Electric vehicles have come a long way since their invention in the 1830s. What was once a novelty for the Chicago World’s Fair is now a common sight on major highways. With Tesla now modernizing the industry, EVs are more attainable than ever in the world’s market.
Still, high price tags and a lack of charging stations at pit stops keep many car users from making the switch. Of the over 280 million cars in the U.S, only 2 million are fully electric or hybrid vehicles. So why are so many predictions pointing to EVs in the automotive industry?
Read on as we explore why EVs are instrumental to the future of the industry and the pros and cons of EV ownership in 2022.
Electric Vehicles Pros and Cons
Most conversations on EV ownership start with gas prices and end with charging stations. Yet many fail to explore the true impact of EVs and how initial setbacks to the industry are only temporary issues. A family of EV charging stations already exists at many gas stations along major roads.
With over 200 miles at full charge and portable charging plugs available, the initial fears of EV ownership are quickly rectifying themselves. Still, the benefits of an EV will vary based on location, average mileage, safety features and the make of the car.
Below, we detail the common and uncommon pros, cons, and misconceptions of EV ownership.
Pros
Skipping prices at the pump is the most popular pro for purchasing an electric vehicle. With gas prices always fluctuating, the initial cost of an EV is said to pay itself with the money you save from avoiding gas stations.
The second greatest pro rests in the eco-friendly nature of most EVs. Even hybrids that run on electricity and gas production have more environmentally friendly emissions than a normal gas-powered car. As the world shifts to a more environment-friendly manufacturing perspective, EVs are the natural evolution.
Though many worry about the charging capabilities of cars, a full charge from home can last over 200 miles. This is perfect for community use and short road trips. Utilizing mobile and turbo-charged charging stations can take you even further, with quick charges available in 30 minutes.
Some may worry about the cost of charging your EV at home through an at-home charger or chagrin station. Though a full charge from a depleted battery will take 48 hours to fill, it will only cost you 6$, or a little over ¢10 every kilowatt-hour.
So long as time isn’t a restraint for your commute, the at-home full charge is efficient and cost-effective.
Cons
Tesla is the current king of electric vehicles, servicing high-quality EVs at even higher prices. This makes it hard for other automotive manufacturers to break into the EV world, even if their vehicle can rival a tesla. Though Toyota has earned the #2 spot for EV production and sales, its product output fails to match Tesla.
Like Apple products dominated the early 2000-2010 markets, Tesla’s status as king of EVs creates elitism at a cost. Without true competitors, Tesla can continue to charge an arm and a leg and keep the market inaccessible for the average American.
Additionally, EVs aren’t currently compatible with rural or long-drive use. A fully electric vehicle isn’t feasible for driver-focused commuters in less populated areas if the area does not support local charging stations. Hybrid vehicles can overcome this issue, but overreliance on gas eliminates the benefit of your electric vehicle.
Looking to the Future
Though their numbers are limited in the current market, the potential behind electric vehicles is extensive. Sources suggest within the next ten years; the EV market will jump from 2 million to over 18 million. Though the growth may not rival the current output of gas-powered vehicles, the steady growth hints at a more EV-friendly world.
With major obstacles such as cost and lack of public charging stations taken care of, the electric vehicle market will finally reach more average American consumers. A surge in hybrid and fully electric vehicles will reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve air pollution, and lower the average cost of living. Less money on gas can open wallets to invest in new experiences and opportunities in your new electric vehicles.
It may take a few years for the EV to become a true automotive rival. Still, with growing interest, investments, sales, and visibility, the electric vehicle will soon become a common sight during your next road trip.
Also Read: From Vision to Reality – Jordan’s EV Surge and the Road to Sustainability
Greetings Salman. I appreciate your sentiment on EVs, however there are major technological hurdles that must be overcome before widespread adoption of them internationally. You pointed out the main ones. My my concern is that with the deafening call for “energy transition” we should not overlook an overhaul of the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine). How about an ICE that burns and captures carbon and the only output is water vapor and compressed C)2? https://eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2020/08/new-internal-combustion-engine-design-produces-zero-harmful-emissions/