Even as EVs become more popular in New Zealand there are several myths about EVs that continue to linger. Below we debunk some of the most common myths about EVs so you can buy with confidence.
1. EVs don’t have enough range
While some older EVs may only have a range of around 100km per charge, newer models are taking us much further. The Renault Zoe, for example, has a range of 395km, while the new Hyundai IONIQ 5 will have a range of 384 – 481km. Even so, 100km may be more than sufficient for your daily commute if you live in a city.
2. EVs are too expensive
While some of the flashier higher-end EVs may come with a hefty price tag, there are plenty – like the Nissan Leaf – that are available at a more reasonable price point that is more comparable to more traditional combustion engine cars.
The recent rebate scheme introduced by the New Zealand government will help bring down the cost of new EVs further. And, as more EVs enter New Zealand, the second-hand market will increase, meaning more affordable options will become available.
It’s also important to consider the total cost of ownership when comparing EVs to combustion engine vehicles. And, it’s much cheaper to run a car off electricity than petrol, with a cost of approximately 30 cents per litre.
3. The batteries have a short a life span and will create more waste
Most batteries used in electric vehicles come with an 8 year, or 160,000km warranty so they’ll last you a fair while before needing to be replaced.
And, even when the batteries are no longer suitable to power your car, they can be repurposed and used for other energy storage solutions, like solar power.
Here in New Zealand B.I.G (Battery Industry Group) is working on a product stewardship scheme to create a circular economy for large batteries to ensure car batteries don’t end up in landfill when they can no longer power a car.
4. Charging takes too long
While charging your EV at home from your garage power point can take a bit of time, advances in technology and rapid charging stations mean that you can get ~100km worth of charge in approximately 30 minutes when you’re on the road.
5. EVs are no more environmentally friendly than gas cars
Given the manufacturing process and materials used in electric vehicles, many were left sceptical that they were more environmentally friendly than their traditional counterparts. A recent study, however, used the life cycle assessment to assess the carbon emissions of an EV from ‘cradle to the grave’.
It found that carbon emissions from an EV – even taking into account manufacturing and transportation – was still significantly lower than those of cars with an internal combustion engine. So, you can rest assured that replacing your gas guzzler with a new EV is a positive step for the environment.
Hopefully, now that you’ve read the truth behind some of these myths, you’ll feel more confident that buying an EV is the right step for you.