public charging
5 Myths about electric vehicles: Busted
These are the most common misconceptions around electric vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) have been gaining popularity in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are nearly 2.5 million EVs registered across the country. As the U.S. government encourages adoption with financial incentives and regulations, EVs and charging stations alike are growing in numbers. Despite this momentum, misconceptions about EVs persist. Here, we address the five most common myths.
The transition to EV is far off
As the U.S. government embraces the transition to electric, we are seeing more opportunities and regulations around EVs than ever before. As the quantity of EVs on the road is at an all-time high and fleets are making the leap, we are certainly in the thick of the electric transition. As electrification continues, drivers who are currently transitioning are no longer early-adopters, with over a million electric vehicles currently on the road in the US, according to the IEA – Global EV Data Explorer.
There aren’t enough charging stations to meet demand
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are more than 63,000 charging stations from coast to coast. EV drivers can rest assured that along their journey, they will be able to map to a charging station and access charging on the go.
bp pulse is also committed to growing a healthy and extensive network of charging locations across the U.S. in coming years. You can use our map to view available chargers at convenient locations. Alternatively, download the bp pulse app to search for charging on the go, as well as manage payments and track charging activity.
EVs are more expensive
Although EVs can cost more to buy outright, they can have a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) in the long run with government incentives, lower maintenance costs, and lower fuel costs. This tool by Energy Innovation shows the cost of savings that EV drivers can enjoy from the lower cost of charging up on electric, versus filling up a gas or diesel tank.
While EVs might once have been more expensive than traditional vehicles, today, lower-priced models have made the switch to EV more accessible. In a 2023 article from Car and Driver, 10 of the most affordable electric vehicles are outlined, starting at $27,495. With more manufacturers producing electric vehicles, drivers have increasing variety and price points to choose from.
EVs have a limited battery range and are not practical for long trips
While range anxiety is a common concern, most EVs now cover between 100 and 300 miles when fully charged, depending on factors such as the vehicle make and model. According to our research, 89% of EV drivers have used their EV to drive 150+ miles in the past three months in a single journey. As EVs have evolved, more drivers than ever can now leverage their vehicle for longer distance journeys.
With research from the U.S. Department of Energy, we know that electric vehicles in 2020 had a median range of more than 250 miles and the maximum battery range was over 400 miles. These ongoing advancements in battery range allow more people to adopt electric vehicles and find it completely feasible for longer trips.
EVs are slow and lack power
Contemporary EVs can provide acceleration and top speeds to rival their ICE equivalents. For example, the Kia EV6 GT can go from zero to 60mph in 3.5 seconds, while the Tesla Model S Plaid can go from zero to 60mph in an impressive 2.1 seconds. Depending on the make and model you select, a switch to EV doesn’t have to mean a compromise on performance.
Making a change of any kind can feel intimidating. Learning more about electric vehicles, the benefits, and how they might serve your specific needs for transportation is critical to feeling comfortable making the switch.
Go further
Learn more about bp pulse public charging
Wherever you are, plug into fast and reliable chargers in accessible locations from coast to coast. Whether you’re commuting to work or driving cross country–just plug in, power up, and go.
Date
29 August 2023
author
Meg Dinga
Senior Director, Marketing Operations and Special Projects
bp pulse Americas
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