HERE-SBD EV Index shows rising electric vehicle interest in Australia and U.S

The HERE-SBD EV Index 2026, a joint study by HERE Technologies and SBD Automotive, reveals shifting consumer sentiment toward electric vehicles (EVs) in Australia and the United States, despite infrastructure challenges.

In Australia, 67 per cent of surveyed drivers are more likely to consider an EV than they were a year ago. This interest is driven by rising fuel costs, improved vehicle range, and better access to home and workplace charging. However, the report notes that Australia’s EV fleet is expanding faster than the public charging network. New South Wales was identified as the leader in EV readiness, while Tasmania and Western Australia ranked lowest.

In the United States, 53 per cent of drivers report being more open to considering an EV compared to the previous year. Among current EV owners, nearly 80 per cent stated that gas prices have influenced their interest in electric mobility. While U.S. EV market share has seen a decline following the expiration of federal tax credits, consumer sentiment is trending upward, with more drivers reporting fewer barriers to adoption and a decreased intention to purchase internal combustion engine vehicles.