JD Power noted that newer automakers like Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, and Polestar deliver levels of innovation far exceeding that of legacy brands. However, small sample sizes and state registration restrictions prohibit them from being ranked in the study. Innovation has come at the expense of a positive user experience. With the exception of Polestar, these newer manufacturers are still seeing a high level of average problems with advanced technologies.
Delving deeper into specific technologies, owners found biometric tech to be undesirable. Eye-movement technologies are less problematic but more annoying than tech such as facial recognition. Reverse automatic emergency braking, safe exit assist, and automatic emergency steering all declined in usage over the last year.
On a positive note, plug-and-charge technology such as that offered by EVgo is much appreciated by owners, with three-fourths of respondents saying they want it on their next vehicle. This tech, which automatically initiates charging and billing, has just six problems per 100 vehicles and a high satisfaction score of 8.89 out of 10.
