Few topics generate more heated arguments than electric vehicles. Enthusiasts act like they’re the solution to everything. Critics act like they’re a conspiracy to ruin driving. The truth, as usual, is somewhere in the middle. Let’s work through the most common claims and see what holds up.

”EVs Don’t Have Enough Range”

Mostly myth at this point. Five years ago, this was a reasonable concern. Today, most new EVs offer 300-500 km of real-world range, which covers the vast majority of daily driving with room to spare. The average Australian drives about 36 km per day. The average American drives about 60 km. Even the most affordable EVs handle that without breaking a sweat.

The range concern is really about long road trips, and that’s where it gets more nuanced. Can you drive from Sydney to Melbourne in an EV? Absolutely. But it’ll take longer than in a petrol car because you’ll need to stop and charge, and those charging stops take longer than filling up with fuel. Twenty to forty minutes at a fast charger versus five minutes at a petrol station.

For some people, that’s a dealbreaker. For others, it’s a welcome excuse to stretch their legs and grab a coffee. Your mileage (literally) may vary.

”EVs Are Too Expensive”

Partially true, but rapidly changing. The sticker price of most EVs is still higher than comparable petrol cars. A base-model Tesla Model 3 costs more than a base-model Toyota Camry. That’s a fact.

But sticker price isn’t the whole story. EVs are significantly cheaper to run. Electricity costs less than petrol per kilometre — often 60-70% less, depending on your electricity rates. Maintenance costs are lower because EVs have fewer moving parts: no oil changes, no transmission servicing, fewer brake replacements (thanks to regenerative braking).

Over a five-to-seven year ownership period, the total cost of ownership for many EVs is now competitive with or lower than equivalent petrol cars. The upfront cost is higher, but the running costs are consistently lower.

Government incentives also factor in. Many countries and states offer tax credits, rebates, or registration discounts for EV purchases. These can significantly close the price gap, though they vary by location and change frequently.

”The Charging Infrastructure Isn’t Ready”

Partially true, and it depends where you live. Urban areas in most developed countries now have reasonable charging networks. Major highway routes are increasingly covered. But rural and regional areas? Still patchy in many places.

Home charging changes the equation significantly. If you can charge overnight, you’ll wake up every morning with a “full tank.” For apartment dwellers without home charging, the picture is less rosy — you’re dependent on public chargers, which adds inconvenience. The infrastructure is improving rapidly but unevenly. Check the charging situation in your area before committing.

”EVs Aren’t Actually Better for the Environment”

Myth, with caveats. The argument goes: “electricity comes from coal, so EVs just move the emissions elsewhere.” The math doesn’t support this. Electric motors convert 85-90% of energy into motion versus 20-30% for petrol engines. That efficiency advantage more than compensates, even on coal-heavy grids. On cleaner grids, the advantage is larger — and gets better as renewables grow.

Battery manufacturing does have a carbon footprint. Mining lithium and cobalt isn’t clean. But studies show that within two to three years of driving, lower operational emissions outweigh the manufacturing impact.

”EV Batteries End Up in Landfill”

Largely myth. EV batteries contain valuable materials that manufacturers want to recover. Many get a second life in stationary energy storage before recycling. Recycling infrastructure is growing rapidly, and regulations requiring battery recycling are being implemented globally.

”EVs Are Boring to Drive”

Definitely a myth. Electric motors produce maximum torque from zero RPM. Even modest EVs are quick off the line. The instant response and low centre of gravity make them surprisingly fun to drive. They’re not the same as a petrol car, and some enthusiasts prefer the character of an internal combustion engine. Fair enough. But boring? No.

The Bottom Line

EVs aren’t perfect. They have real limitations around charging infrastructure, upfront cost, and suitability for certain use cases. But many of the most common criticisms are either outdated, exaggerated, or simply wrong.

If you drive mainly in urban and suburban areas, can charge at home, and keep a car for five or more years, an EV probably makes financial and practical sense right now. If you live rurally, drive long distances regularly, or can’t charge at home, the equation is less clear.

Do your own research based on your specific situation. The general debates are less useful than the specific question: does an EV work for my life?