5 biggest differences of EV driving in the US

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

1. Charging Cables Are Attached in the U.S., But Not in Europe

In Europe, EV drivers typically bring their own charging cable and plug it directly into public stations. This setup allows for flexibility, but also means you have to carry your own cable and be prepared for different connector types.

By contrast, in the U.S., most public charging stations come with an attached cable. This eliminates the need to carry your own and reduces the risk of theft or loss. However, station operators must ensure that the cables are properly managed to avoid tripping hazards or damage.

For users, this is a convenience factor, while for providers, it adds a layer of maintenance responsibility. A good cable management system is essential to keep things running smoothly.

2. Charging Stations Are Mostly Privately Owned in the U.S.

In Europe, many cities provide publicly owned charging stations, often located on streets or in residential areas. These are usually government-run, which helps standardize pricing and accessibility.

In the U.S., private ownership dominates. Most stations are run by companies, shopping centers, or individual property owners. This leads to more variability in pricing and availability, though some cities are beginning to explore public options as well.

3. Americans Drive EV to Save Money, While Europeans Care More About the Environment

There are plenty of reasons to go electric—environmental impact, performance, innovation, and cost savings, among others.

In Europe, environmental concerns are often the main driver for switching to EVs. In the U.S., however, cost savings are a bigger motivator. Gas prices and fuel efficiency make EVs an attractive option for budget-conscious drivers.

Regardless of your reason, the benefits of EVs are clear. Whether you're eco-conscious or just looking to save money, you still get a cleaner, more efficient, and often cheaper way to drive.

4. American Charging Stations Tend to Be Bigger

Except, you know...charging stations

In Europe, smaller, more compact charging stations are preferred to save space, especially in urban areas. They’re designed to blend in rather than stand out.

The U.S. tends to favor larger, more visible stations. This could be due to the lower density of charging infrastructure, making visibility important for drivers. It also offers more room for branding and promoting green initiatives.

So, even if it's not always practical, the American approach still reflects that age-old belief: 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 the U.S. is home to companies like Tesla, it's still catching up to Europe in terms of EV infrastructure and adoption.

Europe has a well-established network of charging stations, making it easier for drivers to plan trips without range anxiety. In the U.S., while home charging is common, finding public stations can still be a challenge.

This gap presents a huge opportunity for growth. With incentives, rebates, and increasing demand, the U.S. is on the cusp of a major shift toward electric mobility. Property owners who install charging stations early can tap into this growing market.

Whether you're a driver, a business owner, or just curious about the future of transportation, now is a great time to get involved in the EV movement.