The electric vehicle (EV) industry has undergone dramatic growth, with innovative technologies making headlines daily. Yet, like any technology, EVs come with their own set of shortcomings.
Electric cars are increasingly becoming a popular choice among consumers, aligning with the evolving auto-industry trends that suggest an impending demise for Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs). As electric cars become more prevalent, they may lose their novelty appeal. The benefits of EVs are numerous, touching on individual and communal factors, but there are still bumps in the road in this stage of the industry’s evolution.
When considering a car purchase, potential buyers must weigh various aspects, including value for money, range, lifespan, resale value, performance in different environments, safety, and comfort, among others. At this point, electric cars might not sufficiently meet all these criteria. It is critical to find the models that best align with the individual’s preferences and requirements. Although these challenges are likely to be addressed in the future given industry trends, they cannot be ignored by today’s electric car purchasers.
Recharging Time Lags Behind Gas Refuelling
One of the main drawbacks of EVs when compared to ICEs is the extended time needed for a full charge. In conventional cars, refueling is a straightforward process: simply pouring a liquid into a tank. For electric cars, the charging process isn’t as simple. Charging duration can range from twenty minutes to over six hours, depending on the power source, voltage, and vehicle type. Despite this, the future holds promise, with some companies already testing fast-charge prototypes.
Charging Infrastructure Lags Behind EV Demand
Electric cars offer the convenience of home charging, given the appropriate setup. However, home charging is generally slower than at a charging station. Despite the fact that there are only 56,000 in the United States and more than 375,000 in Europe. The increasing demand for EVs indicates a need for a substantial increase in the number of charging stations. Also, the distribution of these charging stations is uneven, which could leave drivers stranded in areas without charging facilities.
Limited Range in Most EV Models
The challenge of limited range in electric cars is a hurdle that persists even today. Despite significant progress, electric cars still lag behind their conventional counterparts in terms of driving range. Some of the longest-range EV models are the Mercedes EQS 450+ AMG Line, the Lucid Air Dream Edition, and the Tesla Model S Dual Motor all-wheel-drive, but these are high-end models that are beyond the average range of under 300 miles.
Battery Longevity is Still a Concern
In electric cars, the battery is not just a critical component but the vehicle’s lifeblood. Good quality batteries in moderate climates can last between 12 to 15 years with proper maintenance. However, in extreme temperature zones, the lifespan reduces to between 8 and 12 years. Notwithstanding this, companies like Tesla and Hyundai offer warranties extending up to 100,000 Miles or 8/10 years for their batteries.
Electric Cars Cost More Than Their ICE Counterparts
Electric vehicles currently carry a higher upfront cost than equivalent ICE cars. The expense of batteries and investment in research and new technologies add to this cost. However, the operating and maintenance cost of EVs tend to be lower than that of conventional cars. Furthermore, governmental incentives towards renewable energy and EVs might improve the cost-benefit ratio in the future.
Battery Replacement is Cost-Prohibitive
Battery replacement in EVs can be expensive, especially when compared to ICE vehicles. Battery pack prices, which were steadily falling since 2010, rose last year due to increased lithium prices. Though this price is expected to decrease in the future, potential owners should consider this cost factor.
Environmental Impact is More Complex Than It Seems
While electric cars have the advantage of producing zero tailpipe emissions, they are not entirely green. The extraction of lithium and other materials used in batteries involves industrial processes that generate pollution. Plus, these processes often occur in countries like Chile or Bolivia, which are not major consumers of EVs.
Lower Top Speeds than ICE Cars
On average, electric cars tend to have lower top speeds than conventional cars. To achieve the highest speed, you would have to look at premium models like the Maserati GranTurismo Folgore. Additionally, a focus on battery longevity and efficiency over speed means this might be a long-standing issue.
EV Repairs Require Specialized Service Center
Owning an electric vehicle necessitates access to specialized repair services, particularly for second-hand purchases. These specialized services aren’t widely available, making long-distance trips a potential issue.
Electric Cars Aren’t the Only Future Technology
With the push towards cleaner energy sources, it’s likely that gasoline-powered cars will become less common. Yet, the future of vehicles isn’t solely in electricity. Hydrogen cars, for instance, are gaining traction among manufacturers, including Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai, primarily due to their quick refueling times and excellent range.
