Advertorial by ChargeNet
This content was prepared by ChargeNet and is being published by NZME as an advertorial.
Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity in New Zealand, with nearly 85,000 EVs now registered on our roads. Like any emerging technology, a number of outdated misconceptions about EV ownership are still circulating, leaving some Kiwis uncertain about making the switch. In honour of World EV Day, we’d like to clear the air and get the facts straight to give you the knowledge you need to decide whether an EV is right for you.
Myth 1: EV range is too limited
The days of the only electric options in New Zealand being small hatchbacks with city-commuter ranges are over. Today, we have the choice of more than 40 EV models with a range of 500km or more, and dozens with a range of at least 300km. Plus, public EV charging stations like ChargeNet’s fast chargers are strategically located throughout the country, ensuring you’ll rarely need to travel anywhere on a single charge.
Myth 2: Charging takes too long
Early EV adopters faced the challenges of a scarce public charging network and small batteries with slow charging rates and limited capacity. Today, things have changed – Aotearoa boasts
thousands of public electric vehicle charging stations across the country, with ChargeNet’s 300kW hyper-rapid chargers boosting the range of modern EVs by up to 100km in less than 5 minutes. Furthermore, 82% of EV charging happens at home, where you can add up to 40km of range for every hour plugged in.
Myth 3: EV batteries are short-lived and expensive
It’s true that replacing an EV battery is higher than a traditional car, but with a lifespan of up to 20 years and the capacity to drive half a million kilometres over their lifespan, they’re impressively long-lasting. As technology advances, the cost of replacement batteries is decreasing, and their longevity is increasing.
Myth 4: EVs are worse for the environment
It takes more energy to produce an EV battery than one for an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle, leading to a common belief that EVs are worse for the environment. In reality, EVs produce exponentially fewer emissions over their lifespan, with virtually zero emissions during operation – which is where ICE vehicles produce the most. Additionally, 80% of Aotearoa’s energy comes from renewable sources, making EVs the sustainable choice here.
Myth 5: EVs are too expensive and there’s limited choice
New Zealand has a vast range of EVs, with over 200 models currently available or on pre-order. If you’re looking for a cost-saving starter EV, entry-level EV pricing has dropped by 24% over the last two years. If you’re looking to turn heads, dozens of sleek, high-end options from brands like Audi, Porsche and Volkswagen are sure to boost your street cred.
Don’t let these misconceptions deter you from joining the EV revolution in New Zealand. With a wide selection of models, convenient charging infrastructure and environmental benefits, EV ownership is more accessible and practical than ever before. Happy driving!