We've been helping people charge their EVs for nearly 12 years, and during that time we’ve seen plenty of different myths about EVs surface. We busted some EV myths for you a while ago, and now it’s time to tackle another round of misconceptions. Here we take a look at some new myths that we’ve seen percolating and debunk them as soundly as we can.
Myth 1: We need to pay with credit cards—BUSTED
Some people think that credit cards are the only available payment method at EV charging stations. Although various countries will soon require credit card readers at public charging spots, cards are far from the only payment option available. Many drivers enjoy paying securely with a ChargePoint account that protects personal data, provides real-time updates on charging and tracks charging info. Your ChargePoint account even works with various other networks in Europe. Plus, you can always call us anytime at +44 (020) 7519 5052 and we'll help you start a charge over the phone, even if you don't have a ChargePoint account.
Myth 2: There aren’t enough affordable EV options—BUSTED
Several years ago, affordable EV options may have seemed limited to quirky models with under 100 miles of range. Now that automakers have expanded their offerings significantly, it’s possible to get hundreds of miles of range for less from affordable models like the Renault ZOE, Nissan LEAF, the Kia e-Niro and more. The wide variety of new 2020 EV models really offers something for everyone.
Myth 3: We need fast charging everywhere—BUSTED
Seeing a new fast charging spot is always exciting, and fast charging has an important role to play on long trips or when you’re in a hurry. At home or at your employer’s parking lot, you (mostly) won’t need a fast charger. However, the UK has a long way to go before all drivers can charge conveniently at home or at work, especially apartment-dwellers who need on-street charging. Until this ideal scenario becomes a reality, policymakers around Europe are calling for an expanded fast-charging network to support EVs. As we keep adding more chargers at home, at work, and in public, people will keep buying more electric cars and the ratio of chargers to vehicles will even out over time.
Myth 4: There are too many EV charging networks—PARTIALLY BUSTED
We all want to be able to charge our electric vehicles wherever we go. But not every charging station out there is on the same network. So what’s an EV driver to do? Take heart: charging providers are working to open up networks and create peer-to-peer roaming agreements like the ones we're setting up with other charging providers around the world. Peer-to-peer agreements let drivers access up-to-date info and get the best charging experience on both networks. We’re excited to keep working on making charging as easy as possible as we roll out these and other partnerships.
Myth 5: EV batteries are bad for the environment—PARTIALLY BUSTED
Sometimes people think that the environmental costs of EV batteries outweigh the benefits of driving electric. While it takes about a year for EVs to overcome the environmental impact of the materials used to make them, they still provide a substantial environmental benefit over time. And unlike oil and gas, batteries can be reused for grid infrastructure or backup power, as well as recycled to make more batteries.
"We found that battery electric cars generate half the emissions of the average comparable gasoline car, even when pollution from battery manufacturing is accounted for."
– Union of Concerned Scientists
Note: There are important concerns regarding the labour that is used to extract lithium, and we support automakers that are committed to sourcing lithium ethically.
A recent study by the University of Cambridge showed that in 95 percent of the world, electric vehicles are better for the climate. European countries lead the way by extending the share of clean energy used to fuel electric vehicles, enabling an ever more environmentally friendly EV future.
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