Chapter 1: The Long-Distance Driving Debate

The notion that you can't travel 500 miles without interruptions in an electric vehicle (EV) is a common argument posed by some petrol and diesel car enthusiasts.

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

Recently, on February 14th, the European Parliament endorsed legislation that will prohibit the sale of gasoline and diesel vehicles after 2035. This development has sparked discussions about whether electric cars can adequately meet the diverse needs of drivers.

Section 1.1: The Reality of Long Trips

I’ve observed a variety of discussions on Twitter, where some users assert that long-distance travel at high speeds can only be accomplished with traditional combustion engines.

While I understand their viewpoint, they have a valid point. If your journey spans 500 miles or more without breaks and you wish to maintain speeds of 70 mph or higher, electric vehicles may not be the best option. Depending on the model, you might find yourself stopping every 100 to 200 miles for 20 to 50 minutes to recharge. In contrast, a petrol vehicle often allows for a quick 10-minute refueling, enabling you to cover long distances with fewer interruptions.

Subsection 1.1.1: Acknowledging the Convenience of Traditional Vehicles

Even the most ardent supporters of electric cars, including myself, cannot overlook the convenience that petrol and diesel vehicles offer for extended trips.

Section 1.2: Advantages of Electric Vehicles

Despite their long-distance limitations, electric vehicles present numerous benefits that make them preferable in many scenarios:

• Environmental Impact: EVs produce zero emissions during operation. While there are arguments regarding the environmental cost of manufacturing electric cars, their operational cleanliness is unquestionable.
• Cost-Effective Commuting: Charging at home or work is often less expensive and more convenient than refueling a petrol vehicle. Though the initial investment for an EV might be higher, the overall ownership costs can be lower if used consistently.
• Enhanced Driving Experience: The quiet, smooth ride free from vibrations, along with the instant torque provided by electric motors, makes driving an EV enjoyable.
• Reduction of Operational Costs: If you can utilize solar panels or access free charging, the ongoing costs associated with EVs can diminish significantly compared to traditional fuel vehicles.

Chapter 2: The Future of Electric Vehicles

The first video showcases a long-distance journey in an electric vehicle across Texas, exploring the realities of traveling nearly 500 miles.

As we look to the future, electric vehicles still face challenges, particularly regarding the expansion of charging infrastructure, which needs to become more user-friendly and widespread.

The second video captures a personal experience of a first-time EV driver, highlighting the journey from Scotland in a Tesla Model 3 SR+.

Ultimately, it’s essential to recognize that our collective choices impact the planet we share. With CO2 emissions contributing to global warming and pollutants causing significant health issues, the transition to electric vehicles is not merely a matter of personal preference; it’s a necessity. If legislative measures are required to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles, then that is a step we must take.

This brief exploration aims to summarize these pressing issues, moving away from my usual longer articles. I welcome your thoughts and feedback.

If you found this discussion intriguing, you might also appreciate my article on:

Traveling in a Tesla: Not for Everybody

After several months, six road trips, and 8,000 miles, I believe I have some insights to share.

Additionally, if you’re interested in more quality articles, consider joining Medium through my referral link.