Tesla EVs ranked worst in annual reliability survey by Consumer Reports

NEW YORK: Electric vehicles (EVs) from Tesla Inc and other brands were among the least reliable vehicles in the United States, Consumer Reports magazine's annual reliability survey showed on Tuesday.

Although EVs and full-size pick up trucks enjoy the hottest demand in the market, they are the "most problematic", the nonprofit organisation that evaluates products and services said.

The report flagged a growing interest in hybrid vehicles, with 36% of prospective buyers considering one for their next car or truck purchase.

Tesla, the world's most valuable automaker, climbed by four spots and was ranked 19th out of the 24 brands. The EV leader continues to have issues with body hardware, steering/suspension, paint and trim, and climate system on its models, the report said.

In October, the Elon Musk-helmed company said it expected to miss its vehicle delivery target this year and cited logistics challenges.

The top-ranked brand overall in the survey was Lexus, and seven of the 10 best-scoring brands were Japanese and Korean.

Among brands owned by Detroit automakers, Lincoln was the only one in the top 10, securing the tenth place.

The magazine's annual survey of new vehicle reliability predicts which cars will give owners fewer or more problems than their competitors, based on data collected. Its scorecard is influential among consumers and industry executives.