Tackling common myths and misunderstandings about modern electric vehicles (EVs).

EVs are causing a radical shift in personal transportation and, as with any major change, have their fair share of both advocates and detractors. But how can we know the truth about EVs? From silent driving to range limitations and every feature in between, we’re here to take on common myths and separate EV facts from EV fiction.

With more electric vehicles in Oshawa than ever before, ownership numbers on the rise across Canada, and automotive manufacturers producing a larger variety of electric or hybrid models, it’s clear that the future of driving is electric.

EV FACT: EVs offer a more environmentally friendly ride

One of the most common myths surrounding EVs is that they don’t lower total carbon emissions because power still needs to be generated to drive the vehicle. Driving electric won’t allow you to reach net-zero (yet!), but it will help significantly lower your carbon footprint.

In Ontario, switching to an EV can lower your greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 67-95%. Ontario has one of the cleanest energy mixes in the world, with more than 90% of our electricity produced by zero-carbon sources. By switching from a traditional vehicle to electric, you can put money back in your pocket and help lower your carbon footprint.

EV FICTION: EV performance can’t compare

Don’t think EVs can go toe-to-toe with high performance sports cars? Think again!

Traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) still offer higher top speeds than electric, but when it comes to acceleration, EVs are up to the test. Due to the efficiency of electric motors, EVs can generate 100% of available torque almost instantly. This allows for rapid acceleration with high-end models able to go 0-60mph in just over 2 seconds, some of the fastest times ever recorded!

EV FACT: EVs offer a silent ride

It’s true… for now! EVs produce nearly no engine noise at all and can offer a nearly silent ride. If you are someone who does their best thinking on long drives, a silent EV might be right for you.

However, the lack of engine noise isn’t completely without issue. Groups have began lobbying EV manufacturers to add noise simulators over concerns that silence could put hearing-impaired pedestrians at risk.

EV FICTION: Low range will leave you stranded

Concerned an EV won’t get you to and from work? Or that you’ll stall out before reaching the cottage?

Range anxiety is a common concern for potential EV owners. But in 2022, EVs are available in a wide variety of range capabilities to fit all lifestyles. From compact battery EVs with 200km driving range, to long range models with 600km+ ranges, and even plug-in hybrid EVs with total range capabilities over 1,000km, you can easily find a model to satisfy any range expectations.

EV FACT: EVs are low maintenance

Driving an EV can significantly lower fuel costs, but did you know that EV maintenance costs are also almost non-existent?

Unlike traditional ICEs with thousands of moving parts, modern EV engines have about 20 moving parts. With much greater efficiency, simpler design, and substantially fewer moving parts, EVs can offer massive maintenance savings over traditional vehicles.

EV FICTION: You’ll spend thousands replacing your battery

While battery replacement costs for EVs remain expensive, very few owners will ever need to worry about it.

EV sales generally come with 8-year, 160,000km warranties that include coverage for battery replacement. With the average Canadian replacing their vehicle approximately every 12 years, warranty should cover your EV for about 60% of your vehicles’ life. Compare this to about 25% for traditional ICE warranties (average 3 years, 60,000km).

EV FICTION: Public charging is more expensive than refueling

With gas prices continuing to rise, savings offered by public charging continue to look even better!

In Ontario, it is very possible to find free public charging, but even paid charging only costs between $1.50 and $2.50 per hour of charging. At a Level 2 charging station, this allows an additional 30km of range and a cost per km of between $0.05 and $0.09.

Meanwhile, the average ICE vehicle in Canada offers fuel economy of about 9.3L/100km. With current gas prices, drivers pay a per km cost of approximately $0.19. This is more than double the cost of public charging.

Looking to learn more?

Now that you know some common EV facts and fictions surrounding driving and ownership, would you consider making the switch?

In partnership with the Regional Municipality of Durham and Plug ‘N Drive, Oshawa Power is bringing the Mobile Electric Vehicle Education Trailer (MEET) to our downtown office. We’re offering Durham residents the chance to learn even more EV facts and experience EV driving firsthand. Click here to learn more about the program and reserve your test drive.