I am seriously considering the purchase of an electric vehicle and, as soon as I said those words to my friends they began to send me articles explaining how impractical and totally inadequate electric vehicles are.
As a first step towards purchasing electric vehicles, this weekend I took one out for a test drive. Apparently the owner of the EV I took for a test drive had seen the video of my last test drive and did not want to go through a similar experience as the last sales guy so I was not allowed to video my latest test drive.
Other than the fact that the range on the Nissan Leaf is now approximately 150 kilometres (up from 100 kilometres four years ago), the fundamentals of the Nissan Leaf have not changed all that much.
Let’s consider a couple of the anti-EV points:
First – There would not be enough charging stations if everyone bought and drove an EV. You may have to wait at a charging station before being able to charge your car.
True. However, that is the same as saying there would not be enough gas stations or a distribution network if everyone bought cars that burn diesel. Not everyone is going to buy electric vehicles. Or a diesel.
And further, the vast majority of people can plug their car in at home overnight and then have a full charge in their batteries for the morning.
Second – If you do run the batteries out of charge, your car has to be towed to the next place it can be charged.
True. However, if you have any ability to plan your day, you will not run out of charge. Yep, you have to plan ahead. Same as people who drive a diesel powered vehicle. A little planning helps you go a long way.
Anyway, the fact is that EVs are NOT for everyone. If you need a truck to haul your tools and work supplies around with you, probably no EV in your future.
If you live in Chilliwack and drive to UBC everyday, probably no EV in your future.
On the other hand, if you live in Surrey and drive to Burnaby or Vancouver, you would be well served by trading in your gas powered car and getting and electric vehicle. Not only would you no longer have to pay for gasoline and oil changes, you get to drive in the HOV lane and your tolls are lower!!
The fact is, electric vehicles (EVs) are actually very practical for many more commuters than most people realize.
Yes to electric cars! Especially if they Tesla on the sales slip.
*say
Awesome! I appreciate dry information (I’m not really into cars) presented in a humourous way. Thanks for this. I learned something new.
Electric cars get to drive in the HOV lane???