U.S. consumers’ willingness to buy an electric vehicle varies more by age group than by political leaning, a survey showed. Interest in EVs drops sharply after age 50.

InsideEVs reported on Sept. 26, local time, that a survey released by the Zero Emission Transportation Association (ZETA) found 36 percent of those aged 18 to 34 and 40 percent of those 35 to 49 said they were very likely to buy or lease a new electric vehicle in the future. The figure was 18 percent for those aged 50 to 64 and 4 percent for those 65 and older.

Views of EVs also differed by generation. Among respondents aged 65 and older, 40 percent said they had a somewhat or very negative view of EV technology, compared with 5 percent among those aged 18 to 34. About 75 percent of younger respondents viewed EVs positively.

Differences by political leaning were relatively small. The share saying they were very likely to buy an EV was 26 percent among Democratic-leaning voters and 22 percent among Republican-leaning voters. Still, 42 percent of Republican-leaning respondents said the likelihood of purchase was low, indicating a stronger sceptical stance toward EVs.

The issue is that purchasing power and interest do not align. The outlet said the average age of car buyers is around 50 and older consumers with relatively more assets show low interest in EVs, while younger consumers who are more enthusiastic about EVs may find it difficult to afford new-car prices of $40,000 to $50,000, about 54.32 million to 67.91 million won. That could raise the possibility that the used-EV market emerges as an alternative among younger buyers.

Over the long term, strong interest among younger consumers could help expand the EV market. The analysis said that for interest to translate into actual purchases, it needs support from lower vehicle prices, expanded charging infrastructure and a wider supply of models.