Vermont has seen a significant increase in electric vehicle (EV) registrations, with the total number now standing at 17,939, representing a 41% rise from the previous year, according to data from Drive Electric Vermont and the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. This growth is part of a broader trend where Vermont has doubled its EV fleet in just two years.
Key Statistics
- Total EVs registered: 17,939
- Increase from last year: 5,185 vehicles (41% rise)
- Percentage of new car registrations that were EVs in 2024: over 12%
- Public EV chargers available: over 450, including 92 DC Fast Chargers
Chittenden County leads in EV adoption, with approximately one EV for every 27 residents. The county has registered 6,309 EVs, making it the highest in the state. The top-selling EVs in the fourth quarter of 2024 included the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Nissan Ariya, Toyota RAV4 Prime, Tesla Model Y, and Ford F-150 Lightning.
The growth in EV adoption is not limited to new vehicles. Used EV registrations are also on the rise, with pre-owned EVs making up about 15% of newly registered EVs in the state. Vermont’s transportation sector is also benefiting from this shift, with 18 all-electric school buses, 11 electric transit buses, and 56 electric trucks registered.
Michele Boomhower, director of policy, planning, and intermodal development for the Vermont Department of Transportation, noted that it is becoming increasingly easier for Vermonters to adopt EVs, with more models available, including electric trucks and SUVs with all-wheel drive.
National Context and Future Prospects
While Vermont continues to lead in EV adoption, the national landscape presents a mixed picture. Reports from Detroit suggest that the automotive industry is facing challenges, with several manufacturers delaying or altering their EV plans due to policy uncertainty and lower-than-expected demand. However, forecasts suggest that battery electric vehicles are expected to become the most common powertrain globally within a decade.
Vermont’s proactive stance on EV adoption has also contributed to its success in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. The state was ranked first in the nation by the Natural Resources Defense Council for its efforts in cutting emissions from its transportation system.
For those interested in adopting EVs, various incentives are available. The Drive Electric Vermont website provides details on federal and utility incentives that can save purchasers thousands of dollars on new or used EVs.
