Debunking EV Myths in 2023
Sustainability and environmental impact are some of the biggest issues affecting the world at large today. Whether you're focused on helping the environment or reducing your waste, an electric vehicle can be a sustainable solution for all walks of life.
With the U.S. federal government promising tax incentives for new owners of electric vehicles (EVs), they are now at the top of everybody's mind. But with hot topics at the forefront of public consciousness, it goes without saying that some electric vehicle myths are sure to follow.
In this post, we'll tackle the top EV myths in the world today, debunk them, and then go over the benefits of electric cars and their impact on the world at large.
Myth: Electric Vehicles Have a Massive Carbon Footprint
The most common myth surrounding EVs is that they have a greater carbon footprint than gas-powered cars and trucks. This isn't necessarily true, as EVs typically have smaller carbon footprints.
Even when you account for the electricity EVs use to power cars (usually sourced from power plants), EVs have a much lower impact on the environment. In a recent study from MIT, they noted that electric vehicles emit 200 grams of CO2 per mile, while gas cars emit 350 grams of CO2 per mile.
Myth: Battery Manufacturing for EVs Is Worse for the Environment Than Gasoline Cars
While battery manufacturing could go a long way toward being more sustainable and environmentally friendly, there are several benefits of batteries that many people don't account for.
Though the process of creating a battery will release CO2 into the environment, the total emissions from manufacturing to daily use of an electric vehicle are lower than those from a car that runs on gasoline.
The manufacturing process for a battery typically uses more emissions than what it takes to produce a traditional vehicle, but over the lifetime of each type of car, electric vehicles have a significantly reduced impact on the environment.
Myth: Charging Stations Are Few and Far Between
Many people will say that charging stations are hard to come by. However, in 2023, there are more than 49,000 across the United States — and this number is only growing as electric vehicles become more popular.
Even better? You can charge many electric vehicles at home with a standard 120 volt outlet. Add solar power to your at-home sustainability practices and you can become an environmental superhero.
Myth: EVs Won't Save Money Because My Electric Bill Will Increase
It's a common misconception that you won't save money after purchasing an electric vehicle. Though your electric bill will likely rise, the truth is that electricity is far less expensive and volatile than gasoline — by far.
If you're like the average person and drive 14,000+ miles per year with 27 miles to the gallon, your gasoline prices run at about $2,000 per year. Electric cars, on the other hand, go about four miles per one kilowatt-hour, which costs around 10 cents — about 2.3 cents per mile. This means that you'd only pay about $383 per year for electricity and fueling your electric car — about $1,600 less than a traditional gas vehicle.
Now that you know all the (now debunked) myths associated with electric cars, you can feel more confident driving one off the dealer's lot — but don't forget about your auto insurance.
Electric cars benefit from new EV tax credits and offer numerous environmental benefits. Here's an infographic from The Zebra, summarizing these benefits and debunking myths commonly associated with EVs -
INFOGRAPC FROM - thezebra.com/are-electric-cars-worth-it