Are Electric Vehicles Becoming More Convenient for the Modern Driver?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, with significant numbers of people choosing to drive these environmentally friendly vehicles. Currently, it is estimated that over 6.75 million EVs were sold worldwide in 2021, bringing the cumulative total to 17.5 million. While the number of light vehicles driven by EVs represents only a fraction of the total, this figure is growing exponentially, outpacing the decline in overall car sales.

Convenience vs. Inconvenience: A Personalized Experience

When it comes to driving EVs, convenience and inconvenience are highly individualized. According to many drivers, there are three main categories: things that are unequivocally convenient, things that are unequivocally inconvenient, and things that are situation-specific.

Things that are Convenient

No need to stop for gas ever. More storage space since the front end no longer needs a large engine.

Things that are Inconvenient

Even fast charging can still be quite slow. EVs are less adaptable to various driving circumstances. Range is significantly impacted by cold weather.

Storeroom Factors

Charging at home or at work can be convenient if available, but can be a significant problem if not. Long charge times, even with fast chargers, can be irrelevant for daily urban use but a hassle for longer trips. The quiet operation of EVs is a matter of personal preference. EVs may meet the needs of some city-dwellers but can be inconvenient for others who use their vehicles for a wider range of activities.

Owning an EV: A Growing Convenience

For many drivers, owning an EV is very convenient, especially if they have access to a place to charge it at home or work. In the USA, most people do, even though a large minority still don’t. Virtually all EV owners charge their vehicles overnight at home, allowing them to leave with a full “tank” each morning. This process takes just a few seconds to plug in and unplug, making it as easy as charging a phone.

Conclusion

The number of people driving electric vehicles is increasing, with significant sales growth in recent years. While there are still challenges related to charging and range, the trend is moving towards greater convenience for the modern driver. As infrastructure continues to improve and technology advances, we can expect to see EVs becoming an increasingly prevalent and convenient choice for drivers around the world.