Critical Shifts:
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Satisfaction is declining for portable chargers: Overall satisfaction scores for both Level 1 and Level 2 portable chargers dropped year-over-year, while satisfaction for Level 2 permanently mounted chargers remained steady and significantly higher (733 out of 1,000).
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Tesla continues to lead the market: For the sixth consecutive year, Tesla ranked highest in the Level 2 permanently mounted charging station segment with a score of 771, followed by Emporia (761) and ClipperCreek (760).
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A major gap in dealer education exists: Despite rising charging costs, only about 20% of EV owners reported receiving education or advice on home charging from their dealership during the purchase process.
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Home charging satisfaction drives brand loyalty: J.D. Power emphasizes that the home charging experience is a critical factor in influencing future brand loyalty, and that better industry support regarding utility incentives and charging schedules is needed to help owners manage costs.
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According to the JD Power 2026 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Home Charging Study, overall satisfaction among owners of Level 1 portable chargers is 569 (on a 1,000-point scale), down 12 points from a year ago, while the overall satisfaction score for use of Level 2 portable chargers is 710, 4 points lower than a year ago. Owner satisfaction with Level 2 permanently mounted home chargers holds steady at 733.
While the study examines the home charging experience of EV owners across all three charger segments, only the Level 2 permanently mounted charging station segment is award-eligible this year.
Tesla ranks highest among Level 2 permanently mounted charging stations for a sixth consecutive year, with a score of 771. Emporia (761) ranks second and ClipperCreek (760) ranks third.
“Charging costs for EV owners are climbing, and there are several options out there for managing those costs through utility incentive programs and optimization of charging schedules during off-peak hours, yet only about 20% of owners say they received any kind of education or advice on home charging from their purchasing dealer,” said Brent Gruber, executive director of the EV practice at JD Power. “Automakers, dealers and utility companies all have a role in helping owners understand options like utility incentives, programs and upgrading to Level 2 permanently mounted chargers, which have more advanced options for scheduling charging windows to maximize cost savings. By providing better guidance and support, the EV ecosystem can help more owners save money, make more efficient charging choices and enjoy a more satisfying home charging experience. For manufacturers, maximizing home charging satisfaction is crucial because the data shows that it’s instrumental in influencing future brand loyalty.”
