Are EV owners worried about range for Christmas travel?

Yes, a third of electric car owners express major concerns about their EV's range for holiday journeys.

What are drivers doing about EV range concerns this Christmas?

Many are opting to use petrol or diesel cars for longer trips to ensure they reach their destinations reliably.

Has the EV charging network improved for Christmas travel?

Yes, the number of EV chargers has significantly increased, more than doubling since December 2022.

Home / Technology / EV Owners Fear Christmas Range Woes

EV Owners Fear Christmas Range Woes

20 Dec

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Summary

A third of electric car owners worry about range for Christmas trips.
Many owners will use petrol cars for longer holiday journeys.
Charging network has grown significantly since 2022.

As holiday travel intensifies, a significant portion of electric vehicle (EV) owners report apprehension regarding their car's range. A recent survey indicates that one-third of EV owners are concerned about their ability to complete Christmas journeys without encountering range limitations. This anxiety leads many to consider or utilize petrol-powered vehicles for longer distances to ensure reliable arrival.

The public charging infrastructure has seen considerable expansion in recent years. Since December 2022, the number of EV chargers has more than doubled, reaching over 86,000. This growth, with 17,356 rapid and ultra-rapid chargers added in the last year alone, aims to mitigate concerns about queues and availability during peak travel times.

Experts suggest that while range anxiety persists, improvements in the charging network and more efficient charging habits can alleviate these worries. Optimizing charging to around 80% at rapid chargers, rather than full, can save time and cost, making public charging more practical for long trips. This approach treats charging as a quick top-up, enhancing the overall EV travel experience.