Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular – if you’ve ever wanted to own one or are keen on learning more about them, then read on!
Electric vehicles have no exhaust
o EVs don’t produce any engine emissions – so no exhaust. Besides being environmentally friendly, another nifty benefit is how quiet they are as a result!
Electric Vehicles are fast
o Did someone say instant acceleration? Most electric vehicles do have their limits, however, Tesla has a top speed of 200km/h.
You can recharge your EV from a regular home outlet
o The convenience of EVs is that you can easily charge your car at home during off-peak times.
- Electric vehicles require less maintenance
o Unlike their petrol and diesel engine counterparts, the electric vehicle has far fewer pieces to maintain. Besides wiper blades, tires and other wear and tear items, EVs are less maintenance heavy than combustion engines.
Range anxiety is a thing of the past
o Yes, range anxiety is a real concern with some models only reaching 200km. However, Tesla boasts ranges exceeding 400km on a single charge – making range anxiety a fear of the past.
The electric vehicle isn’t a new concept
o The first EV was actually created in 1832, and in 1895, William Morrison developed the first electric vehicle.
Technology has definitely transformed our lives at a rapid rate – and that includes electric vehicles. Australia has made strides in electric vehicle (EV) technology, through the electric highway – a superior charging network that allows EV commuters the ability to circumnavigate Australia.
EV’s are becoming the way of the future – and the numbers are showing the growing popularity. With over 2 million electric vehicles on the road around the world. Car manufacturers are also on board – many offering hybrid options, with a select few offering fulling electric options. Tesla is of course leading the race, with superior technology and a futuristic mindset.
Many in Australia are keen to make the switch – however, price, range and infrastructure tend to be deterrents. Here are a few points which may change your mind
Price
EV’s are on a declining cost curve, electric vehicles batteries are getting cheaper and sales are increasing. Electric Vehicles are also cheaper to run that their petrol and diesel counterparts.
Range
With batteries becoming superior, their range and capacity is also increasing. This means that the range of EV’s will no longer be a concern in coming years.
Infrastructure
Charging infrastructure is a concern of many EV enthusiasts. “Range anxiety” is a concern of many interested buyers – with some EV models not able to travel the distance. However this is changing – with improvements in Australia making strides. One such improvement is the Electric highway – this network of charging stations has revolutionised the EV outlook for Australia.
Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular, and with charging infrastructure and batteries continue to improve, EVs are set to become mainstream very soon.
There are many reasons why electric vehicles (EVs) are better than their petrol and diesel counterparts.
Electric vehicles cost less to run than petrol or diesel cars
o While EVs are currently more expensive to purchase, they are cheaper to run According to the electric vehicle council, an average EV costs around $4.50 in electricity charges to travel 100km. This is compared to $16.65 for the average petrol car in Australia.
EVs are easier to maintain
o Unlike combustion engines, Electric cars require significantly less maintenance.
Electric vehicles are better for the air we breathe
o EVs have zero exhaust emissions, a great plus for our environment.
EVs are convenient to “fill-up”
o Electric vehicles are easy and convenient to refuel at work or at home. Along with the improved charging infrastructure in Australia in the form of the electric highway, recharging has become more convenient than ever.
Electric vehicles are quiet – inside and out
o Evs have a distinct lack of noise while driving. It can even be slightly offset for the first time when you press the accelerator and there is no sound.
Ever wanted a way to circumnavigate Australia or wondered how practically own an electric vehicle without having range anxiety out of the city?
The answer – the “Electric Highway” – a three-year project that set out to have a charger near every populated part of Australia. A voluntary initiative of the Tesla Owners Club of Australia and the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, the route now spaces 17,000km. The Electric Highway will change the way you view EVs.
Thanks to improved charging infrastructure, it is now possible to circumnavigate Australia in an electric vehicle. Remote stretches crossing the Nullarbor Plain in SA/WA, as well as the Pilbara, Kimberly and Top End, are covered with 32 amp, three phase sockets, while the eastern seaboard is serviced by the Queensland Electric Superhighway and the Tesla Supercharger network in south-eastern Australia. South-west of WA has been serviced by the RAC Electric Highway since 2015.
With all of the new charging stations over the past two years, places to charge your electric vehicle are now in abundance thanks to the Australian Electric Vehicle Association and the Tesla Owners Club of Australia’s efforts
While Electric Vehicles (EV) are increasing in popularity, there are still some myths that deter people from purchasing these cars. EVs are on the edge of a boom – mass adoption, and for good reason! Have you stopped yourself from becoming an EV owner due to the following myths
Electric vehicles have a low driving range
o The common misperception about electric vehicles are that they won’t be able to keep up with your daily driving needs. The average driving distance from a single charge of EVs currently available in Australia is more than 5 hours of continuous driving per day. It’s estimated that the average Australian household owns more than two cars and completes about one hour of continuous driving per day (or 38km/day). Assuming you are charging your EV overnight, this would mean that your EV driving range would be more than enough. With some studies indicating that certain models, such as the Tesla S would only need to be charged once every 12 days. While everybody is different in the range per day they drive, it’s important to properly asses each electric vehicle range and charging requirements before purchasing
Charging your EV takes too long
o Electric vehicle technology, including EV batteries, are continuously being improved. Charging times are falling rapidly, with charging times for empty batteries taking 6 to 10 hours to be fully charged. Overnight charging is ideal for most EV owners. There are also improvements in EV infrastructure, which makes charging convenient and quick – the Australian Electric Highway is one example of the updates in infrastructure.
Electric vehicles are too expensive to buy and maintain
o While some EVs are more expensive to purchase now, the costs of EVs are plummeting. The fuel versus energy cost savings vary, but are roughly 1/3rd to 1/10th of the cost. There are also some potential variables such as the battery life, but the technology is improving and there is limited experience currently to go on.
Electric cars or electric vehicles (EVs) have divided the market – some are avid EV owners while others are naysayers, yet there are some who are undecided and are currently assessing the landscape before making judgement. Where do you stand in regards to electric vehicles? Here are some of the pros and cons of EVs.
Pros
Cheaper to run than their petrol counterparts.
While EVs are currently more expensive to purchase, they are cheaper to run According to the electric vehicle council, an average EV costs around $4.50 in electricity charges to travel 100km. This is compared to $16.65 for the average petrol car in Australia.
Easy to charge
Electric vehicles can be charged right at your home. For most users, a charge overnight is enough to keep your car fully charged for the average day to work and back.
Easy to maintain
Unlike combustion engines, Electric cars require significantly less maintenance.
Safety
Electric cars are being manufactured with all of the safety features that are standard today – many EVs actually exceed safety standards.
Cons
EVs are more expensive to purchase
Electric vehicles are currently more expensive to purchase than their petrol or diesel alternatives, this is mostly due to the cost of the batteries. However, this is changing and the prices of batteries are rapidly falling.
Limited driving range and charging infrastructure
With EV ranges ranging from 80 – 200 kilometres until a full recharge is needed, it can be viewed as not sufficient for longer journey’s. Public charging infrastructure is taking shape, and Australia has gotten on board with the Australia Electric Highway. With a bit of careful planning and consideration, however, you are able to take away your “range anxiety”.
Too Quiet
EVs are quiet – road users, such as cyclists or pedestrians, may not even realise you are driving past.
Renault ZOE and Kangoo ZE
While only currently being offered to Australia government and business buyers, the Renault ZOE and Kangoo ZE are definitely a talking point. With the first few models being delivered; these compact electric vehicles offer something a bit different to the other prestige EVs currently sold in Australia. The ZOE offers a more affordable, user-friendly experience with a longer range of around 300km.
Tesla Model X, Model S and Model 3
From the luxury SUV, Model X through to the prestige sedan Model S and finally the more budget-friendly Model 3, Tesla caters to a wide EV market. With longer ranges than competitors and advanced features including auto-pilot, Tesla offers buyers and owners a futuristic and premium experience that is largely unmatched by competitors.
BMW i3s
A small and quirky electric vehicle, the BMW I3 has undergone a facelift. Thanks to the fully-electric drive train BMW eDrive, this runabout goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. With a range of 200km, the facelifted BMW i3 has a bigger 94Ah battery than before that supports faster charging.
Nissan LEAF
Nissan launched the “reinvented” next generation LEAF in japan last year, boasting a 400km range, boosted acceleration as well as a range of new technologies. However, prospective buyers in Australia may have to wait until March of next year to be able to get their hands of this all-electric vehicle.
It can be slightly disconcerting if you suddenly hear a rattle coming from your car, especially while driving on the open road! But take a deep breath – it could be something small and insignificant. It’s always a good idea to get a strange rattle investigated, in case it’s something bigger. Regular services should keep you at bay for sudden or unexpected car trouble.
Common rattles or noises and what they could mean
Whirring noise
- Usually a vibrating or buzzing noise that may change with engine speed. This type of noise is most likely caused by belt driven accessories or the belts themselves. Other causes could be associated with the bearings in the alternator, drive belt idler and tensioner or the water pump.
Hissing or gurgling
- Hissing or gurgling noises are common with cooling system problems. Air escaping from a hose or gurgling noises that sound like water boiling in a kettle can be caused by faulty temperature gauges, coolant leaks or other liquid leaks. Its best to pull over as soon as possible and have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic.
Backfires
- These noises sound like gunshots and can be quite loud. Most likely caused by an issue with your fuel system or with your engine timing.
Spluttering/Shuddering
- Any vibrating, jerking or sudden loss of power under acceleration could indicate that the vehicle is misfiring. Check the ignition and fuel system for issues to identify what is causing the vibration or noise.
It’s always a good idea to get a mechanic to properly check out any sudden noises – depending on what type of noise it is, your mechanic will be able to narrow down the cause and carry out a diagnostic check.