Electric cars are no more the future; they are already thriving among many developed countries of the world. Cars running on gasoline still dominate the market, but a revolution is underway. According to several car manufacturers and influential businesspersons, electric cars may entirely replace conventional cars by 2030. There is no doubt that electric cars incorporate new and improved technology, yet many among us beg to differ. Let us discuss some common misconceptions about electric cars:
5 Misconceptions about Electric Cars
Too Expensive
When you look at the price tag of cars like Tesla Model 3 and BMW i3, electric cars will surely seem too far off your budget. Most luxury electric cars start from $30,000; however, many conventional luxury models cost even more than $100,000. In reality, there are affordable versions for both kinds of cars. Many small-scale Chinese companies have manufactured electric automobiles that are exceedingly cheap. They might lack the quality and extravagant features offered by big names in the industry, yet they provide good value for what they are worth. Moreover, the cost of electric cars is expected to drop as the competition increases and they become more mainstream.
High Operating and Maintaining Costs
An electric car consumes about $500 worth of electricity to complete 15,000 miles, which is less than 10% of the cost of fuel utilized by a conventional car for the same mileage. The built-in technology of electric cars is simpler; it consists of lesser spare parts than conventional cars and is free of frivolities like a regular oil change. As a result, you will make fewer rounds to the mechanic each year and save a good deal of money.
Lack of Fuel Efficiency and Speed
Conventional cars only make use of 20% of the energy released by gas combustion, whereas the energy conversion rate of electric cars surpasses 75%. This means there is less wastage of fuel and your car can move faster due to the elevated torque. Also, you can fully charge your electric car at home within 4 to 5 hours. There might not be sufficient recharge stations in your area, but that will not keep you from travelling long distances. The average American travels about 40 miles per day by car, and the electric car can travel around 150 miles after a full charge. The Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt EV can do over 250 miles.
No Greener than Conventional Cars
There is major conflict over the fact that electric cars are greener than conventional cars. Critics argue that electricity generated by power plants is produced by the burning of fossil fuels, so how come that cars running on gasoline are any different. They overlook the point that electric cars have a higher input to output ratio. Moreover, many developed countries are moving towards renewable sources for producing electricity, which further alleviates the pollution problem.
Another common dispute is over the hefty and costly battery of an electric car; it is said to be a wastage of money and a burden on our landfills. It is true that batteries for electric cars are much heavier and cost thousands of dollars, but they also have a much longer lifespan (ten years or more) and possess better recycling value. Car batteries generally cost between $50 and $200, but they only last for 2 to 5 years and become useless after that.
Unsafe for Passengers and the Environment
Electric cars have the capacity to eradicate the issue of pollution and solid waste; hence, they are undoubtedly good for our environment. There is no direct relationship between electricity-powered vehicles and car accident injuries. The probability of a car crash depends on various factors, such as the road conditions, car design, and sobriety/skill of the driver. Electric car batteries are unlikely to explode and even if they do, they will cause less damage than a car fueled by gasoline.
