Exploring the Pros and Cons of Electric Vehicles

Global warming and climate change are major problems that have long-term effects on the earth. The transportation sector contributes almost 20% of global greenhouse emissions. The quest for more sustainable and eco-friendly modes of transportation has led experts to switch towards EVs. But before switching to an EV, it's important to understand the pros and cons of this vehicle. So fasten your seatbelts and join us as we explore electric vehicles' pros and cons.

What is Electric Vehicle?

Electric vehicles or EVs are powered by electricity instead of fossil fuels like petroleum and diesel. EVs use batteries for power motors which in turn are connected to the wheels through axles.

• EVs are becoming increasingly popular as an environmentally friendly form of transportation.
• They are cheaper to maintain and operate than their gasoline-powered counterparts.
• EVs are available in many sizes, from small two-seaters to large family-sized SUVs

Types of EVs

There are three main types of EVs,

• HEV
• PHEV
• EV

HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle)

A hybrid electric vehicle utilises the combined power of a gasoline engine and electric motor to set the vehicle in motion.. Depending on the type of HEV, the battery present in the HEV can be charged either by using a plug-in charger or through a regenerative braking mechanism. The transmission system can be driven by both an electric motor and IC engine simultaneously in an HEV.

PHEV (Plug-in Electric Vehicle)

When compared to HEV, PHEVs have a larger battery pack. HEVs cannot be completely driven by the battery whereas a PHEV can be entirely powered by batteries. It can be charged via an external outlet or a regenerative braking mechanism similar to HEVs. Here, the driver can choose the mode of diving(Battery driven or Fuel powered).

EV (Electric Vehicles)/ BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles)

Electric vehicles lack an IC Engine. Electricity is stored in a massive battery pack which is charged by connecting to the power grid. The battery pack, in turn, powers one or more electric motors that drive the electric vehicle.

EVs of all sizes are now available from more automakers, including 

• BMW
• Mercedes Benz 
• Hyundai
• Chevrolet
• Tata
• MG
• Kia

Pros of Electric Vehicles

Energy Efficiency

The amount of energy converted from a fuel source into actual energy for powering a vehicle's wheels is referred to as energy efficiency. 

The EVs produced by  Tesla, are far more efficient than traditional gas-powered vehicles. Its batteries convert 59% to 62% of energy into vehicle movement, whereas gas-powered vehicles convert only 17% to 21%.

Environment-Friendly

EVs are environmentally friendly; they have,

• Lower emissions
• Lower carbon footprint
• Noise less

Adopting EVs can eliminate tailpipe emissions, which can reduce the impact of air pollutants in the atmosphere. Also, nowadays manufacturers are implementing new technologies to recycle used batteries efficiently which further enhances sustainability development. The advancement of battery technology in today's light-duty EVs allows users to travel 100 miles while consuming only 25 to 40 kilowatt-hours (kWh).

Low Maintenance

EVs require less maintenance than gasoline-powered vehicles, with fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes. EVs offer improved performance over gasoline-powered vehicles. They have instant torque, meaning they can accelerate quickly and efficiently. They are quieter and smoother than gasoline-powered vehicles, making driving more pleasant. 

Cons of Electric Vehicles

Higher Cost

Electric vehicles are typically more expensive than conventional vehicles, but the maintenance cost is much lower than its counterpart.

Furthermore, while EV battery packs are more expensive than conventional vehicles, they last a long time and come with 8-10 year warranties.

To help reduce the initial purchase price of an EV, federal and sometimes state-specific incentives are available. 

Charging Infrastructure

The charging infrastructure of the country is not yet developed well enough to support EVs. Fueling electric vehicles can also be an issue. A Level 1 or Level 2 charger can take up to eighty hours to fully charge the battery pack; even fast charging stations take 30 minutes to charge the EV to around 80% battery capacity. Drivers need to plan ahead while using EVs for long drive. 

Travelling Distance

EVs typically have a shorter range than gasoline-powered vehicles. Most models range between 60 and 120 miles when fully charged, with some luxury models reaching up to 300 miles.

Conclusion

Electric vehicles offer several advantages over conventional vehicles by reducing emissions, lowering fuel costs, and improving performance. However, electric vehicles have drawbacks, such as higher initial costs, limited range, and long charging times. Do you want to learn about EV design and development? Check out Skill-Lync’s courses. We offer PG Program in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Design and Analysis and Introduction to Battery Technology for Electric Vehicle. 

Book a free demo session to know more about our courses!