5 biggest differences of EV driving in the US

Here’s a closer look at five key differences between electric vehicle driving in the United States and Europe.

1. Charging Cables Are Attached

In Europe, it's common for EV drivers to carry their own charging cable in the trunk of their car and plug it directly into a public charging station. This approach gives them more flexibility, especially when traveling to different locations with varying charging standards.

In contrast, most charging stations in the U.S. come with a permanently attached cable. This design eliminates the risk of losing or damaging your own cable and ensures that every driver has access to a working connection without needing to bring anything extra.

While this system is convenient for users, it also means that station operators have to be more careful about maintaining the cables. A well-designed cable management system is essential to avoid tripping hazards and damage from improper storage.

2. Most Charging Stations Are Privately Owned

In many European countries, cities often install and maintain public charging stations on streets and in neighborhoods. These are typically government-run, which helps keep pricing consistent and accessible for all residents.

In the U.S., private ownership of charging stations is far more common. This means that the cost of charging can vary widely depending on who owns the station. While this allows for innovation and competition, it can also create inconsistencies in pricing and availability.

3. Americans Drive EV to Save Money

There are many reasons people choose electric vehicles—environmental concerns, tech innovation, and a smoother driving experience are just a few. But in the U.S., the main motivation for many drivers is simply cost savings.

While Europeans often prioritize environmental impact, Americans tend to focus on the financial benefits of driving an EV, such as lower fuel and maintenance costs. The good news? Whether you’re eco-conscious or budget-minded, you still enjoy all the perks of electric driving.

4. Americans Prefer Larger Charging Stations

Except, you know...charging stations

In Europe, smaller, more compact charging stations are often preferred to save space, especially in urban areas. In the U.S., however, larger stations are more common and sometimes even preferred.

This could be due to the fact that there are fewer stations available, so making them more visible and noticeable makes sense. It also allows for more branding opportunities, helping companies promote their green initiatives more effectively.

And let’s face it—America has always had a soft spot for “bigger is better.”

5. The U.S. Is Still New to the EV Market

Since we've already established the "pumpkins = charging stations" analogy...

Even though companies like Tesla are based in the U.S., the country still lags behind Europe in terms of EV infrastructure and adoption. In Europe, you can find charging stations almost everywhere, making long trips easier and more reliable.

In the U.S., finding a public charging station can still be a challenge, especially outside major cities. While most people charge at home, true EV adoption requires confidence in the ability to travel further than your car’s range allows. This is what’s known as “range anxiety.”

But here’s the good news: the U.S. has a huge opportunity to grow. With incentives, rebates, and increasing demand, the future of EVs looks bright—and there’s room for everyone to get involved in building the next generation of charging networks.

Now that you understand how EV driving differs in the U.S., consider how you can help expand the charging network. Whether you're a property owner, business, or individual, there are plenty of ways to contribute and benefit from the growing EV market.