Should you buy a new electric car..

[MA2444]

This has been tried before:



I imagine it didn't work out for the same reasons now. We just don't have the infrastructure for it, and gas powered cars tend to be more convenient. I think they're okay for city driving, but they do come with a lot of cons.

Have you ever seen an EV that burned? That's never conveinant than gas powered, lol.

I know that gas cars burn also but EV's are catching up fast!

 

[Hobie]

Have you ever seen an EV that burned? That's never conveinant than gas powered, lol.

I know that gas cars burn also but EV's are catching up fast!

Well there is more than just that, this will fad will fade like the rest of them as even the supporters are seeing...
'Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), they haven’t captured the hearts of all drivers yet. We break down the 13 disappointing reasons behind the slow adoption rate, from the high upfront costs and concerns over battery life to the inadequate charging infrastructure and the environmental impact of battery production...As we explore these hurdles, it becomes clear that while EVs offer a promising solution to reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, significant challenges remain in making them the preferred choice for every motorist.

EVs Battery Production Is Bad For The Environment​

The production of electric vehicle batteries raises environmental concerns due to the mining of lithium, cobalt, and other minerals, which can lead to habitat destruction, water pollution, and carbon emissions. Ethical issues around cobalt sourcing further complicate matters.

Despite these challenges, the situation is improving with advances in recycling and ethical sourcing practices. Moreover, the lifetime environmental benefits of EVs, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional cars, often outweigh the initial ecological impact of battery production.

Efforts to develop batteries with less harmful materials are also underway, promising a more sustainable future for EVs. This progress reflects the industry’s commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of clean transportation.

EVs Use Electricity That Is Produced With Fossil Fuels​

Critics argue that electric vehicles (EVs) are less eco-friendly because they use coal and natural gas electricity.

However, the energy sector is increasingly shifting towards renewables like solar, wind, and hydro, making EVs greener over time. Even when charged on a grid that uses fossil fuels, EVs are still more efficient and emit less over their lifespan than traditional cars, thanks to their efficient electric motors.

As clean energy becomes more common, EVs’ environmental benefits will only grow, solidifying their role in cutting global emissions. This trend underscores EVs’ importance in the move towards sustainable transportation.

Gas Cars Perform Better​

The capabilities of modern electric vehicles challenge the perception that performance is synonymous with the roar of a gas engine. Initially, EVs might have been likened to golf carts, focusing more on efficiency than power, but today’s electric cars overturn that stereotype.

Today’s EVs, including sporty cars and SUVs, are equipped with advanced electric propulsion systems that offer instant torque and remarkable acceleration, making them competitive with, and often superior to, traditional gas-powered vehicles in everyday driving scenarios.

High-performance EVs from brands like Tesla and Porsche can outpace many gas-powered supercars in zero-to-60-mph tests, showcasing their impressive capabilities. While it’s true that EVs may not reach the extreme top speeds of some specialized gas-powered cars, this difference is hardly relevant for regular driving, where legal speed limits and practicality prevail.

EV’s Are More Expensive​

Electric vehicles are pricier upfront compared to their gas-powered counterparts. Most people are very price-conscious and get spooked at the higher upfront costs. However, they could be more cost-effective in the long run. Despite the general increase in vehicle prices, EVs offer savings through lower operational costs.

Electricity, the “fuel” for EVs, is cheaper than gas, and these vehicles are designed for efficiency, meaning the cost per mile is significantly less. Additionally, EVs boast minimal maintenance needs. Costs are further reduced with fewer mechanical parts and no need for regular fluid changes.

For instance, the Chevrolet Bolt almost eliminates maintenance expenses for up to 150,000 miles. On top of these savings, owning an electric vehicle could also qualify you for a tax rebate of up to $7,500 in the U.S., making some EVs ultimately cheaper than traditional gas vehicles over their lifespan.

EVs Will Catch On Fire​

The perception that electric vehicles pose a higher fire risk has been influenced by a few widely reported incidents and recalls. Yet, vehicle fires are far more common with gasoline cars, occurring daily due to crashes, but they rarely gain significant media attention because of their frequency.

EVs utilize lithium-ion batteries, similar to those in laptops and cell phones, which do carry a risk of fire, but such incidents are rare. The concern over our electronic devices catching fire is minimal, demonstrating a contrast in public perception of risk.

Gasoline, known for its highly flammable nature, is handled with caution, underscoring the inherent fire risks associated with traditional fuel that are often accepted as a part of daily life. This comparison highlights a disparity in safety concerns, suggesting that the fear surrounding EV fires may be disproportionate to their actual risk compared to conventional gasoline vehicles.....

 

[Hobie]

EV’s Take Too Long To Charge​

Charging an electric vehicle takes longer than refueling a gas car, and this spooks people because they are used to going to the gas station whenever they are running low. However, most EV charging occurs overnight or during other downtimes, rendering the longer charging times inconsequential for daily use.

The primary concern arises during road trips, yet the situation is improving as public charging technology advances. Charging speeds can vary, but strategically placed chargers along popular routes allow drivers to use waiting time productively, such as for dining or shopping, without needing to monitor the charging process.

Furthermore, the advent of DC fast-charging stations means some EVs can gain hundreds of miles of range in just 15 to 20 minutes, significantly reducing wait times and making electric travel more feasible and less time-consuming.

There Are Not Enough EV Charging Stations​

Charging an electric vehicle at home is definitely the most cost-effective and convenient option. However, not everyone has the luxury of home charging all the time. For those individuals, access to public charging stations becomes critical before committing to an EV.

The availability of EV charging infrastructure has significantly improved in recent years, thanks to concerted efforts by various companies. Places like California, which follow the California Air Resources Board’s standards, now boast a higher density of public chargers. While some regions may still lag behind, major travel routes across the country are increasingly being equipped with charging stations. Additionally, many hotels, businesses, and even gas stations are beginning to offer EV charging facilities.


For EV owners with home charging capabilities, the reliance on public chargers is minimal, making daily use straightforward and convenient. When it comes to longer journeys, the expanding network of public chargers means that with a bit of planning, finding charging stations along most routes is becoming easier, ensuring a smooth and worry-free travel experience for EV users.

EV’s Don’t Have Enough Range​

The notion that electric vehicles lack as much range as gas cars is true but it is also becoming outdated. Many of today’s models boast ranges of 250-300 miles or more, with advancements continuously extending these limits.

Such ranges allow most EV owners to charge their vehicles just once or twice a week, similar to the frequency of visits to the gas station for traditional cars. For instance, the Chevrolet Bolt exceeds 250 miles per charge, and models like the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia EV6, and Ford Mustang Mach-E offer options that surpass 300 miles.

Luxury vehicles, including the Lucid Air, can achieve ranges of over 500 miles. While some EVs still offer lower ranges and may not be suitable for regular long-distance travel, they can be ideal for city driving and could serve as economical second vehicles for those with alternative options for longer journeys.

Electricity Is Expensive To Charge EVs​

Charging an electric vehicle (EV) at home will indeed raise your electricity bill, but it’s significantly more cost-effective than relying on public fast-charging stations or purchasing gasoline. Even with gas prices as low as $2 per gallon, home charging offers substantial savings, particularly if done during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower rates.

Electricity costs do vary by state, but even in areas where electricity is priciest, it remains over 50% cheaper than gas. For those driving short-range EVs or covering fewer daily miles, the increase in the electric bill might be barely noticeable.

The cost to charge a long-range EV increases with mileage, yet it still presents a stark contrast to the expenses associated with gas vehicles. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the annual cost to charge a model like the Tesla Model 3 at around $550, whereas fueling a gas-powered car such as the BMW 3 Series can exceed $2,000 annually. This comparison highlights the long-term financial benefits of EV ownership, emphasizing the efficiency and economy of electric driving.

The Batteries Need To Be Replaced, And They Are Expensive​

While it’s true that electric vehicle (EV) batteries don’t last indefinitely and replacing a large battery pack can be costly, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars when out of warranty, this concern is somewhat mitigated by the longevity and warranty coverage of modern EV batteries.

https://greenbuildingelements.com/1...lectric-cars-arent-winning-everyone-over-yet/

 

[MA2444]

The perception that electric vehicles pose a higher fire risk has been influenced by a few widely reported incidents and recalls. Yet, vehicle fires are far more common with gasoline cars, occurring daily due to crashes, but they rarely gain significant media attention because of their frequency.

The brown horses eat more than the white horses...because there are more of the brown horses!

But like I said, they're catching up fast! Besides, who would want an EV in this day & age?! If it's electric then it's digital and all of them will come wired to listen to you, record video or even turn your car on or off to let you drive or not. That's too much potential for control for my tastes. Police is trying to pull soeone over and they are running? Flick a switch and the guys car shuts off. Not me.

 

[MA2444]

While it’s true that electric vehicle (EV) batteries don’t last indefinitely and replacing a large battery pack can be costly, often reaching tens of thousands of dollars when out of warranty, this concern is somewhat mitigated by the longevity and warranty coverage of modern EV batteries.

Yeah but I can take my truck battery and even recondition it if it dies, with baking soda. Then recharge it with my battery charger and it works again, no government required!

 

[JohnDB]

https://x.com/JohnLeePettim13/status/1754124519864725761?s=20

 

[Hobie]

This is interesting...

17 Reasons Why Electric Cars Should Be Banned​

The use of electric cars is growing by the day, and with that come various drawbacks. Electric cars were innovated as a way to reduce greenhouse emissions and combat climate change; however, several problems arise with their increased use and call for a need to regulate them. This article looks at 17 reasons why electric cars should be banned.

Environmental Impact of Battery Production​

Photo Credit: IM Imagery/Shutterstock.
Electric cars use lithium-ion batteries, and the manufacture of these batteries involves mining for rare metals that greatly cause pollution. According to the Climate Portal, the production of batteries for electric cars causes 80% more emissions than gasoline cars, which significantly affects the environment.

Strain on Electrical Grid​

Photo Credit: chuyuss/Shutterstock.
As more people adapt to the use of electric cars, there is an increased strain on the existing electrical grids. This increases the risk of blackouts and infrastructural overload, and the situation can be even worse in areas with limited access to electricity.

Limited Range and Infrastructure​

Electric cars face challenges for use over long distances. Despite improvements in battery technology, they still face issues with limited range. Ypte.org states that many electric vehicles only have a range of about 150 miles or less and would require a charging time of around 30 minutes with a high-voltage power station.

Impact on Oil Industry and Economy​

The transition to electric cars threatens traditional automotive sectors like the oil industry. Fluctuations in oil demand could disrupt economies heavily reliant on oil revenues, leading to economic instability. Therefore, banning electric cars could help preserve jobs and revenue tied to fossil fuel extraction, refining, and distribution.

Disposal and Recycling Challenges​

Proper disposal and recycling of electric car batteries need to be improved. According to Cyber Switching, there is a diverse range of processes required for the proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries, and there are no guidelines on how to do it, which increases the risk to the environment.

Affordability and Accessibility​

Banning electric cars might be necessary due to affordability and accessibility issues. Higher initial costs and the limited availability of affordable models exclude many consumers, widening socioeconomic disparities. Until electric vehicles become more accessible to all income brackets, a ban may ensure equitable transportation options for everyone.

Resource Depletion and Supply Chain Issues​

Photo Credit: Joaquin Corbalan P/Shutterstock.
The increasing demand for rare earth metals in electric car batteries raises concerns about resource depletion and supply chain vulnerabilities. Problems with supply chains, such as limited battery production capacity and relying on a few countries for critical materials, can heighten geopolitical risks, necessitating diversification strategies and sustainable resource management practices.

Impact on Gasoline Tax Revenue​

The shift toward electric vehicles undermines traditional revenue streams from gasoline taxes, a primary source of funding for road maintenance and infrastructure. Compensating for lost revenue requires exploring alternative funding mechanisms, such as road usage charges or taxes on electricity consumption, to compensate for lost revenue.

Safety Concerns​

Photo Credit: Javier ki/Shutterstock.
Lithium-ion batteries in electric cars pose fire risks, presenting encounters for emergency responders. Addressing safety concerns requires specialized training and equipment for battery handling and firefighting. Additionally, concerns about pedestrian safety due to the quiet operation of electric vehicles necessitate implementing auditory warning systems to alert pedestrians to approaching vehicles.

Disruption of Traditional Automotive Service Industry​

Electric cars need different expertise for maintenance and repair. The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) risks job displacement in traditional service sectors, necessitating retraining and adaptation for auto mechanics and service centers to meet the evolving demands of the market, posing significant challenges in the process.

Impact on Public Transportation and Urban Planning​

Electric cars may reduce reliance on public transportation, impacting urban planning. Increased private vehicle usage could strain infrastructure and exacerbate congestion. Moreover, public transit systems may need to adapt, focusing on efficiency and sustainability to remain viable options, while urban planners face challenges in balancing the needs of various transportation modes.

Public Health Concerns​

Electric vehicles are often praised for their potential to reduce air pollution, but concerns arise regarding indirect emissions from electricity generation. In urban areas, where EV adoption is high but electricity relies on fossil fuels, respiratory health risks persist. Additionally, battery production involves chemicals that pose health hazards to workers and nearby communities.

Challenges in Charging Infrastructure Expansion​

Expanding charging infrastructure, especially in rural and remote areas, faces hurdles such as installation costs and lower population density. Significant investments in both hardware and software solutions are required to build and upgrade charging stations. Integrating renewable energy sources further complicates infrastructure development, requiring careful planning and investment.

Grid Decarbonization Challenges​

Transitioning to electric vehicles necessitates decarbonizing the electricity grid, which involves scaling up renewable energy sources and phasing out fossil fuels. Challenges include intermittency, grid congestion, and energy market dynamics. Collaboration among policymakers, utilities, and stakeholders is essential to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon electricity system.

Wildlife Habitat Threats​

Increased use of electric vehicles intensifies the need for resources like lithium and cobalt, leading to a rise in mining activities. This expansion poses threats to wildlife habitats, particularly in regions rich in these minerals. Mining operations disrupt ecosystems and contribute to habitat loss, impacting biodiversity and endangering vulnerable species.

Increased Carbon Footprint​

The manufacturing of batteries for electric vehicles contributes significantly to their overall carbon footprint. Lithium-ion batteries require energy-intensive processes and the extraction of raw materials, both of which release greenhouse gasses. Additionally, sourcing materials like lithium and cobalt can involve environmentally damaging practices, further exacerbating the carbon footprint of EV batteries.

Impact on Air Quality​

While electric vehicles produce no tailpipe emissions, concerns arise about their indirect impact on air quality. The source of electricity used for charging, often derived from fossil fuels, can contribute to pollution. Furthermore, tire wear and brake dust from electric cars emit particulate matter, potentially compromising air quality.

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