DETROIT (NEWSnet/AP) — Electric vehicles are less-reliable, on average, than gasoline-powered cars, trucks and SUVs, according to the latest survey by Consumer Reports.

Analysis by CR found EVs from the 2021 through 2023 model years encountered nearly 80% more problems than vehicles propelled by internal combustion engines.

Consumer Reports said EV owners most frequently reported troubles with battery and charging systems, and flaws in how the vehicles’ body panels and interior parts fit.

The magazine and website noted EV manufacturers are learning to construct completely new power systems, and it suggests the overall reliability of electric vehicles should improve.

“This story is really one of growing pains,” said Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports. “It’s a story of just working out the bugs and the kinks of new technology.”

Consumer Reports noted that lingering concerns about reliability may add to issues that give many buyers pause when considering a switch to the new technology.

The Consumer Reports survey also concluded that plug-in hybrids, which can travel on battery power before a gas-electric powertrain takes the wheel, are more problem-prone than fully electric vehicles. Plug-ins contain two separate and complex power systems in which glitches can arise, Fisher said.

Integrated gas-electric hybrid systems are more reliable than gasoline vehicles, largely because they have been in use for about a quarter-century, Fisher said.

Consumer Reports derived its survey data from subscribers who owned EVs from the 2021 through 2023 model years and compared them with other vehicle types.

Consumer Reports says its survey of subscribers, representing 330,000 vehicles, took place in spring and summer 2023.

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