Pumped Up Or Charged Up? Major Challenges Facing Electric Cars

With Tesla and Google making driverless cars, it seems as if the new age companies are on the rise. And, indeed they are with the company reportedly delivering 20,000 vehicles a month by December this year. As the company started in 2003, this is an impressive and scary figure.

Still, there are obstacles for every business, and electric and driverless car companies are no different. Whether they are flying now or not, there is always a fly in the ointment. Here are the challenges facing them today and in the future.

The Price

From Nissan and Renault to Tesla, the price is pretty car compared to a regular motor. It isn’t only the initial cost, which can range from $20,000 to over $100,000, but it’s also the cost of running the car. If you are thinking about joining the charge, the following might change your mind. It can cost over $20 to charge a car with a 100w battery. Smaller cells exist, but it does increase charging frequency. And, this is without factoring in the inevitable rise in energy prices. As electric cars become popular, the energy firms will look to cash in as they always do.

Lack Of Awareness

Tell the truth: how many models can you name off the top of your head? You might be able to reel off one or two, but it will end at three. Usually, Tesla is the first name on a person’s lips and then it gets harder and harder to think. Sadly, this lack of awareness is more harmful than it is helpful. Because of the price factor, traditional manufacturers are taking advantage. Just take a look at Cars & Co new Porsche dealers and the steady sales of fuel-based vehicles. Even the VW emissions scandal didn’t leave a mark.

Stigma

Those who do know about electric cars don’t help the situation. Apparently, 56% of consumers in the US think they need a car with 300 miles of range. With the first Chevy Volt offering 38 miles, there is a discrepancy in what the cars offer and customer needs. Of course, this has led to a stigma which is hard for the companies to shirk. The general public doesn’t believe they have the power and reliability for their lifestyle. Until it changes, the traditional auto manufacturers will continue to dominate.

PR

Outside of Tesla, there aren’t lots of companies getting the necessary coverage. It is almost as if the media isn’t willing to take it seriously until there is a breakthrough. Obviously, this has a knock-on effect which goes back to the stigma and lack of awareness. Without better coverage in the press, the status quo will never change and electric cars will continue to struggle. In truth, this is probably their biggest challenge as education is the key to success.

Ultimately, these companies look like the future. However, there is a lot of work to do before they can take over.