As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, many potential buyers find themselves intrigued but uncertain about making the switch from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Misconceptions, concerns about cost, and questions about practicality often stand in the way. In this article, we’ll address these issues, highlight the benefits, and share insights from residents at The Cape, Australia’s most electrified estate, where over 30% of households own an EV.
Common Misconceptions About Electric Vehicles
One of the biggest myths about EVs is that they lack power and performance compared to their petrol counterparts. However, modern EVs deliver instant torque, resulting in rapid acceleration that can rival, and often surpass traditional vehicles. For instance, the Tesla Model 3 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds. Check out this clip of a Holden muscle car vs a Hyundai EV.
Another misconception is that EVs are only suitable for short trips due to limited range. Yet, advancements in battery technology have extended the range of many models to over 400 kilometers on a single charge. For example, Cape resident John notes that his Polestar has a range of approximately 400 km, allowing him to easily travel from Cape Paterson (about 1.5 hours south of Melbourne) to Melbourne Airport and back with charge to spare. The Tesla Model 3 long range will travel even longer on a single charge.
A common concern is the time it takes to charge an EV. Most of the charging of EVs is done in the comfort of home – the majority of EV owners will arrive home, plug in the car as they exit the garage and the car will have a full battery by the next time they want to use the vehicle. A home charger will provide between 20 and 70 kms of range per hour. Plugging in at home takes a few seconds and many workplaces now have trickle feed EV charging available for staff.
If using a fast charger it is recommended to keep the battery charged between 10% and 80%, which can be achieved in just 15-20 minutes using a fast charger. According to the Australian Government’s Green Vehicles Guide, charging the battery to 80% whenever possible maximises battery range and lifespan. If charging at a fast charger, it’s considered courteous to limit your charge to 80%, as the last 20% takes significantly longer to complete. Cape resident Laurie, shares that during long-distance trips, he plans brief stops every 2-3 hours to top up the charge, stretch his legs, and grab a coffee or a bite to eat—making the trip safer and more enjoyable.
Charging costs can also be a concern, but when compared to the cost of filling up a petrol car, EVs offer significant savings. According to the AAA’s transport afforability report, the average household in Australia spends around $100 per week on petrol, while charging an EV at home can be done at a fraction of that cost. Cape resident, John, mentions that unless he’s traveling, he always charges his car at home using excess solar energy, which costs him little to nothing. In country areas like The Cape, where people tend to travel longer distances by car, driving a long-range EV can save thousands of dollars per annum in fuel and maintenance costs compared to a petrol vehicle.
Hurdles to EV Adoption
Despite the growing interest in EVs, several hurdles remain:
Upfront Costs: According to the 2024 AADA statistics report, 57% of respondents identified the initial cost as a hurdle to purchasing an EV. While the initial purchase price of an EV is typically higher than that of a petrol vehicle, the rise of the second-hand EV market and mid-term savings on fuel and maintenance can make the overall cost of ownership lower. It’s also worth noting that the running costs of an EV are typically 70% cheaper per kilometer compared to traditional vehicles according to Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide.
Charging Infrastructure: Concerns about the availability of charging stations can deter potential buyers. While home charging is convenient, public charging networks are expanding rapidly, making long-distance travel more feasible. According to the latest Australian EV Industry Recap, the number of EVs in Australia has more than doubled in the past year with the number now exceeding 180,000, and the number of charging stations has nearly doubled.
Range Anxiety: The fear of running out of charge on a journey is a significant concern for many. However, with better battery technology and more widespread charging stations, this anxiety is becoming less justified. John explains that when his Polestar is running low on charge, the vehicle alerts him to the nearest charging station and the quickest route. If the battery level is low the car enters “turtle mode,” limiting the speed to conserve charge.
Insurance and Maintenance Costs: Some believe that insuring and maintaining an EV is more expensive than a traditional car. While insurance can be slightly higher, maintenance costs are generally lower due to fewer moving parts and the absence of oil changes and timing belts. It’s worth noting, however, that repair times could be longer depending on the EV make due to the limited number of authorised repair centers, so it’s advisable to ensure that your insurance policy includes a replacement car as part of the cover.
The Cape: Leading the Charge in Electrification
The Cape community sets a national precedent with over 30% of its residents owning an EV including Tesla, BYD, Kia, Hyundai, MG, and Polestar models. This all-electric estate is designed with sustainability in mind, with all homes wired for easy EV charging as standard, and many residents using surplus solar energy generated on their rooftops. The community also benefits from a shared EV fast charger, making it even more convenient to own and operate an electric vehicle.
Cape resident, Laurie, exemplifies the financial and environmental benefits of this lifestyle. After transitioning from a conventional home and car setup in suburban Melbourne to an all-electric home and EV at The Cape, Laurie has seen his annual energy costs drop from over $6,300 to under $1,000. Driving 30,000 kilometers in his EV over the past year has cost him just $600 in electricity—mostly incurred in the first few months before he changed his electricity plan and upgraded his solar battery—compared to the $3,700 he would have spent on petrol.
Key Considerations When Buying an EV
Long-Term Savings: While the initial cost of an EV may be higher, the savings on fuel, maintenance, and government incentives can make it a more economical choice in the long run.
Battery Life and Replacement: Modern EV batteries are designed to last for many years, often outlasting the vehicle itself. When the battery does reach the end of its life, recycling programs are increasingly available, reducing environmental impact.
Charging at Home and On the Go: Installing a home charger significantly boosts the convenience of owning an EV, allowing for easy overnight charging. As public charging stations continue to expand, long-distance travel is becoming increasingly hassle-free. Additionally, it’s important to review your electricity plan to ensure you’re getting the best rates when charging at home.
Environmental Impact: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, and when charged with renewable energy, can significantly reduce your carbon footprint compared to traditional vehicles.
The Experience of Driving an EV
For many, the transition to an EV comes with a learning curve, but the benefits soon outweigh the initial adjustments.
Miranda, another Cape resident, adds, “By the third time I drove the car, I was completely comfortable with it. It’s very easy to pick up everything, the car handles so much better than a regular car, I prefer it. Now I feel safe and more comfortable driving an EV, and the best part is—it’s fun!” Laurie, describes the shift as requiring a bit more planning for long trips, but emphasises that the convenience, savings, and environmental benefits make it well worth the effort. He also notes that range anxiety is comparable to concerns about running out of petrol, and that with practice, managing your EV’s battery becomes second nature.
Final Thoughts and Advice
If you’re considering an EV, take the time to research and understand the full picture. Visit The Cape to see real-world examples of how EVs can integrate seamlessly into a sustainable lifestyle. Current EV owners are generally enthusiastic about sharing their experiences, so don’t hesitate to ask questions, test drive different models, and consider your charging options at home and on the road. The future of transportation is electric, and with the right preparation, you can make a smooth and rewarding transition to an EV.
