More people are ready, willing and able to buy and drive electric cars than previously believed, say UC Davis researchers. Contrary to auto industry pundits, who have envisioned the market as premium-priced longer-range electric cars for environmentally motivated consumers, cheaper cars that run 50 to 100 miles between recharges serve most people's commuting, shopping and chauffeuring needs. Based on a survey of 100 current electric vehicle owners and on in-depth interviews with an additional 50 households, the researchers also found that adapting to electric cars requires little change in travel for households with two or more cars. "In our studies, people are learning for the first time how little driving range they need on a daily basis," says postdoctoral researcher Kenneth Kurani. Part of an ongoing three-year study, the findings were presented at a national meeting this month.