With the rapid advancement of technology and increasing environmental concerns, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. The global shift towards EVs is driven by numerous factors that highlight their potential to revolutionize the automobile industry. In this article, we will explore ten compelling reasons why EVs are undeniably the future of transportation.
In recent years, EVs have gained significant traction as they offer a cleaner, greener, and more efficient mode of transportation. As the demand for sustainable mobility grows, it becomes imperative to understand the various reasons why EVs are poised to reshape the automotive landscape.
Table of Contents
Types of EVs
There are four types of electric vehicles:
- Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
- Hybrid Electric Vehicle
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
- Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): A BEV is referred to as an “all-electric” or “full-electric” car. BEVs are electric-only vehicles that receive power for their electric motors from internal battery packs. BEVs lack all ICE components.
BEVs often feature substantially greater capacity batteries and kilowatt-hour (kWh) outputs than equivalent hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric cars due to their exclusive reliance on electricity. BEVs often cost more than other types of EVs because of the additional battery technology.
To operate, BEVs need to be charged. This can be accomplished using a rapid charging station, a home charger, or energy recovered during regenerative braking.
Examples:
MG ZS, TATA Nexon, TATA Tigor, Mahindra E20 plus, Hyundai Kona, and Mahindra Verito.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
In order to minimise fuel consumption, a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) combines an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery pack.
HEVs do this by utilising an electric motor to propel the vehicle when an ICE would be particularly wasteful, such as while accelerating from a standstill. While it is more efficient to do so, such as when travelling at highway speeds, hybrids may also favour the ICE engine.
Due to the fact that owners may only refuel hybrid cars with conventional fuels, they operate most similarly to conventional ICE vehicles (usually petrol).
HEV technology automatically charges the battery through what’s known as ‘regenerative braking’ and activates the electric motor system when conditions are suitable, meaning drivers do not have to monitor charge or plug the cars into power outlets.
Example:
Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volvo XC90, Honda City Hybrid, Toyota Camry and Toyota Vellfire
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
Similar to a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines an internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery pack. However, there are several key distinctions.
Due to the fact that the electric system performs the majority of the work when driving, PHEVs often feature bigger battery packs and more potent electric motors than hybrids. This implies that PHEVs may operate exclusively on electricity, turning off the ICE completely.
As the automobile will automatically recharge the battery and transition between ICE and electric power dependent on conditions, driving a plug-in hybrid is comparable to driving a hybrid. Drivers can choose to refuel PHEVs with both petrol and electricity, though.
A PHEV can run on just petrol if all battery charge is used up, and battery charge alone if all fuel is used up.
Examples:
Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid, BMW 330e, Porsche Panamera S E-hybrid, Chevy Volt, Chrysler Pacifica, Ford C-Max Energi, Mercedes C350e, Mercedes S550e, Mercedes GLE550e, Mini Cooper SE Countryman, Ford Fusion Energi, Audi A3 E-Tron, BMW i8, BMW X5 xdrive40e, Fiat 500e, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Volvo XC90 T8.
Why EVs are the future of the automobile?
Electric vehicle manufacturing is becoming increasingly popular, and its market share is expected to rise sharply. By 2022, India’s GDP is predicted to increase by 25%.
The best aspect is that, in addition to decreasing pollution, EVs can reduce oil imports by $60 billion by 2030. Currently, 82 percent of India’s oil needs are met by imports. Therefore, it is obvious how beneficial a reduction in import costs will be for the Indian economy.
There are no emissions
Electric Vehicles are being developed primarily because they do not emit pollution when driving. A battery-powered electric motor propels an electric vehicle. There is no burning of fuel. An exhaust system is absent from an electric car. It’s the best road transportation solution at a time when global CO2 emissions and air pollution must be drastically cut.
Access to city centers is unrestricted
Aside from the fact that more cities are implementing LEZs, these zones are growing in size and strict with time. You may travel anywhere and whenever you choose in low-emission zones with an electric automobile, both today and in the future.
Electricity is less expensive than gasoline
Electricity is less expensive than gasoline and fuel. In low-emission zones now and in the future, you can drive an electric car anywhere and whenever you want. The most cost-effective solution is to charge at home.
Comfortable and quiet
An electric motor makes a lot less noise than a combustion engine. Because of this, it’s easy to tell whether an electric car is silent. Additionally, unlike a combustion engine, an electric motor produces no vibrations or resonance. The serene drivetrain contributes to the tranquillity.
There’s no need to switch gears
An electric automobile does not have a traditional gearbox, another key distinction from a car with a combustion engine. Since an automatic gearbox eliminates the need to change gears, an electric vehicle always operates similarly to a vehicle with one. Additionally, you won’t have to spend extra. Thanks to the silence of an electric motor, driving in city traffic or heavy traffic has never been more enjoyable.
Torque on the fly
The incredibly high torque of an electric motor is a distinct feature. Superior to a standard internal combustion engine in terms of power. Furthermore, an electric motor responds rapidly to throttle motions and generates peak torque right from a standstill. Internal combustion engines have an unavoidable response time and can only generate maximum torque in a specific speed range. All of this assures enticing performance thanks to the smooth and powerful acceleration and a great deal of driving pleasure.
Extremely effective
Currently, the most efficient combustion engines have an efficiency of around 40%. That means they only put 40% of the energy in the fuel into motion. Heat and friction account for the remaining 60%.
An electric motor has a 90 percent efficiency, which means it uses the battery’s energy far more efficiently. Furthermore, an electric car can swiftly recover kinetic energy because can transform an electric motor into a generator in the blink of an eye.
Requires less maintenance
Compared to combustion engine technology, the electric powertrain is far more straightforward. Because only a few sections need to be lubricated, it has fewer (spinning) parts and fluids. So, an electric vehicle requires less maintenance.
Generate your power
Having your oil refinery in your garden to make your auto fuel is impossible. It’s hardly unexpected, though, that you can create your electricity. For instance, the roof of your house or business building may include solar panels that produce electricity. Lower your kilometre cost by charging your battery with this renewable energy.
Tax Benefit
You may be able to save money on taxes by purchasing or leasing an EV. If an electric vehicle is registered in the name of your business, you can take advantage of the first-year depreciation allowance of 40% to reduce your income tax. The government is also in favour of your decision to purchase an electric vehicle and has already put up an EV policy that entitles you to up to Rs 1.5 lakh in additional advantages.
Conclusion
Electric vehicles are undeniably the future of the automobile industry. From their environmental benefits and economic advantages to technological advancements and positive impacts on public health, EVs offer a multitude of reasons why they are poised to reshape the way we travel. With government support, increasing availability of EV models, and a drive towards renewable energy integration, the future outlook for EVs is promising. As we transition to a more sustainable transportation system, embracing EVs is not only a smart choice but also a necessary step towards a cleaner and greener future.
FAQs
Are electric vehicles more expensive than traditional cars?
While the upfront cost of electric vehicles may be higher, they offer lower operating costs and potential savings on fuel and maintenance over time, making them cost-competitive with traditional cars.
Can electric vehicles travel long distances?
Modern electric vehicles have significantly improved driving ranges, and the development of rapid charging infrastructure ensures convenient recharging for long-distance travel.
Are there enough charging stations for electric vehicles?
Charging infrastructure is rapidly expanding, with governments and private companies investing in the development of charging stations. The network of charging stations is continuously growing to support the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?
The charging time for electric vehicles varies depending on the charging method and the vehicle’s battery capacity. Fast-charging stations can provide a significant charge in a short time, while standard charging may take several hours.
Are electric vehicles safe?
Electric vehicles undergo rigorous safety testing and often come equipped with advanced safety features. Their design, including the placement of heavy batteries, contributes to a lower risk of accidents and fire incidents compared to traditional cars.
