Are electric cars practical?

Elisa (No)

Electric cars (EVs) may sound like the way of the future, but there are many misconceptions about them. They are unrealistic as our energy systems are wasteful, as over 60% of the energy used for electricity generation is “lost in the conversion process.' They are also not the most cost-efficient option on the market nor are they practical or as ‘green’ as advertised. 

EVs not being as clean or practical has become more well-known in recent years. They are good in theory, but when it comes to reliable and adequate charging sources, they become impractical. The batteries themselves are heavy, making the weight of these cars increase the risk of structural failures, such as collapsing parking garages. EV batteries can also catch on fire—more common than one would hope. The irony of EVs is that charging them requires electricity, which is derived from coal or fossil fuel sources. They’re only as clean as this power supply. Moreover, EV lithium batteries rely on unethical child labor practices to mine the minerals for these batteries. Lithium mining also scars the landscape, with environmentalists objecting to it altogether. Without employing this illegal workforce and devastating lands, not as many EVs would be available to the general public. 

Despite being generally the more expensive car on the market, EV batteries also don't last long distances. Likewise, fewer charging stations nationwide and charging takes around 30 minutes. EVs also don't drive well in the cold or other types of extreme weather, which makes purchasing and owning an EV not a viable option for many. Further, they’re not a solution to climate change, as many believe. Our focus should be on improving normal gas-powered cars instead of replacing every car with an impractical EV that still relies on fossil fuels and destroys land to create batteries that do not last. 

Rob (Yes)

Electric cars (EVs) elicit different reactions from different people. While some people absolutely love them and what they represent, others, 'petrolheads' especially, aren’t too welcoming. Regardless of your opinion, it’s undeniable that they are quite practical. For starters, they are more energy-efficient than gas-powered cars. EVs convert 85% of the energy from the batteries to the wheels, compared to 40% for internal combustion engines. They also typically have regenerative braking systems, which capture and store energy typically lost as heat in traditional braking systems.

Secondly, ongoing developments in battery technology have led to significant improvements in the energy density, range, and charging times of EVs. American EVs now boast an impressive average range of 300 miles. Battery prices have also been falling, making the cars more affordable for most people. Likewise, EVs also have fewer moving parts, resulting in cheaper maintenance compared to gas vehicles.

EV charging infrastructure is also growing fast, making it more convenient for electric car owners to recharge their vehicles. EV owners can also conveniently recharge their cars from home using a regular power outlet, which helps save a lot of time otherwise spent running to the gas station and also reduces exposure to germs notoriously found in these places. In certain states, they can even use carpool lanes when driving alone.

Reports also suggest that EVs are relatively cheaper to own in the long run than gas-powered cars. As electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, fueling costs for EVs are lower overall. In some places, EV owners may also be eligible for tax incentives simply for switching from gas to green energy. All of this and more makes EVs the more sensible option for drivers.