High gas prices aren't the only reason people want electric cars. But the switch isn't easy

By Mark Brodie
Published: Tuesday, April 12, 2022 - 12:12pm
Updated: Tuesday, April 12, 2022 - 1:11pm

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Ford Mustang Mach-E4X electric SUV
Tim Agne/KJZZ
A Ford Mustang Mach-E4X electric SUV in Tempe in May 2021.

Gas prices in Arizona are nearly 50 cents higher than the national average, according to AAA, hovering at almost $4.60 for a gallon of regular unleaded.

That, along with an increase in marketing — including during the Super Bowl — has led to more consumer demand for electric vehicles.

Ed Kim has been compiling some of that data, including the finding that SUV owners are more open to having electric or hybrid versions of their vehicles than they are to downsizing to a smaller gas-powered car.

Kim is president and chief analyst of Auto Pacific, an automotive research and consulting firm.

The Show spoke with Kim and asked: With gas prices high and lots of ads for EV’s, is the interest people may have in them matched by their purchases?

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