EVs are becoming more popular for several reasons. First and foremost, they can save you money on gas. But there are also some things to consider before making the switch. While EVs have higher initial costs, they are cheaper to maintain and repair. EVs also have longer driving ranges than other vehicles, and some can reach up to 400 miles between charges. Also, some EVs are designed for start-and-stop driving during rush hour, but will consume more battery power if you drive at a constant speed. Furthermore, electric cars tend to drain battery power more quickly when running air conditioning or heating, so you should plan accordingly.
Incentives for electric vehicles range from a cash grant to tax credits. Incentives vary from state to state, but in general, states have a policy that encourages EV use. For example, Colorado has a $4,000 tax credit available until 2021 for light-duty electric vehicles, while Connecticut offers a $38 biennial vehicle registration fee for EVs. Other incentives include tax credits and rebates, alternative fuel technology loans, and a zero emission requirement for government fleets.
The advent of electric vehicles in the United States has spurred a number of technological innovations. The first electric cars were modified versions of cars, such as the AMC Gremlin. This model was developed with a 50-mile range. However, the oil industry campaign aimed to discredit electric cars, and public acceptance decreased. In fact, in 2005, a movie titled Who Killed the Electric Car explored the role of automobile manufacturers, oil companies, U.S. government, batteries, hydrogen vehicles, and the general public in the EV revolution.
Today, EVs come in two varieties, ranging from 3kW to 7Kw, depending on how much power they need to operate. The slow-charging stations are usually overnight, but aren’t the most efficient. Fast-charging stations are installed in car parks, supermarkets, and leisure centers. EVs with rapid capabilities require a higher-speed charging station. These are generally 43 kW. The average MPGe rating of an EV is between 50 to 60 miles.
In the United States, the federal goal is to increase the number of EVs in the country by 2030 to 50%. Individual states have adopted much more ambitious targets. India recently extended its national EV subsidy program until 2024. In addition, the government has doubled its incentive programs for electric two-wheelers. Further, governments should support public procurement schemes that demonstrate EV technology and enable the industry to scale up production. These incentives can go a long way towards helping the electric vehicles industry become more widespread.
In Europe, EVs’ market share will increase dramatically in the 2020s. About two-thirds of EVs will be battery electric vehicles. The increase in electric vehicle fleet was fueled by Europe. As Europe became the leading EV market, China followed with 1.2 million registrations. The United States remained third with 295 000 registrations. Eventually, all light-duty vehicles will be zero-emission. This will help in curbing air pollution and reducing emissions.
