5 biggest differences of EV driving in the US

Today, we’re taking a closer look at five key differences in how electric vehicle (EV) driving is handled in the United States compared to Europe.

1. Charging Cables Are Attached

In Europe, it's common for EV drivers to carry their own charging cable in the trunk and plug it directly into a public charging station. This setup gives them more flexibility, but it also means they have to remember to bring the cable with them.

In the U.S., most public charging stations come with an attached cable. This eliminates the risk of losing or forgetting your cable, making the process much simpler for drivers. However, it also places more responsibility on station owners to maintain the cables properly, ensuring they don’t become tangled, damaged, or a safety hazard.

A well-designed cable management system is essential in the U.S. to keep things organized and safe for everyone using the station.

2. Most Charging Stations Are Privately Owned

In Europe, it's not unusual for local governments to install and manage public charging stations on city streets. These stations may require payment, but the cost is usually standardized and regulated by the municipality.

In contrast, the U.S. has largely seen private companies take the lead in installing and operating charging stations. This means that pricing can vary widely depending on who owns the station — whether it's a mall, a parking garage, or a third-party provider. While this creates a more competitive market, it can also make it harder for drivers to predict costs when planning a trip.

3. Americans Drive EV to Save Money

There are plenty of reasons to switch to an electric vehicle — from environmental concerns to better performance and technology. But in the U.S., the main driver for many people is simply cost savings.

While Europeans often choose EVs for eco-friendly reasons, Americans tend to be more motivated by lower fuel and maintenance costs. That said, the benefits of driving an EV are wide-ranging — you get both financial savings and environmental advantages, no matter what your initial reason was.

4. Americans Prefer Bigger Charging Stations

Except, you know...charging stations

In Europe, smaller, more compact charging stations are preferred to save space, especially in urban areas. In the U.S., however, bigger stations are often favored — not just for visibility, but also to make a statement about sustainability and innovation.

Bigger stations can also offer more room for branding, which is important for companies looking to promote their green initiatives. It seems like the American mindset leans toward “bigger is better,” even when it comes to EV infrastructure.

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 is still catching up when it comes to widespread EV adoption. Europe has been ahead in terms of charging infrastructure, with networks covering cities, highways, and rural areas alike.

In the U.S., while home charging is common, finding public charging stations can still be a challenge, especially outside major cities. This lack of coverage contributes to range anxiety, where drivers worry about running out of power before reaching a charging point.

However, this also means there’s huge potential for growth. With government incentives and rebates becoming more available, the cost of switching to an EV is dropping fast. For property owners, this is a golden opportunity to support the EV revolution and tap into a growing market.

Now that you understand the unique aspects of EV driving in the U.S., consider how you might contribute to the expansion of the charging network. Whether you're a business owner, a homeowner, or just an EV enthusiast, there are many ways to get involved and help shape the future of sustainable transportation.