Interest in Plug-In Electric Vehicles Growing in Metro Areas

Sales of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) will total more than 1.8 million in the largest 102 U.S. cities between now and 2020, according to a new Pike Research report.

The report, entitled “Electric Vehicle Geographic Forecasts,” acknowledges that sales of PEVs have fallen short of projections to date. However, interest in these vehicles is growing, particularly in cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Ore., and New York City.

“More than a quarter of all annual U.S. PEV sales will be in [those] top five metropolitan areas,” said Dave Hurst, senior research analyst for Pike Research. “But thanks to a combination of positive attitudes toward ‘green’ driving, high fuel prices and state government support, California metropolitan areas will account for more than one in five PEVs sold.”

Growing demand for PEVs is based on two factors: availability of the vehicles and an increase in electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, the report stated.

Texas, for example, has recently seen a dramatic increase in EV charging stations. As part of the report, Pike Research created an “index of positive opinions.” Texas moved from 42nd on the list of the 50 states in 2010 to fourth in 2012 — the largest change of any state.

Pike Research is a part of Navigant’s global energy practice. The research firm provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. Navigant is a global expert services firm that assists clients in creating and protecting value in the face of critical business risks and opportunities.

 http://www.pikeresearch.com/