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 EV Myths Welcome to Glyn Hopkin’s in-depth guide to debunking common electric vehicle (EV) myths about range, charging, costs and more.
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EV Myth Busting:

10 common misconceptions about EV cars As a leading automotive retailer, we’re well aware that misinformation can create unnecessary barriers to the adoption of electrified vehicles. This guide is designed to address these misconceptions head-on, providing verified facts which set the record straight.
MYTH 1:

The UK power grid can’t cope with electric cars

A widespread myth suggests that the UK's power grid can’t handle an increase in demand should a large number of drivers switch to EVs. However, this is not supported by evidence. The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) states that the UK grid could "comfortably handle" a switch to EVs, even if this were to occur overnight. This assurance stems from significant technological advancements and efficiencies achieved over the past two decades, leading to a 16% reduction in overall electricity demand.

Additionally, EVs offer a unique advantage: they store excess energy generated from renewable sources, which can be fed back into the grid during peak demand periods. This capability, known as vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, plays a critical role in balancing supply and demand, enhancing grid stability. For instance, popular models such as the Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe and Kia Soul EV are equipped with V2G technology, making them suppliers, not just consumers, of electricity.

Smart charging – where EVs are charged during low-demand periods, typically at night – can reduce the impact on peak electricity demand by as much as 60%, further ensuring the grid's stability. With smart charging, drivers can program their vehicles to charge during off-peak hours, optimising both cost and efficiency.

Moreover, the shift towards renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, has been substantial. As of 2023, renewable energy accounted for over 40% of the UK's electricity generation. The integration of EVs with renewable energy systems means that they can effectively utilise clean energy, further reducing their carbon footprint.
MYTH 2

The UK doesn't have enough charging stations for electric cars

The UK doesn’t have enough charging stations for electric cars Another common misconception is that the UK lacks sufficient EV charging infrastructure. While there is room for growth, the current infrastructure is expanding rapidly. Public chargepoints have seen a substantial increase, with various initiatives underway to install more, particularly in urban areas.

Brands such as Kia, Nissan and Renault have been at the forefront of promoting and expanding the charging network. Third-party companies like bp pulse and Pod Point are crucial players in this respect, enhancing the availability of charging stations.

According to Zapmap, 80% of EV drivers charge their vehicles at home, using low-energy tariffs available during off-peak hours. This trend indicates that the demand for public chargepoints is not as strained as some might believe. Government schemes like the Electric vehicle chargepoint grant further support home charging installations.

Urban areas such as London and Birmingham are seeing a rise in public chargepoints, including rapid chargers. Workplace charging stations are also increasing, aiding those without home charging options and promoting broader EV adoption./a>
MYTH 3:

You can't replace or recycle electric car batteries

There’s a persistent myth that EV batteries can’t be replaced or recycled, leading to significant environmental waste. In reality, EV batteries are both replaceable and recyclable. Manufacturers like Renault and Nissan offer extensive warranties on their batteries, typically covering eight years or 100,000 miles. For instance, popular models like the Nissan Leaf and Renault ZOE come with such warranties, ensuring motoring peace of mind regarding battery longevity and reliability.

The industry is also making significant strides in battery recycling technologies. It’s now possible to extract valuable minerals such as cobalt, nickel, manganese and lithium from old batteries, which can then be used in the production of new batteries. This recycling not only reduces waste but also diminishes the demand for raw materials, thereby lessening the environmental impact of mining. Dacia and Suzuki are among the many manufacturers investing in sustainable battery practices.

Furthermore, the recycling process is becoming increasingly efficient. For example, Renault has partnered with Veolia and Solvay to enhance the efficiency of recycling used EV batteries. Similarly, Nissan is involved in initiatives to repurpose old batteries for energy storage systems. These advancements demonstrate the industry's commitment to sustainability.

The global EV battery recycling industry is expected to grow substantially, projected to be worth £5.3 billion by 2028. This growth is driven by the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road, further emphasising the importance of sustainable battery management. As recycling technologies evolve, the environmental footprint of EVs will continue to shrink, dispelling the myth of unmanageable battery waste.
MYTH 4:

Electric cars aren't environmentally friendly

Some argue that EVs aren’t environmentally friendly due to the emissions associated with battery production and electricity generation. However, research by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) shows that EVs repay their carbon debt relatively quickly. This is significant given the growing popularity of EVs across various brands. For example, the Nissan Leaf, Renault ZOE and Kia Niro EV are common sights on UK roads, each benefiting from the country's greener grid. Additionally, the UK grid's shift towards renewable energy sources further enhances the sustainability of EVs. Currently, 67% of the UK's power comes from zero-carbon sources, including wind, solar and nuclear energy. As this percentage grows, the environmental impact of charging EVs is set to further decrease. Also, the production of EV batteries is becoming more efficient and environmentally friendly. Advances in battery technology and recycling methods are reducing the overall carbon footprint. Thus, as the automotive industry evolves, the long-term environmental benefits of EVs continue to improve.

Are Hybrid Cars eco Friendly?

Hybrid cars (which combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor) represent a transitional technology towards full electrification. They are more eco-friendly than traditional petrol/diesel cars, as they emit fewer harmful emissions, helping to mitigate climate change and improve air quality.

For example, Suzuki Swace and Renault Captur E-Tech hybrids offer significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to their non-hybrid counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for those not yet ready to switch to fully electric vehicles. Similarly, the Kia Niro Hybrid and the Nissan Qashqai e-Power/Mild Hybrid also provide substantial environmental benefits while maintaining the convenience of a traditional internal combustion engine. Moreover, performance-oriented hybrids such as the Suzuki Swift Sport further demonstrate the versatility and potential of hybrid technology in various market segments.

It should be noted that hybrids still rely on fossil fuels and are not as environmentally beneficial as 100% electric vehicles. Nevertheless, they serve as a practical and immediate solution for reducing environmental impact, offering a stepping stone for motorists toward fully electric mobility.

MYTH 5:

Electric cars are much slower than petrol cars

The myth that electric cars are slower than petrol cars no longer applies. Today’s EVs offer impressive acceleration and speed, often surpassing their petrol counterparts. For instance, the Kia EV6 GT races from 0-62 mph in just 3.5 seconds. It’s a good example of how modern electric vehicles deliver power, responsiveness and driving pleasure, making the outmoded belief that they are slower than petrol cars a thing of the past.
MYTH 6:

It is more expensive to maintain an electric car than petrol or diesel?

Contrary to popular myth, EVs typically cost significantly less to maintain than petrol or diesel cars. One of the main reasons for this is that EVs have fewer moving parts. For example, the Nissan Leaf and Kia EV6 have far fewer components that can wear out or require replacement compared to their combustion-engined counterparts. Also, EVs don’t need oil changes, which eliminates a routine and often costly part of car maintenance. Furthermore, components like brakes tend to last longer in EVs due to regenerative braking systems; this technology features in models like the Renault ZOE and Dacia Spring . Regenerative braking reduces wear and tear on brake pads by using the electric motor to slow down the vehicle, thus converting kinetic energy back into stored energy in the battery.

Data from BookMyGarage.com highlights that the overall maintenance bills for EVs are as much as 43% lower than those for vehicles powered by petrol or diesel. These maintenance savings costs contribute to the overall cost-effectiveness of owning an EV. Alongside other benefits such as lower fuel costs and government incentives, this underscores the financial advantages of switching to an electric vehicle.
MYTH 7:

EVs are the cheapest cars to insure

While it is true that some EVs have higher insurance premiums, it’s not universally the case; insurance costs can vary significantly depending on the make and model. Factors such as repair bills, and the availability of specialist repairers, heavily influence premiums too. For example, Teslas typically cost more to insure due to higher parts costs and specialised repair requirements. However, models produced by manufacturers like Kia, MG and Renault can have comparable or even lower insurance costs than their petrol/diesel counterparts.

The MG ZS EV, for instance, is often cited for its affordability, not just in respect of purchase price but also in terms of insurance. Similarly, the Dacia Spring and Renault ZOE are popular European cars due to their cost-effectiveness, which extends to their insurance premiums.

As insurers become more familiar with EV technology and repair processes, premiums are expected to decrease. This growing familiarity will lead to more accurate risk assessments and potentially lower repair costs as parts become more readily available. Furthermore, collaborations between manufacturers and insurance companies, such as those seen with Nissan and Alpine , can also contribute to more competitive pricing. As the market for EVs grows and matures, insurance costs are likely to become more competitive, which can only benefit consumers.
MYTH 8:

Electric cars are a high fire risk

The belief that EVs are more prone to catching fire than petrol cars isn’t supported by the facts. Indeed, statistics reveal a stark contrast in favour of EV safety. For instance, data from the National Transportation Safety Board in the US indicates that there are 25 fires per 100,000 battery-powered vehicles sold. In comparison, petrol and diesel vehicles experience a significantly higher rate of 1,530 fires per 100,000 vehicles. This suggests that traditional combustion-engined vehicles are about 20 times more likely to catch fire than their electric counterparts.

Looking at the situation in the UK, the numbers further debunk the myth. Between 2022 and 2023, there were approximately 100,000 vehicle fires, of which only 239 involved EVs. This is a clear indication that EVs, such as those produced by Nissan, Renault and Kia, are inherently safer regarding fire risks compared to conventional petrol and diesel models.

Moreover, manufacturers like Alpine, Dacia, MG, Renault and Suzuki , have been increasingly investing in EV technology, prioritising safety and reliability.

The aforementioned figures and industry trends highlight that EVs, despite what you may have heard, are less likely to catch fire compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars. The misconception of EVs being a higher fire risk is thus thoroughly debunked.
MYTH 9:

Hydrogen will overtake electric cars

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) have often been heralded as the future of clean transportation due to their potential for zero emissions and quick refuelling times. However, their widespread adoption faces significant challenges that hinder their practicality and popularity.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), there are only 72,000 hydrogen fuel cell cars on roads worldwide, a stark contrast to the 27 million EVs currently in use. This disparity highlights the steep uphill battle FCVs face in becoming a mainstream choice.

In the UK, the infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles is severely lacking, with just 11 hydrogen filling stations available across the country. This limited infrastructure makes it difficult for potential FCV owners to refuel conveniently, creating a significant barrier to adoption. In contrast, EVs benefit from a rapidly expanding network of charging stations, making them far more accessible and user-friendly.

Moreover, hydrogen cars are less energy efficient and more expensive to operate than their electric counterparts. UK government analysis indicates that the lifecycle emissions from a hydrogen passenger car would be 60% to 70% higher than those of an EV, even if hydrogen is produced from low-carbon sources. This is due to the energy-intensive process of producing, storing, and transporting hydrogen compared to the relatively straightforward process of generating and distributing electricity for EVs.

Due to their high energy density and fast refuelling capabilities, FCVs have niche applications – heavy goods vehicles, for example. However, they’re highly unlikely to replace EVs in the passenger car market. Models like the Kia EV6, MG ZS EV, Nissan Leaf and Renault ZOE illustrate the broad acceptance and integration of EVs into daily life, offering practical, efficient and increasingly affordable options for consumers. The EV market is further bolstered by continuous advancements in battery technology, which promise longer ranges and shorter charging times, solidifying EVs' place in the future of personal transportation.
MYTH 10:

Installing a home charging station isn't worth it

Installing a home chargepoint is often seen as unnecessary or too costly by some, but this perception overlooks the significant benefits and cost savings it can provide. For instance, home charging offers unparalleled convenience, as it allows EV owners to charge their vehicles overnight using low-cost electricity tariffs. This practice can reduce charging costs significantly, often making it cheaper than using public charging stations. For example, charging a Nissan Leaf or a Renault ZOE overnight can be more economical, taking advantage of lower electricity rates compared to daytime tariffs.

Moreover, various government grants and incentives are available to offset the installation costs of home chargepoints. In many cases, these incentives can cover a substantial portion of installation expenses, making it more affordable for homeowners. For example, the aforementioned Electric vehicle chargepoint grant incentivises home chargepoint installations, reducing the financial burden on EV owners.
br> The convenience of having a fully charged vehicle every morning outweighs the initial investment. This daily readiness is particularly advantageous for busy individuals or families who rely on their vehicles for commuting or other activities.

Additionally, the long-term savings on fuel costs and reduced wear and tear on EV batteries from regular charging cycles contribute to overall cost-effectiveness.

Therefore, installing a home chargepoint is a worthwhile addition for EV owners, enhancing both convenience and cost-effectiveness in the long run.
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