U.S. EV Public Charging Satisfaction Improves in 2026

U.S. EV Public Charging Experience Improves

On August 12, JD Power reported in its 2026 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Public Charging Study that the public charging experience in the United States continues to improve despite slower electric vehicle market growth. The study surveyed 6,594 battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) owners between January and June 2026. Satisfaction with DC fast charging increased 12 points year over year to 666, while failed charging visits fell to their lowest level recorded in the study. Although slow charging speed remained the most common problem for both DC fast and Level 2 chargers, the issue has improved significantly for DC fast charging in recent quarters.

DC Fast Charging Shows Stronger Satisfaction Gains

The strongest improvements in the DC fast-charging experience were recorded in charger availability, safety and charging cost, indicating that several factors beyond charging speed are becoming more competitive. In contrast, satisfaction with Level 2 charging declined 12 points to 595. JD Power attributed that decline largely to lower scores for ease of payment and charging. The contrasting results suggest that while DC fast-charging networks are addressing several longstanding customer concerns, Level 2 infrastructure still faces challenges related to the overall user experience. These differences are particularly important as charging expectations continue to evolve among electric vehicle owners.

OEM-Backed Networks Raise Charging Expectations

Newer OEM-backed DC fast-charging networks are also raising customer expectations, particularly in charging speed, availability and ease of use. The industry non-charge visit rate declined to 12% from 14% a year earlier, showing that fewer charging visits ended without a successful charging session. Location also remains an important factor in customer satisfaction. The study found that satisfaction is highest at chargers located at hotels, gas stations and convenience stores, and restaurants. These findings highlight the importance of combining reliable equipment with convenient locations and a straightforward charging experience as public charging networks expand.

IONNA Leads DC Fast-Charging Network Rankings

Among the networks evaluated, IONNA ranked highest for DC fast-charger satisfaction with a score of 807. Mercedes-Benz Charging Network followed with 797, while Rivian Adventure Network recorded 755. The rankings reinforce the growing influence of newer charging networks backed by vehicle manufacturers and automotive industry partners. Overall, the 2026 results indicate that public charging quality is improving in several critical areas, even as the broader EV market experiences slower growth. Continued progress in reliability, availability, cost, payment and charging speed will remain important for maintaining consumer confidence in public charging infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the 2026 U.S. EV charging study find?
The study found that public charging satisfaction improved significantly for DC fast chargers, despite slower overall electric vehicle market growth in the United States. Satisfaction with DC fast charging increased 12 points year over year to 666, while failed charging visits reached their lowest level recorded in the study. Charger availability, safety and charging cost were among the areas showing the strongest gains. However, Level 2 charging satisfaction declined 12 points to 595, primarily because of lower scores for ease of payment and charging.