Range anxiety is a common concern among potential and current electric vehicle (EV) owners. The fear that an electric vehicle will run out of charge before reaching its destination, leaving the driver stranded is understandably nerve racking. But carful planning and available resources can greatly enhance the electric vehicle ownership experience and reduce this anxiety.
Range Anxiety Statistics
- Surveys indicate that range anxiety is a significant barrier to electric vehicle adoption. A 2023 study by the Consumer Reports organization highlighted that range anxiety was a significant concern for around 48% of respondents considering electric vehicles.
- Charging infrastructure are helping to reduce these concerns.
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the number of public charging stations in the U.S. grew by approximately 25% from 2022 to 2023.
- Estimates suggest that around 20,000 to 30,000 new charging outlets could be added by 2025.
- The goal is to reach or exceed the 500,000 charger mark by 2030, so the number of charging outlets will continue to grow significantly in the next five years.
- Many modern electric vehicles now offer ranges of 200-300 miles or more on a single charge.
- The improved range of modern electric vehicles makes them increasingly practical for the average commuter. For instance, a vehicle with a 250-mile range comfortably covers a round-trip commute of 30 miles, with plenty of buffer for additional travel.
The Solution to Range Anxiety
Charging Familiarity: Becoming familiar with the locations. Apps and online maps can help you locate chargers along your routes.
Creating a Charging Plan: Plan your trips with charging stops in mind. Identify convenient charging locations at regular intervals along your route. For longer trips, ensure you have a plan for fast charging stops to minimize downtime.
What to Do If Your Battery Runs Completely Out of Charge
- Emergency Protocols: Most electric vehicles come with roadside assistance programs that can help if you run out of charge. Services may include towing to the nearest charging station or mobile charging units that can provide a temporary charge.
- Preventative Measures: To avoid running out of charge, monitor your vehicle’s range estimate and plan your charging stops accordingly. Many electric vehicles also have range prediction tools that account for driving habits.
