberals continue to show stronger interest in EVs, according to the poll with 71 per cent of Democrats and 78 per cent of liberals expressing openness to buying one, compared to 31 per cent of Republicans and 32 per cent of conservatives.
Hybrid vehicles have a narrower margin of difference and appeal to both sides of politics on a more equal footing.
Like Australia, the extra range and less concern with charging infrastructure may be the cause of increased interest in hybrids.
Young people and particularly tertiary educated graduates show the strongest preference for EVs.