LeasePlan USA has recently released the results of its first USA EV Readiness Index, a comprehensive analysis of the preparedness of all 50 states and the District of Columbia for electric vehicle transition. The USA index ranks states on a weighted scale based on five unique factors, including favorable state legislation and incentives, EV penetration, charger to vehicle ratio, public charger availability and climate suitability.
LeasePlan USA assessed the balance of EVs and public chargers instead of evaluating cost of charging and cost parity between battery electric vehicles and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Forecasts for this cost equilibrium shorten yearly and climate has proven to be an increasingly important factor in the EV transition. Also, this study takes into consideration the driver experience as LeasePlan USA has incorporated their learnings across many electric fleet drivers.
As part of the study, LeasePlan calculated a readiness score by state. In 2022, data showed that Nevada, Mississippi and Hawaii are the best prepared states for electric vehicle transition. All three states have a welcoming climate for EVs, with Nevada and Mississippi also providing a reasonable amount of public charging stations whereas Hawaii already has begun integrating EVs into its overall vehicle market.
This first edition of the USA EV Readiness Index also includes an overview of electric mobility in 2022, anticipated EVs coming to market, available and soon-to-be available truck and heavy-duty EV models, and actionable insights into each market’s EV readiness.
USA EV Readiness key findings:
No state ranked as fully EV ready
No states are ranked in the top bracket for readiness, and the top three states crept into the second rating bracket of EV accepted. States that ranked highest are better prepared than others while in lower ranked states drivers might encounter more challenges. This study shows that there is ample room for improvement across the Unites States. These rankings incorporate the fluidity of the transition to electric vehicles and growth of the market and will shift as the EV landscape evolves.
Climate suitability is crucial to EV readiness
Climate suitability plays a significant role in determining EV readiness. Cold environments are not yet ideal for EV operation due to the impact low temperatures have on driving range, charging speed and duration. On average, states that experience colder weather need to take additional measures in their EV transition efforts to secure a successful transition. European countries like Norway have proven that cold climates are not impossible to overcome, but proactive measures must be taken to ensure EV readiness.
Public charging infrastructure lags
For the purpose of this index, only public charging was assessed. While it’s promising to see federal government commitments, such as the planned $7.5 billion to accelerate EV adoption from the Infrastructure Bill, developing this network of chargers will likely take years and make public-only charging solutions unfavorable in the near term.
