Electric-car owners in Germany, Austria and Switzerland are more willing to recommend their vehicles than a year ago, but satisfaction varies sharply by brand. Research firm UScale said the recommendation score rose from 33 to 38 points, based on responses from more than 4,000 EV users.
XPeng, Tesla, Porsche and Skoda were among the brands most likely to earn recommendations. The study linked their strong showing to technology, efficient route planners and vehicle efficiency. At the other end, MG, Fiat and Opel performed poorly; Fiat and Opel were the only brands where negative opinions outnumbered satisfied owners. Leapmotor, BYD and Genesis also failed to rank among the most recommended.
The survey suggests that owners’ frustrations increasingly concern software and the digital experience, rather than range alone. Complaints include unreliable charging apps, infotainment systems that freeze, slow software and integrated navigation that struggles to plan longer trips. Some drivers turn to multiple third-party apps to manage journeys and charging. Build quality, perceived quality and ergonomics also affect opinions, while Fiat can partly offset shortcomings with the value and low consumption of its smaller cars.
UScale’s results cover only Germany, Austria and Switzerland, so they may reflect local brand familiarity and market presence. The article notes that this could benefit Skoda and disadvantage Stellantis brands. More broadly, the findings indicate that digital usability and charging-trip planning have become important factors in EV ownership satisfaction.