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0Several myths surround Electric Vehicles because they’re a relatively new phenomenon. While consumers are quickly pivoting the EV way, many are googling extensively to discover whether they’re safe for themselves and the planet.
Here are five common myths busted:
EVs Are Just as Bad for the Environment
Myth Busted: EVs are significantly greener than traditional gas vehicles. In fact, EVs produce 50%-60% fewer greenhouse gas emissions over their lifetime compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, even when charged using coal-powered electricity grids (ICCT). By 2030, transitioning to EVs could reduce global CO₂ emissions by 1.5 billion tons annually.
On the other hand, EV batteries are highly recyclable, with growing innovations in recycling methods. Companies like Redwood Materials and Li-Cycle can recover up to 95% of valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel from EV batteries. The global EV battery recycling market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 19.5%, reaching $13.4 billion by 2030.
EVs Are Too Expensive
Myth Busted: EVs are becoming increasingly affordable. Battery costs, the biggest component of EV prices, have fallen by 85% since 2010, from $1,200/kWh to around $132/kWh in 2023[1]. Many EV models now have a lower total cost of ownership than gas cars due to savings on fuel, maintenance, and government incentives.
Moreover, since modern EVs can cover significant distances on a single charge, the economic advantage of owning an EV can be more effective in the long run. The average EV now has a range of 250-400 miles, more than enough for daily commutes and road trips.
There Aren’t Enough Charging Stations
Myth Bysted: Charging infrastructure is rapidly expanding around the world. Globally, the number of public charging stations grew to 2.7 million in 2022, a 55% increase from 2021[2]. In India, the number of EV chargers is expected to reach 1.4 million by 2030, making charging more accessible[3]. Pleasantly, EV batteries are designed to last for a longer period of time, ensuring a smoother ride for a longer journey. Many EV manufacturers offer warranties of 6+ years or 100,000 miles on batteries, and many EV batteries retain 70%-80% capacity after 10 years. According to Clean Technica studies, EV batteries degrade by only 2%-3% annually, giving way to a long battery life for each rider.
EVs Are Slow and Lack Power
Myth Busted: EVs can outperform many gas-powered vehicles. Some EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, making them among the fastest cars in the world. The instant torque from electric motors gives some EVs better acceleration compared to ICE vehicles.
Perhaps that’s why rural EV adoption is growing, driven by affordability and reduced dependence on gas stations. Electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers dominate rural markets in countries like India, with sales expected to exceed 9 million units annually by 2030[4].
On the other hand, fast-charging technology has drastically reduced charging times. Technology is developing and ultra-fast chargers can charge an EV to 80% in 20-30 minutes, and some chargers can deliver a 100-mile range in just 10 minutes. While the technology for speedy charging is still on the rise, penetration is already coming at a time when the users are ready. The global deployment of DC fast chargers grew by 40% in 2022,[5] indicating that fast chargers are paving the way for a brighter, greener future.
EVs aren’t Safe for the Power Grid or the Riders
Reality: EVs can actually stabilize power grids. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology allows EVs to send electricity back to the grid during peak demand, helping stabilize energy systems. By 2030, V2G systems could provide 50 GW of storage capacity globally.[6] Of course, as renewable energy options are welcome into the fold, the capacity for EVs will be boldened globally.
As far as personal safety goes – EVs have undergone serious development to offer cutting-edge safety tech. EVs have a lower center of gravity, reducing the risk of rollovers, and advanced battery designs prevent fires. EVs are designed to meet and exceed safety standards while setting benchmarks for the future.
In conclusion
Debunking these myths reveals that EVs are not only viable but superior in many ways compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. With technological advancements and growing infrastructure, EVs are clearly the future of sustainable transportation.
[1] BloombergNEF
[2] IEA
[3] NITI Aayog
[4] ICCT
[5] IEA
[6] IEA
