Study Calls for Continuing Federal Support for EVs

A report by the National Research Council urges continued government aid to help build a U.S. market for electric and plug-in vehicles.

The NRC report, which was mandated by Congress, confirms the obvious: EVs aren't popular because they cost too much, lack the range of a gasoline-powered vehicle and aren't well understood by most consumers. It points out that plug-ins offer about the same range as conventional cars.

NRC says consumers' homes are by far the most important location for an EV charging infrastructure, followed by the workplace. The report suggests governments stop subsidizing public charger installations until research clarifies how much infrastructure is needed and where it should go.

The report proposes that government tax breaks on electrified vehicles be converted into rebates available directly through dealerships.

The federal government also could help the EV and plug-in market by mandating standard plugs and a universally accepted method of paying for charging service, according to the study. NRC urges public-service advertising and continued funding to develop cheaper and more powerful batteries.