subject: The Criticism Of Electric Cars [print this page] Despite the greater focus on electric cars by both automakers and governments, these vehicles of tomorrow still are lurching towards tomorrow. There are still many criticisms regarding this car design and despite the many rebates and benefits being included in the purchase package, the following criticisms still need to be addressed by these cars of the future.
Range. One of the major criticisms for the electric car is its limited range. Imagine having your car run out of fuel every eighty miles of travel. Furthermore, filling it up is not easy as it takes a number of hours to recharge the battery pack. These limitations have not even come close to the ability and availability of fossil fuels for use by a motorist. Also it would be physical impossibility to even replicate the effectivity of a fossil fuel driven car because of the limited energy density of a battery operated vehicle.
Infrastructure. Since the target of the electric cars is the urbanite that has a limited range, there is still an issue regarding infrastructure. Many urbanites do not have space for a garage and most have to park out on the street. This would mean laying out electrical cord to the car, which makes it prime target for vandals and the weather. When driving, there aren't that many electric chargers compared to gasoline stations thus severely limiting the ability of the cars to drive.
Life Span. Another major criticism of the electric car is the life span. This is dictated by the life span of the battery. As like many other battery powered rechargeable appliances, their ability to operate degrades over time. This is also the same with electric cars and their expected life span is just about five years. Thus the expensive purchase ends up in the waste bin after five years and there is a need to replace the most important part of the car, the battery.
While many electric car defenders have ready answers for these criticisms, the reality is these are real issues that beset this car technology. For the first critique, range is to be increased with the improvement of technology. The second criticism is to be addressed as governments and companies are working hand in hand to provide infrastructure for electric car enthusiasts. As for the third issue, researchers have been making great strides in improving the life and reliability of these power sources. While the critics and the vultures continue to hound the electric car, in the end, this technology will change how people transport themselves and carry themselves in the long run.
