Share
0Sci-fi has influenced humanity for decades, often molding reality. The true story of the rise of EVs is no less than a Sci-fi story either, with a shocking starting point and a bright future. The plot and the tech are both on point as the advent of EVs takes centre stage in the world. What most people don’t realize is – this isn’t the first time EVs have made their entrance! Yes, in fact in 1884, Thomas Parker built the first practical EV before the rise of gasoline-powered vehicles. And here’s what happened next:
The First Debut, and Exit for EVs
After its launch, by the early 1900s, EVs accounted for 28% of all cars in the United States, favoured for their simplicity and quiet operation. However, in the 1920s, EVs lost dominance over gasoline cars due to the latter’s lower fuel costs, mass production by Ford, and improved road infrastructure. The adoption fell flat, and quickly, and by 1935, EVs had virtually disappeared from the market.
The Sci-Fi Influence on EV Dreams
Popular science fiction in the mid-20th century envisioned futuristic cities powered by electric and self-driving vehicles. This re-introduced the once-lost idea of the EV and stoked the minds of many. EVs remained a symbol of technological advancement, appearing in movies and literature as the “car of tomorrow.”
The Oil Crisis and EV Resurgence
The 1970s oil crisis reignited interest in EVs, leading to the development of prototypes like the General Motors EV1 in 1996. While the EV1 demonstrated potential, it was discontinued in the early 2000s due to high costs and a lack of infrastructure. Without infrastructure, EVs have no real shot at proliferation and that’s why so many government interventions have finally made the dream a reality around the world. Without policy support, EVs could’ve never achieved back then, what they have today.
Breakthrough or Breaking Point?
The invention of lithium-ion batteries in the 1990s was a turning point for EVs, offering higher energy density and faster charging compared to lead-acid batteries. Because of that, today, lithium-ion batteries are the standard, with costs dropping by 85% since 2010, making EVs more affordable. Since the EV has been made economical, consumers are noticing that in the longer run it is the cheaper choice.
The Modern Character Arc
Tesla’s launch of the Roadster in 2008 proved that EVs could be both high-performance and desirable. The public appeal became solidified and the EVs’ status from fiction to fact became solidified. In fact, modern EVs like the Tesla boast features like autonomous driving, smart connectivity, and over-the-air software updates.
The planet is the Real Star
The number of public EV chargers worldwide has grown to 2.7 million (2022), up by 55% from the previous year (IEA). Wireless charging and ultra-fast chargers capable of charging in under 10 minutes are now being developed. As infrastructure finally makes widespread adoption possible, EVs have got their real chance – to make a solid comeback. This time, they’re here to stay.
Moreover, the climate crisis rises every day and the conscience of the average consumer has come to a pivoting point. More and more users are being driven by green choices as the planet needs crucial interventions. Since EVs produce 50%-60% fewer lifetime emissions than gas-powered vehicles and transitioning to EVs globally could reduce annual CO₂ emissions by 1.5 billion tons by 2030 – it is a no-brainer choice for many young consumers to go the EV way.
EV Market Rides Ahead
Global EV sales hit 10 million in 2022, a 55% increase from 2021, and are projected to reach 60% of total new car sales by 2030 (IEA). While challenges in EV evolution persist, so does the growth. Governments and companies worldwide are transitioning to electric fleets. Amazon plans to deploy 100,000 electric delivery vans by 2030. India aims for 30% EV penetration in private vehicles and 80% in two- and three-wheelers by 2030.
The Next Sci-fi Frontier: Autonomous Electric Vehicles (AEVs)
AEVs represent the future of mobility, combining AI with sustainable transportation. These are self-driving vehicles that can gauge roads, obstructions and lead your car without needing a driver. By 2030, AEVs are expected to account for 25% of EV sales, especially in urban and fleet markets. This would be the next Sci-fi milestone as cars drive themselves forward.
In conclusion
The journey of EVs from science fiction dreams to every day realities reflects humanity’s ingenuity and commitment to sustainability. While challenges remain, the rapid evolution of technology and infrastructure suggests that EVs will dominate the roads of tomorrow. As EVs rise and AEVs debut on the roads, the future is paved by serious tech and incredible innovation
