Busted: EVs come in all shapes and sizes. Not just as Tesla Model 3s either. They might look like sedans, but many EVs come in all kinds of vehicle classes. The Polestar 2 is actually a hatch, and the Tesla Model Y is an SUV. Did you know there’s also electric utes and vans? With more and more new electric cars on the way, there’s certainly more excitement to come. Carma Director of Buying Peter Willis offers this: “There’s flashier manufacturers like Tesla that make cars that feel futuristic and offer a unique driving experience, meanwhile there’s also established brands like Hyundai and BMW that take a lot of their experience into making electric cars that appeal to consumers they already cater to.”
Myth #6: EVs are more expensive
Busted: EV prices are becoming increasingly competitive. While the upfront cost of some EV models can be higher than their ICE counterparts, they often offer lower costs of up to 70% fuel savings and 40% maintenance savings. While the upfront cost of an EV is still higher at the moment, the total cost of ownership is lower.
EV ownership is only going to become more and more affordable in time. Developments in battery technology, decreasing production costs, and government incentives are just a few things that bring that all together.
Myth #7: EV batteries don't last long
Busted: Battery technology is improving rapidly. Modern EV batteries are designed to last for many years, often with warranties covering 8 to 10 years or more and usually longer than the car itself. When the EV battery does reach the end of its life, battery recycling and repurposing efforts (for renewable energy storage, for example) gives it a second life and reduces waste.
Myth #8: If everyone switches to EVs, the grid will collapse
Busted: The grid, along with EV technology, is adaptable and evolving. To futureproof our EV world, governments and utilities are working towards infrastructure to support the demands of electrification. Charging during off-peak times overnight can also be a way to accommodate the increased demand.
Modern EV models like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV or Nissan Leaf have a vehicle-to-grid (V2G) function that discharges battery back to the grid. This means the energy stored in the battery can be supplied back to the grid to power your own house or even sold.
Myth #9: EVs are as slow as golf carts
Busted: Many EVs are faster than traditional cars. Take the BMW i4’s 3.9 seconds 0-100km/hr time for example. That’s because EVs get instant torque from their electric motors. It’s most noticeable at takeoff, where the instant torque provides faster acceleration than their ICE counterparts. Along with instant torque, their traction control systems can also fully capitalise on tyre grip to allow faster acceleration.
