Myths to dispel about electric cars
Index
- Can you make long trips with electric cars?
- Is charging time for electric cars really an issue?
- Can you drive the electric car in the snow?
- Are electric cars more dangerous in accidents?
The adoption of electric vehicles is a key step toward a more sustainable and efficient mobility future. However, numerous myths and misconceptions still persist that hold back the uptake of this technology, hindering informed choice by many potential buyers.
In this article, we at. Powy, a leader in the electric mobility industry with a proven track record in developing and managing charging infrastructure, will attempt to dispel some of the most common misconceptions about electric cars by providing clear, evidence-based information.
Can you make long trips with electric cars?
One myth to dispel is that electric cars are not suitable for long trips. In Europe, the average distance traveled by car is relatively low. For example, in 2021, the average annual distance traveled by car in the EU was about 10,300 km, with significant variations between countries. In Italy, for example, the average was about 6,900 km per year. This translates into an average daily driving distance of about 32.9 km.
Regarding this topic, a survey conducted by the European Commission a few years ago showed that most citizens underestimated the range of electric cars, considering it insufficient for daily needs. However, the analysis showed that in almost all cases, electric cars on the market could meet the average daily distance traveled by respondents.
In recent years, the average range of electric cars has increased significantly, with some models even exceeding 800 km of range. At one time, limited range was a legitimate concern, but today many electric car models offer sufficient range for both daily use and long trips.
At the same time, technology is also advancing in the field of charging infrastructure, which is becoming more and more ubiquitous and equipped with columns with higher and higher power ratings, which is particularly useful for long distances. We of Powy offer a constantly developing network of charging stations at strategic locations, making it increasingly easy to find a charging point along your planned route.
Many countries are increasingly investing in charging infrastructure, with charging stations available in parking lots, shopping malls and along major highways. For example, in Italy, as reported by Motus-E, there were 54,164 public-use charging points installed as of March 2024, almost double the 27,857 noted two years earlier.
Similarly in Spain, there are - with fewer electric cars on the road than in Italy - more than 34 thousand charging points as of June 2024. These advances demonstrate how the charging infrastructure is evolving rapidly to meet the growing needs of users, ensuring that long trips can be planned with electric cars.
Is charging time for electric cars really an issue?
Another common false myth is that the charging time of electric cars is too long, making them impractical for daily use. While it is true that charging time can vary depending on battery capacity and the type of charger used, fast charging technologies are improving significantly.
Second Motus-E, the most powerful public charging stations installed in Italy reach 350 kW of power and are capable of charging a state-of-the-art electric car at a rate of about 200 km of range every 10 minutes.
Specifically, we at Powy offer a state-of-the-art charging infrastructure, ranging from slow 7.4 kW charging points to ultra-rapid 150 kW-plus columns, ideal for long journeys and high-traffic areas. In addition, many electric car owners charge their vehicles overnight at home, taking advantage of lower energy rates and the convenience of waking up each day with a fully charged battery.
For those who need to recharge during the day, fast-charging stations are increasingly common in urban areas, highways and strategic points, making the charging process increasingly convenient.
Can you drive the electric car in snow and cold climates?
There is concern that electric cars are not suitable for cold climates or snowy conditions. Battery performance can decline at low temperatures, but technology has made great strides in recent years. Many manufacturers offer temperature management systems that keep the battery at the right operating temperature, even in extreme conditions.
These systems can include battery heaters and cooling systems that ensure that the battery operates efficiently. In addition, electric cockpit heating is more efficient than combustion systems because it does not depend on heat generated by the engine, but uses electric heaters that can heat the cockpit quickly and evenly.
Modern electric cars are tested in extreme weather conditions and are equipped with systems that optimize energy use in cold climates. Many models offer options such as battery and cabin pre-heating, which can be activated while the car is still connected to the grid, reducing the impact on battery charge.
This means you can get into a car already warm and with the battery at the optimum temperature, improving both comfort and energy efficiency. In addition, many electric cars are equipped with all-wheel drive, which improves stability and traction on snowy or icy roads, making them suitable for even the harshest winter conditions.
Are electric cars more dangerous in accidents?
Another false myth is that electric cars are more dangerous in accidents than traditional cars. Electric cars are subject to the same stringent safety standards as traditional cars, if not more stringent in some cases.
Many electric cars get excellent ratings in crash tests conducted by independent organizations. The battery, which is one of the most critical elements, is oftenprotected by robust structures to minimize risk in the event of a collision. These structures are designed to absorb the energy of the impact and protect the battery from damage that could cause fire or explosion.
In the event of an accident, electric cars are designed to automatically isolate the battery, preventing the risk of electric shock. This isolation system is activated by sensors that detect the impact and immediately disconnect the battery from the rest of the vehicle. In addition, because electric cars do not have fuel tanks, they do not pose the risk of fire from gasoline or diesel spills.
Automakers invest heavily in the safety of their vehicles, and electric cars are no exception. Many models are equipped with advanced driver assistance and active safety systems, such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping and pedestrian detection, which help prevent accidents before they happen.
Conclusion
The adoption of electric cars is a key step toward more sustainable and efficient mobility. Despite false myths, such as the idea that electric cars are not suitable for long trips or that their charging time is excessive, the reality is different. Thanks to continuous technological advances, electric cars offer high range and fast charging times, supported by advanced infrastructure.
The experience of Powy in the field of charging infrastructure demonstrates how long trips can be planned smoothly, thanks to ultra-rapid charging stations that allow for range recovery in record time.
With the development of charging infrastructure and a growing commitment to environmental sustainability, electric cars are confirmed as an environmentally friendly, practical and safe choice for the future of mobility. It is critical for us at Powy to disseminate accurate information to overcome misconceptions and encourage a transition to cleaner and more efficient mobility for all.
In summary, electric cars are not just a passing fad, but a concrete solution to address environmental challenges and improve quality of life. With the support of electric mobility companies and increasingly aware drivers, the future of electric mobility is brighter than ever.