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The photo above shows an electric vehicle being charged from GreenCars.
The pros and cons of electric vehicles (EVs) may not often be completely understood by the public. This article will convey some lesser-known details about this emerging technology, while also debunking some of the common misconceptions regarding EVs.
How long can EVs last?
How long can EVs last?
A common misconception about EVs is that these cars have limited range and are not suitable for long trips. On the contrary, in the past 10 years, both the range and charging time for electric vehicles have significantly been improved. Modern EVs can often drive, on average, one hundred to three hundred miles on a single charge.
The photo above shows an EV chargers from GreenCars.
As for the false idea that charging is not easy accessible for EVs on long trips, charging stations have quickly increased in number. For example, Tesla’s supercharger network is rapidly expanding, claiming to have 50,000 chargers nationwide and counting. By increasing the number of charging stations, many supercharger brands including ChargePoint have aided the feasibility of driving electric vehicles without worrying about where to recharge.
Also along the lines of accessibility when referring to EVs, these cars may use the High Occupancy Vehicle Lane (HOV lane) without the need for multiple passengers.
Aren't EVs really expensive?
Aren't EVs really expensive?
Another common misconceptions relates to the idea that EVs are too expensive to buy and maintain. In fact, the costs of electric vehicles are seeing reductions across the board. Government incentives, both at the state and federal level, encourage citizens to purchase electric vehicles, as the government provides thousands of dollars in tax rebates to purchasers of new EVs.
Although electric vehicles often have higher upfront costs than many traditional gas cars, the benefit of driving on electricity allows for massive fuel savings to compound over the years. The Natural Resources Defense Council agrees with this claim and further explains: “A 2020 Consumer Reports study similarly showed that EV drivers tend to spend about 60 percent less each year on fuel costs compared to drivers of gas-powered cars”.
EVs also save consumers a significant amount of money in car repairs and maintenance, as they need no oil changes and have fewer components that wear down and need regular replacement.
The photo above shows mining operations from earth.org.
Don't EVs cause more environmental damage?
Don't EVs cause more environmental damage?
A third common misconception argues that EVs are not actually environmentally friendly because electricity and EV batteries may rely on toxic or nonrenewable sources. It is true that a huge drawback of electric vehicles is related to the environmental cost of producing their batteries. Certain batteries such as lithium-ion batteries can leach heavy metals into the water and soil if not disposed of carefully and correctly. However, this problem would be remedied if there were stricter regulations and proper waste disposal of these batteries.
Additionally, not all electricity comes from clean sources of energy, as it is common for electric vehicles to be charged with energy that comes from nonrenewable sources such as fossil fuels. Unfortunately, this reduces the aggregate positive effect that electric vehicles can have on the environment. However, the claim that EVs are not environmentally friendly is false as, overall, driving electric vehicles still has a net-positive effect on the environment.
Who's actually making the switch?
Who's actually making the switch?
Given the falsity of many of the misconceptions outlined in this article, it is a good thing that many car companies have pledged to drastically increase EV production over the next several years. As of December of 2023, about 20% of new cars in America that were sold are either plug-in hybrids (PHEV) or electric vehicles. This is a definite step in the right direction. Despite the pollution from unsustainable lithium battery production and the hazardous waste omitted from factory production of batteries, EVs are overall a much more environmentally friendly alternative to the typical gas vehicle.
Sources and Further Reading
Sources and Further Reading
The following is a list of works that directly informed or are related to this piece. It is comprised of books and academic peer-reviewed journal articles, popular science articles and news stories, and information from environmental organizations. In the case of popular articles intended for the public, remember to always verify the source of information.
Special thanks to members of the Binghamton Policy Project (BPP) including Aaron Stern, Jacqueline Brandel, Jake Caspi, Julia Smargiassi, Kayla Chu, Shane Sekuler, and Timothy Brennan for writing this article!
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