Electric cars have been around for quite some time, but only in recent years have they become a more viable option for everyday drivers. With the growing awareness of climate change and the push for greener transportation, electric cars are rapidly gaining popularity. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the rise of electric cars and what you need to know if you’re considering making the switch.
The Growth of Electric Cars
In the UK, the number of new electric car registrations has been steadily increasing over the past few years. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in 2019 there were over 37,000 new electric cars registered, representing a 144% increase from the previous year. And in 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, electric car registrations continued to rise, with a total of 108,205 new electric cars registered, an increase of 180.9% from the previous year. With a steady increase each year, it’s no surprise that electric vehicles reached their largest-ever monthly market share in December 2022, accounting for almost a third of all new cars sold. Throughout 2022, electric car represented almost 17% of sales, surpassing sales of new diesel cars for the first time.
Benefits of Electric Cars
Lower Costs and Tax Benefits
One of the main reasons why electric cars are becoming more popular is that they can be cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. Although electric cars can be more expensive to purchase, they can be significantly cheaper to maintain and fuel. The cost of electricity is lower than the cost of petrol or diesel, so you’ll currently spend less on fuel when charging at home. Additionally, electric cars require less maintenance and they have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars. This can save you money on maintenance and repairs over the lifetime of the car.
Another benefit of electric cars is that they may be eligible for tax benefits.
In the UK, for example, electric cars are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) and the London Congestion Charge. They may also be eligible for reduced company car tax rates, making them a more attractive option for businesses.
Environmental Benefits
One of the main reasons why people are switching to electric cars is for the environmental benefits. Electric cars produce zero emissions, which means they don’t contribute to air pollution. This is particularly important in cities, where air pollution can be a serious problem. By driving an electric car, you can help to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.
In addition to producing zero emissions, electric cars can also be powered by renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. This means that electric cars have the potential to be completely emissions-free, from the production of the energy used to power them to their use on the road.
Improved Performance and Range
One of the main concerns people have about electric cars is that they may not be as powerful or have the same range as petrol or diesel cars. However, this is no longer the case. Advances in technology have led to electric cars with improved performance and longer ranges.
For example, the Tesla Model S has a range of up to 379 miles on a single charge, while the Hyundai Kona Electric has a range of up to 300 miles. This means that electric cars can now be used for longer journeys without the need for frequent recharging.
In addition to improved range, electric cars can also offer better performance than petrol or diesel cars. Electric cars have instant torque, which means they can accelerate quickly from a standstill. This can make electric cars more fun to drive and provide a smoother driving experience.
Challenges of Electric Cars
Anxiety
Despite their benefits, there are still some challenges associated with electric cars. One of the main concerns is range anxiety, which is the fear that the car will run out of battery power before reaching the destination. However, with the advancement in battery technology, the range of electric cars is constantly increasing.
Charging Infrastructure
One of the main concerns people have about electric cars is that there may not be enough charging infrastructure available to support them. However, this is no longer the case. The UK government has committed to installing thousands of charging points across the country, and there are now more than 25,000 charging points available.
There are different types of charging points available, including rapid chargers that can provide a full charge in as little as 30 minutes. Additionally, many public charging points are now free to use, making electric cars an even more attractive option.
Is an Electric Car Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision to switch to an electric car depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you mainly drive short distances and have access to charging facilities, an electric car could be a great option for you. However, if you frequently travel long distances or live in an area with limited charging infrastructure, a traditional petrol or diesel car might still be the better choice.
At Treadfirst, we understand the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest trends in the automotive industry. That’s why we offer a range of services for electric cars, including tyre fitting, wheel alignment, and brake servicing. If you’re considering making the switch to an electric car, we can help ensure that your vehicle is in top condition.
