Top 10 EV Myths Dispelled - Part I

Electric vehicles are growing in popularity, but a number of lingering misconceptions are still drifting out there in the public consciousness. To help debunk some of the outdated and misleading information floating around, we spoke to Michele K. , NYPA’s eMobility Program Marketing Manager, who helps us celebrate National Drive Electric Week.

Myth #1: EVs have limited range and are impractical for long trips

Michele says: “Not true. The average range of an EV is estimated to be between 250-500 miles, with the median range for 2023 models being 270 miles. ?EVolve NY fast chargers, plus many other networks, are available to get you charged in under 20 mins. This is a reasonable amount of time to stop and stretch your legs, grab a cup of coffee, and take a short break which is recommended on a long road trip. ?Check out our ‘Trip Planner’ to see how long distance in an EV is easy and practical.”

Myth #2: EVs are too expensive for most people

Michele says:

“There are both State and Federal rebates offered coupled with competitive pricing opportunities. The Drive Clean Rebate offers electric vehicle (EV) buyers up to $2,000 off the purchase or lease of 60+ new EV models. Combine that with an?Inflation Reduction Act tax credit?of up to $7,500, and it’s an opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss.? And some EVs are currently leasing for less than their gas-powered counterparts.”

Myth #3: EVs are slow and have poor performance

Michele says:

“The opposite is true. Many EVs have impressive acceleration and instant torque, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience. Some high-performing EV’s even rival traditional sports cars in terms of speed. Additionally, according to my co-worker, Hugo Jule-Quintanilla , handling can typically be better than a gas vehicle because the battery is placed on the bottom of the EV—between front and rear axles—which gives it a low center of gravity.” ?

Myth #4: Charging EVs takes too long

Michele says:

“With a fast charger such as the EVolve NY network of chargers, you can charge in as little as 20 mins. This is perfect for long distance travel. ??And there are many instances when a slower charger is perfectly convenient–like when you are sleeping at a hotel that offers EV charging.? And charging an EV at your home is so much more convenient than visiting a gas station.”

Myth #5: EV batteries don’t last long and are expensive to replace

Michele says:

“Unlike starter batteries used in gasoline vehicles, electric vehicle drivetrain batteries are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and recent data shows they have very low failure rates. A recent study of about 15,000 vehicles from the earliest models through model year 2023 showed that electric vehicle battery replacements due to failure have been rare, at an average of 2.5%, outside of major recalls.

Vehicle and battery technologies have improved since 2010, when modern EVs first entered the market, and since model year 2016 they have had less than a 0.5% failure rate. Many of these batteries would have been covered as part of the manufacturer's warranty.? EV battery warranties are generally for eight years.

Stay tuned for Part II of our EV Myths Debunked series!