Dispelling Electric Vehicle Myths
What are the three biggest misunderstandings when it comes to electric vehicles in the United States?
Feb 22, 2019
PALO ALTO, Calif. – Electric vehicles (EVs) have been making inroads in America. Last year, 81% more electric vehicles were sold in the United States than in 2017, with EV sales hitting 1 million in October 2018, Forbes reports.
EVs offer environmental benefits and are increasingly available, yet many consumers still express concerns about driving an electric car. Meanwhile some countries are leading the way with EV adoption, such as Norway.
Forbes cites several common myths about EVs:
- EVs have a higher price tag than other vehicles. The upfront cost of an EV is higher than the average internal combustible engine vehicle, but that gap closes significantly when the lifetime costs of owning and operating the vehicle are considered, including tax credits and other buying incentives. Furthermore, the price tag of EVs is likely to fall as technological advancements in batteries make the manufacturing process less costly.
- Public charging options are limited. A 2018 AAA survey found that 63% of consumers didn’t want an EV out of fear that there wouldn’t be enough charge points. State governments, including New York, New Jersey and California, are investing millions into building public charging stations. Meanwhile, more convenience retailers have begun adding charging ports to their forecourts as well.
- Range anxiety. The average EV range is around 190 miles—much less than the traditional gas-powered vehicle’s 400 miles. However, as more charge points are added to the infrastructure, range anxiety should lessen.
More localities, state governments and utilities are attempting to educate consumers on EVs and public charging places to help boost more widespread acceptance of electric vehicles.
