According to a new report by the Consumer Electronics Association, about half of the people who said they're interested in buying an EV say they're still concerned about range. That's a not insignificant chunk of the electric car buying population, and a pretty solid reminded that EVs still face an uphill battle despite improving technology.
It's also a possible opportunity for Chevrolet as the Volt's setup effectively wipes out range anxiety thanks to its backup generator. Should be interesting to see if what becomes more important in the minds of consumers -- being green or being relaxed.
Green Car Advisor: Interest In Evs Strong, But Range Anxiety Still an Issue
gregnv says:
12:03 PM, 08/24/10
You bet EV range is an issue. Nissan claims 100 miles on a charge in ideal conditions. What if you live in Las Vegas or Pheonix, what is the range when using the air conditioning on a day that is 115 degrees (not an uncommon temp in the summer, and temps can get higher)? Significantly lower no doubt. And should you run out of juice and get stranded, your going to be stuck in the heat with no relief until you are towed out.
Same issue in Minnesota or Wisconsin in the winter when it is -10 degrees (and temps can get a lot lower). Clearly not ideal circumstances. When the battery is draining fast from using the heater and plowing through snow, the chances of being stuck increase. Get stuck in this circumstance and you could freeze before being towed out.
So when conditions are not ideal, your chances of being stranded are higher. Just when you need a car the most, the EV is at its worst. So, range is a real issue. Maybe the Volt, with an on-board generator is the answer. However, unless you live in costal California, the pure EV has significant drawbacks that could make an inclement drive a minor nightmare.
brn says:
05:16 PM, 08/24/10
So what the study says is consumers have a clue? That's good to hear.
Lower range and insane recharge times (let's not even get started on fast chargers). Yup, good reason for range anxiety.
I like EVs, but I don't like it when people pretend it's problems aren't problems.
ne1butu2 says:
08:54 PM, 08/24/10
WHAT??!?? You mean that people are concerned about a car that has a safe range limited to 80 miles? Why would anyone not love the idea of being stranded?