Why Are Electric Vehicles Not Popular?
Introduction
The campaign for a shift to green energy has been ongoing in recent years. In an attempt to reduce CO2 emissions that damage the atmosphere leading to global warming and its adverse effects, vehicle manufacturing industries developed electric vehicles to shift from fossil fuel-driven vehicles.
The shift, however, has not been embraced fully around the world for several reasons. The low popularity of electric vehicles is highlighted by Alexander Powell Cheltenham, an experienced and passionate car enthusiast from Cheltenham, UK. Even with improved versions and multiple
The conversation about electric cars shows emerging themes and campaigns against the vehicles compared to the Internal combustion engine (ICE) models. Reasons range from high pricing of the cars, few charging points to accusations of the vehicles being made from minerals mined by kids in Congo, Africa. Reasons for the low popularity of electric vehicles include:
High Costs Of Purchase
Since the entry of electric vehicles into the market, their prices have been relatively higher compared to petroleum-fueled vehicles. The high prices of these cars are one of the main reasons they are not popular. Most EVs are still pricey despite grants in lots of countries in campaigns against global warming or due to discounts emerging from competition from different manufacturers. The cheapest EV goes for over 20,000 euros.
Suitable Charging Points
EV charging infrastructure is one reason against its popularity. There is a lack of suitable charging points especially with town residents without parking and relying on on-street parking.
Some people prefer to have home charging points which are not available at the moment. Charging points are limited and most people lack knowledge on EVs. Lack of knowledge on EVs and their charging system drives people away from purchasing cars. The cost of electricity and concerns on whether the grid can sustain the cars has increased its opposition.
Range Restrictions
There are concerns about the restriction on the distances EVs can travel on a single charge. Most people prefer the range per single charge; an EV should cover more miles than currently offered to avoid inconveniences. This, however, is still not available even with big brands such as Tesla and Audi. Improvements are underway with Tesla Model S has the highest range covered at 520 miles.
Preference
Most surveys show that people prefer traditional cars to EVs. One of the reasons being there is not enough knowledge about EVs to the public. Once people get to know how EVs work, maintenance, and care, more people will purchase EVs. Some argue they have to see others use the car before they buy it due to its low popularity.
There are arguments on whether the batteries on the EVs last long or people will incur charges on their replacements. The environmental friendliness of EVs is still in question with a portion skeptical on its “greenness”.
Most motorists don’t like the available styles of electric cars. With traditional vehicles, there are different models and styles to choose from compared to the limited EV styles.
Manufacturers’ Bias
There is a reluctance coming from manufacturers on selling electric vehicles hence few choices in the EV market. 95% of most manufacturers’ sales come from ICEs hence incentives for EV manufacturing platforms are getting limited. Dealerships are also hesitant on EVs with poor online purchasing systems and over-reliance on showrooms.
