Is EV range anxiety a key factor for you when considering the switch? Then worry not!
Let’s dive into this common concern and see how things are changing and how we are now moving towards a range-confident society. Follow along as we explore a future where assurance takes the wheel, and fills you with calm.
What is EV Range Anxiety and Range Confidence?
Electric Vehicle (EV) range anxiety is the fear of running out of power and getting stranded. Range confidence is having the reassurance you will get to where you need/want to be.
Today’s EVs have higher battery capacity, allowing EV drivers to charge less frequently, while the increased access to the EV charging infrastructure at home, work, and on the go is creating Range Confidence. Level 2 also known as fast chargers supports home and work charging, and DCFC or Rapid chargers supports fleets and destination locations.
The EV revolution is here and now!
The market has made the switch to EVs easier, addressing concerns about finding a charging station for your EV are quickly diminishing as the infrastructure grows. While the cost of EVs is reducing following a report from Transport + Energy: ZEV Mandate is driving down the price of new EVs. Here’s what future EV drivers need to know about driving EVs with a sense of security and confidence.
What Is EV Range Anxiety?
The term “range anxiety” was a common association for early adopters of electric vehicles, who were plagued by their battery electric vehicles (BEVs, also known as fully-electric vehicles) running out of power and the potential of them being left stranded on the roadside.
Experts believe that range anxiety is mostly psychological. Similar to ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle drivers who vary in how often they visit a petrol station, EV drivers may also vary their charging habits based on personality and acceptable risk. As one German study on psychological range noted, “users tend to avoid critical and potentially stressful range situations planning for substantial range buffers… Range buffers are also likely present in conventional ICE vehicles but they are more relevant for EV use.” As refuelling or charging a vehicle requires monitoring and adapting vehicle usage, drivers must adopt their preferred “buffers” according to a risk assessment and understanding of themselves. That means creating a personal range buffer to reduce range anxiety.
It is common for EV driver's views on range anxiety to change and it becomes less of a concern once they have adjusted to driving their EV. While new EV drivers cited running out of power as a barrier to buying an EV, the majority say they had range anxiety when they first purchased an EV, but it went away after a few months. 2022 marked a peak year for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, as the popularity of electric cars surged, leading to robust sales figures. According to EV-Belgium, a contributing factor to this boom might be the significant increase in public charging stations during 2022. Our country saw the installation of as many as 13,000 public and semi-public charging stations last year.
Why Does Range Anxiety Exist?
It’s quite simple: drivers are accustomed to stopping and refuelling at petrol stations, and the idea of driving past one can induce a sense of unease about battery capacity and getting to their desired destination. But what internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle drivers aren’t aware of is that 80 to 90% of charging will occur at home or work while the driver is parked. The “top up” mentality of ICE drivers means the same for EV drivers, except the chore of driving to a petrol station is eliminated and no longer a chore. EV drivers can “top up” their vehicle while they go about doing everyday activities and whenever they see a charging station. With technological advancements and the widespread development of charging infrastructure, there is a clear shift from range anxiety to range confidence.
Blink Charging recently celebrated a record quarter, with nearly 88,000 Blink charging stations being deployed worldwide. This expansion and contribution from various sources are promising as we anticipate new electric vehicle infrastructure. This means that EV owners can now relax and be assured that the EV community is here to support them.
How Expanding EV Charging Infrastructure Creates Range Confidence
Fundamentally range confidence all comes down to increasing the availability of electric vehicle chargers, which is unfolding thanks to investments from the public and private sectors. Another factor is the rapid expansion of fast charging networks, which are alleviating concerns about electric vehicle range during long-distance travel. Fast-charging stations have become more common, reducing charging time and enhancing convenience for drivers travelling long distances.
The Importance of Home Charging Solutions for Range Confidence
Most EV owners regularly or always charge their vehicles at home. That’s why boosting confidence in the BEV range is closely tied to having accessible and affordable home charging options. Charging at home means EV owners wake up with a full battery each day, avoiding the need for frequent stops at public charging stations.
Today’s drivers are looking for advanced Level 2 chargers that offer quicker and more efficient charging. The Blink EQ 200 charger is a smart, affordable, scalable and compact charging solution suitable for small footprints. Available in various configurations, the EQ 200 can be tailored to meet the specific needs of nearly all market segments.
The EV Market is Now
The transition from range anxiety to range confidence stands as a significant milestone in the increasing acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles. Fuelled by technological advancements, an expanding charging infrastructure, and heightened public awareness, drivers can now shift from EV range anxiety to range confidence.