Electric vehicles (EVs) have been steadily gaining traction in India's automotive landscape. However, myths and misconceptions about electric vehicles persist, hindering their widespread adoption. From concerns about charging infrastructure and range anxiety to cost implications and environmental impact, there's a lot of misinformation out there. We're here to separate fact from fiction and empower readers with useful insights. Whether you're a skeptic, a curious onlooker, or an enthusiastic advocate of electric mobility, this article will equip you with understanding the true potential of electric cars in India.

Electric vehicles myths busted

Myth 1: Charging an electric vehicle is time-consuming and inconvenient

Fact: Charging an electric vehicle can be as simple as plugging it into a power source. Advancements in fast-charging technology have significantly reduced charging times, and the increasing number of public charging stations and home chargers make charging convenient. A quintessential EV is equipped with fast-charging capabilities, allowing it to charge up to 80% within just one hour.

Myth 2: Electric vehicles have a limited range and are not suitable for long-distance travel

Fact: Technological advancements have significantly improved the capabilities of electric vehicles. Today, several EVs available in India offer ranges of over 300 kilometers on a single charge, with an expanding charging infrastructure for convenient long-distance travel.

Myth 3: Electric vehicles are not safe to drive in heavy rains

Fact: Electric vehicles incorporate an Ingress Protection (IP) system to ensure safety in waterlogged regions. With an IP67 rating, EV batteries can endure being submerged in water up to one meter deep for a maximum duration of 30 minutes without any water seepage. This ensures vehicle safety even in waterlogged conditions.

Myth 4: Electric vehicles are too expensive for the average Indian consumer

Fact: With advancements in technology, the cost of electric vehicles is steadily decreasing. Also, incentives like government subsidies and tax benefits make electric vehicles more affordable. Additionally, lower operating and maintenance costs offset the initial higher purchase price over time.

Myth 5: There are insufficient EV charging stations in India

Fact: There are already more than 900 electric vehicle public charging stations, couple with several thousand private charging stations spread across India; and this network is steadily increasing. The government, along with various stakeholders, is actively working on setting up EV charging stations every few kilometers along highways and major roads.

Myth 6: The electricity used to charge EVs is not clean if it comes from fossil fuel-based power plants

Fact: Electric vehicles have a remarkable advantage in energy conversion efficiency compared to conventional petrol vehicles. India is committed to increasing the share of non-fossil fuel-based energy resources, significantly reducing the carbon impact of EV charging. Installing solar panels for home charging can further reduce the carbon footprint of electric vehicles. Plus,  lot of work is under progress for recycling and reuse of critical minerals that make up an EV battery, aiming to reduce the need for mining for making new batteries. So we can safely say that the electricity used to charge EVs is significantly cleaner than fossil fuels.

Myth 7: Lithium batteries and EVs are dangerous in general

Fact: While lithium batteries and EVs come with safety considerations, advancements in battery technology and safety features have significantly reduced the likelihood of accidents or incidents. Following the recommended guidelines for handling and charging lithium batteries ensures the safety of electric vehicles.