Electric vehicles are gaining ground, but challenges abound

Earlier this year, electric vehicles accounted for over 5 percent of the U.S. auto market for the first time, a mark that Bloomberg calls a critical tipping point for mass adoption of new technologies.

Tesla now makes the most popular car model in Germany, a country with a deep automaking history and identity. China’s along for the ride as well, having passed 5 percent years ago and on track for 20 percent by 2025.

Many factors are fueling sales, including high gas prices. But huge challenges remain, including installing thousands more charging stations; transitioning other vehicles such as semi trucks, airplanes, and cargo ships; and swaying consumers outside the early-adopter set.