Myths About Electric Cars Debunked: What's Fact and What's Fiction?

As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident, discussions about eco-friendly solutions have become more ideologically charged. Disinformation has also crept into the arguments, contributing to confusion. On one hand, there's been true hype around electric mobility pioneers like Tesla, but on the other, negative headlines are on the rise, claiming electric cars are expensive, fire hazards, or even environmentally harmful. Numerous myths have formed around electric cars.

At CARIFY, we're here to dispel the most common myths about electric cars and tell you the truth.

Whether you're considering a Tesla, Mercedes, VW, Fiat, or any other electric model, it's essential to have accurate information.

Myth 1: Electric Cars Aren't Really Eco-Friendly

Electric cars produce no CO2 emissions, making them environmentally friendly at first glance, but some claim their production consumes an enormous amount of energy, often derived from fossil sources, which ultimately makes them less environmentally friendly than vehicles with internal combustion engines. Is there any truth to this?

Let's examine the facts. The production of batteries for electric cars does indeed require a significant amount of energy, often from fossil sources, emitting CO2 into the atmosphere.

Electric cars consume more energy in their production compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. However, the overall CO2 emissions over the battery and vehicle's lifespan must be considered. In this context, internal combustion engine vehicles no longer have a favorable position, as their CO2 emissions end up being between 70 and 90% higher than those of electric cars (depending on the source of the consumed electricity—green energy has the best impact). Volkswagen, for instance, already promises a carbon-neutral footprint for the ID.3.

Myth 2: Limited Range is a Dealbreaker

You might want to drive electrically, but you often cover long distances, and the common myth is that electric cars have limited range. If you only need the car for your daily commute, it's not a problem. However, when you have to commute longer distances or drive a lot for work, it's believed you need a gasoline car. Is that really the case?

Let's take a closer look.

The range of an electric car is determined by the battery's capacity, and advancements in this area are happening rapidly. Modern electric cars come with powerful batteries that can take you up to 550 km on a single charge. That means you can drive from Basel to Geneva and back without recharging. However, the range depends on your driving style, the vehicle's size, and the load. Smaller batteries offer a range starting from 150 km, which is sufficient for most daily needs.

Myth 3: Electric Cars Are Too Expensive

Some believe that only the wealthy can afford eco-friendly mobility. One of the myths about electric cars is that they are significantly more expensive than gasoline cars, especially with recent increases in electricity prices. Aren't maintenance costs also much higher? Like many other myths about electric cars, this one doesn't hold up under scrutiny. Electric cars are often pricier than gasoline cars in the same class, but the price gap is no longer as substantial.

Falling battery prices have significantly reduced the cost of electric new cars. In many cases, the difference in purchase price compared to equivalent gasoline cars is not as significant.

Small electric cars are now quite affordable, and in other vehicle categories, the purchase price is no longer an argument against environmentally friendly mobility. Moreover, several regions offer tax incentives for electric cars, which can offset the higher upfront cost within a few years. Despite rising electricity prices, electric vehicles are still more cost-effective to operate than gasoline or diesel vehicles.

The cost of electricity per kilometer is less than half the cost of gasoline, and you don't need oil changes or regular maintenance on electric cars, making them more economical in the long run.

Myth 4: Electric Cars Are Not Safe

Contrary to the myth about electric cars, newspapers are filled with reports of electric cars catching fire. Even the thought of charging in the rain can be frightening, and during a thunderstorm, you might feel like you're in a death trap.

Let's venture into the charged danger zone and take a closer look. We learn from a young age that electricity is dangerous, especially in conjunction with water as a conducting liquid.

However, strict regulations exist where danger is present. Electric cars that pose a constant threat to life and limb would never be approved. Despite the fearmongering, it's worth noting that gasoline is an effective accelerant that can also pose dangers. When examining statistics closely, there are 90 vehicle fires per 1 billion kilometers driven by gasoline cars, compared to only 2 for electric cars.

Daily vehicle fires involving conventional cars rarely make headlines, but the 20 electric car fires worldwide have garnered significant attention. Electric car batteries are designed to be safe even during rain. In the event of an accident, a safety system interrupts the battery's electrical flow.

Electric cars, including those from well-known brands like BMW, Porsche, and Volvo, are designed with safety in mind, making them a reliable and secure choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Myth 5: Charging Takes Too Long

First, electric cars have a limited range, and then you have to wait forever for the battery to charge. This makes you prefer the convenience of refueling at a gas station. Besides, gas stations are everywhere, but charging stations are scarce. You might even have to wait in line to charge.

Myth or reality? Let's find out.

The days of poor charging infrastructure are long gone. There are currently around 9,100 publicly available charging stations distributed across Switzerland, so the nearest charging station is rarely far away. You can find the locations in your area and check the availability of charging stations on the ich-tanke-strom.ch website. High-power charging stations are becoming more widespread, and charging at these stations takes only a few minutes.

You can use the charging time for a short break on long journeys.

Charging your electric vehicle at home with a wall box is especially convenient. If you have a photovoltaic system, the electricity is almost free. Many businesses now offer charging points for their employees' electric cars on company premises, making it even more convenient.

Myth 6: Electric Cars Are Just a Trend

Sure, climate change is a hot topic, and suddenly everything has to be sustainable and eco-friendly. But, like many other fads, this too shall pass. People will realize that electric cars are no good and go back to real cars.

Is someone out of touch with the times?

The ADAC conducted a survey on current mobility behavior, and the results are clear: most people surveyed would prefer to say goodbye to gasoline cars sooner rather than later. The trend toward electric cars is even more evident among hybrid vehicle owners.

Those who already drive fully electric vehicles are likely to remain loyal to this form of mobility. In this context, the only fading model is the internal combustion engine. Additionally, more cities and regions are setting emission limits. Only vehicles with low to no CO2 emissions will be allowed in environmental zones.

Conclusion: Inform Rather Than Speculate

We've debunked six of the most common myths about electric cars and can assure you that:

• Among all available propulsion methods, pure electric cars have the best environmental footprint.

• Advancements in battery performance, charging infrastructure, and charging speed are happening rapidly. Electric cars are already a reliable option for short and medium distances, with ranges of up to 550 km.

• New electric cars are priced similarly to their gasoline counterparts, and government incentives, energy efficiency, and lower maintenance costs make electric cars even more cost-effective.

• Electric cars are far safer than the myths suggest. Their batteries are designed to be safe, even in wet conditions, and strict safety standards apply.

• The charging infrastructure in Switzerland is excellent and continually improving, with short charging times at high-power stations and convenient home charging options.

• The future belongs to environmentally friendly forms of mobility like electric cars. Curious to learn more? At CARIFY, you can explore the world of electromobility with a non-binding car subscription. Many of our vehicles come with electric drive options. Discover the benefits!

FAQs:

Why don't electric cars have a future?

Electric cars are the future due to political will and the evident effects of climate change. Fossil energy reserves are depleting, and even synthetic fuels like E-Fuels can't compete. Renewable energy is driving the future of mobility.

Is the electric car truly the future?

After 2035, new internal combustion engine vehicles won't be permitted throughout the EU. Environmentally friendly, emissions-free vehicles like electric cars represent our mobile future.

Is an electric car genuinely eco-friendly?

Electric cars run quietly and emit no noxious exhaust fumes. While battery production consumes energy, electric cars currently have a superior environmental profile.

Is an electric car still worthwhile?

Yes, gasoline cars will soon be relegated to automotive museums. Thanks to government incentives and improved energy efficiency, electric cars offer a cost-effective mode of transportation today.