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Austin South Asian | December 2021
Survey Shows More Americans Are Considering Electric Vehicles
Americans are increasingly looking to electrify their daily on-road travel, according to a new study.
young, environmentally-minded, and want more attainable, fun-todrive EV choices.”
daily driving patterns. However, the survey revealed that 78% of respondents don’t travel more than
The study, conducted by Engine’s CARAVAN on behalf of MINI USA, finds that half of all consumers nationwide expect the American automotive market to be mostly electric within 15 years. What’s more, 80% said they would also consider an electric vehicle (EV) as their primary or secondary vehicle. Those behind the survey say this is a clear sign of progress in the adoption of EVs. “More consumers are shifting their attention to electric vehicles as they become more attainable and compelling to own relative to gaspowered cars,” says Mike Peyton, chief motorer and vice president, MINI of the Americas. “EVs are becoming especially attractive to a new generation -- ’Gen EV’ as we say. These are people who are
Still, range (the distance an EV is able to travel before needing to be charged) remains a concern for many potential owners. Just under half of respondents believe EV range is compatible with their own
50 miles per day on average. With most of today’s electric cars offering a range over 100 miles, EVs are compatible with the driving patterns of a majority of American drivers.
Americans also see EVs as increasingly attainable. Close to half (47%) of all those surveyed believe they have become more affordable and attainable in the last two years. This is also reflected in the 32% of respondents who claimed they’d consider purchasing an electric car within the next five years. Younger consumers hold an especially positive attitude toward EVs, with gen Z and millennial consumers indicating they’re more likely to consider purchasing an EV in five years at 39% and 41%, respectively. They’re also twice as likely to believe that electric cars are fun to drive compared to older generations. Regional differences were also clear in the survey results. Those in western states feel more optimistic about electric overtaking gas-powered vehicles in 15 years, and are also more likely to be reading up on EV.
If you do decide to make the shift, look for a model that’s not only fun to drive, but offers some return on your investment, such as the award-winning MINI Cooper SE, which features a low center of gravity, powerful electric powertrain, dynamic handling and 114mile range. Taking into account the suggested retail price of $29,900, federal EV credits of $7,500 and additional state incentives, the cost can be as low $20,000. Owners may also realize additional savings of up to $1,200 over the course of a year based on driving habits and U.S. national average energy costs. Whether you’re ready to drive an electric vehicle off the lot today or you’re still researching the decision, one thing is clear, EV is making waves on American roadways thanks to innovations that have made them more affordable and fun to drive. (StatePoint)
Struggling To Pay Rent? What You Can Do To Stay In Your Home Millions of Americans who have faced income loss and illness as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are struggling to meet basic expenses, including rent. Recent statistics show that more than 15 million people nationwide live in households that are behind on their rental payments. As federal rental protection ends, these individuals and families are at risk of eviction, according to the Aspen Institute.
Those unable to pay rent or utilities may be able to access rental assistance through the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program. To find as-
sel to fight eviction. To find links to trusted legal assistance in your area, visit americanbar.org and search for “free legal help.”
Help for Renters As part of its efforts to help people stay in their homes, Wells Fargo is supporting initiatives nationwide that mitigate evictions.
“The economic fallout from the pandemic is causing housing instability for far too many renters, including people of color disproportionately affected by this crisis,” says Eileen Fitzgerald, head of housing affordability philanthropy with Wells Fargo. Struggling to pay rent? Fitzgerald offers four actions to take: 1. Talk to your landlord. If you can’t pay rent on time, see if your landlord can work out a payment plan, accept a partial payment or push the due date back a few days. 2. Seek emergency assistance.
have advised on debt management and other money matters. Find a housing counselor by visiting hud. gov/findacounselor.
sistance in your area, visit home. treasury.gov and search “rental assistance.” 3. Get legal help. If you’re worried about eviction, talk with a lawyer experienced in eviction processes in your state. Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal coun-
4. Contact a housing counselor. Housing counselors don’t just work with homeowners. They can help renters in need of assistance, too. During the pandemic, housing counselors have helped renters access emergency rental assistance, understand options for rental relief and eviction protection, as well as
Earlier in 2021, Wells Fargo gave a $4 million grant to The National Foundation for Credit Counseling and the Housing Partnership Network to launch the Renter Advantage program. Renter Advantage enables credit counselors and nonprofit rental property owners to work directly with renters to preserve their housing status and stabilize their financial situation. Through the program, credit counselors provide renters in need of assistance with trusted guidance, including enrolling them in plans to address sustainable rent repayment, debt management and improving long-term financial health. Legal representation can make all
the difference. A Harvard study shows that two-thirds of tenants with legal representation are more likely to avoid an eviction judgment and remain in their home. Harvard researchers also found an estimated 90% of landlords have legal representation, while only 10% of tenants do, putting tenants at a significant disadvantage. This is why Wells Fargo has provided more than $8 million in grants to legal assistance organizations helping keep people housed. People of color, particularly Black and Hispanic tenants, represent 80% of people at risk of eviction, according to the Aspen Institute. Wells Fargo grants are helping close the housing equity gap. “As the pandemic continues to take its toll on Americans’ physical and economic health, connecting people at risk of eviction with resources and options is critical,” says Fitzgerald. “Having a safe, affordable place to call home helps lay the foundation for wellness, dignity, and economic opportunity.” (StatePoint)
