Top 20 things they don’t tell you about electric cars

Get daily dose of latest news for free in your email inbox regarding business finance technology and lot more put your email adress and subscribe to my daily newsletter

Charging infrastructure limitations: While electric cars are becoming more popular, the charging infrastructure is still developing. Not all areas have an extensive network of charging stations, especially in rural or remote locations.

Charging time: Charging an electric car takes longer than refueling a conventional vehicle. Even with fast chargers, it can still take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to fully charge, depending on the battery size and charger type.

Range anxiety: The fear of running out of battery, known as range anxiety, is a real concern for some electric car owners. It requires careful planning and awareness of charging stations along your route, especially for long trips.

Limited range in extreme temperatures: Electric car range can be significantly reduced in extreme temperatures, whether it’s extremely cold or hot. Operating the heater or air conditioning can also impact the range.

Battery degradation: Over time, the battery capacity of electric cars can degrade, resulting in reduced range. While advancements in battery technology have improved this aspect, it’s still something to consider, especially if you plan to keep the vehicle for many years.

Higher upfront cost: Electric cars generally have a higher initial purchase price compared to conventional vehicles. However, this cost difference is decreasing as technology improves and economies of scale kick in.

Limited model options: The number of electric car models available on the market is increasing, but it’s still limited compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The choices may be more restricted in certain segments or specific vehicle types.

Limited used market: The used market for electric cars is not as mature as that for gasoline cars. This can make finding a used electric vehicle more challenging, and resale values may be more variable.

Availability of charging options at home: Charging an electric car at home is convenient, but it may require installing a dedicated charging station or upgrading your electrical infrastructure, which can add to the overall cost.

Electric grid capacity: Widespread adoption of electric cars could put additional strain on the electric grid, especially during peak charging times. Upgrades to the grid may be necessary to support increased demand.

Environmental impact of battery production: The production of electric vehicle batteries has an environmental impact, primarily due to the extraction and processing of raw materials like lithium and cobalt. Recycling and responsible disposal of batteries are essential.

Limited towing capacity: Electric cars, especially smaller models, often have limited towing capacity compared to some gasoline-powered vehicles. If you regularly tow heavy loads, an electric car may not be the best choice.

Maintenance and repair costs: Electric cars generally have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than conventional vehicles. However, repairs and replacements of battery packs can be expensive, and finding qualified technicians for certain brands or models may be challenging.

Limited performance options: While electric cars can be incredibly fast and offer excellent acceleration, the market for high-performance electric vehicles is still evolving. The options available in terms of sports cars or performance-oriented vehicles may be more limited.

Limited availability of public charging stations: Although public charging stations are becoming more common, their availability can still be limited in certain regions or areas. Planning your trips to ensure access to charging infrastructure is crucial, especially on long journeys.

Noise level differences: Electric cars are generally quieter than their gasoline counterparts because they lack a traditional internal combustion engine. While this can be a benefit for some, others may find it disorienting or prefer the traditional engine noise.

Weight and size: Electric cars tend to be heavier than similar-sized gasoline vehicles due to the weight of the battery packs. This additional weight can affect handling and overall performance.

Insurance costs: Insurance rates for electric cars can sometimes be higher than for conventional vehicles. This is due to factors such as higher vehicle cost, specialized repair requirements, and limited availability of qualified repair facilities.

Limited availability of charging options for apartment dwellers: If you live in an apartment or don’t have access to dedicated parking, charging an electric car can be challenging. Installing public or shared charging infrastructure may not always be feasible or convenient.

Evolving technology: Electric car technology is evolving rapidly, with advancements in battery technology, range, charging speed, and other features happening frequently. Keeping up with the latest developments can be important to make informed decisions about purchasing an electric car.