A record 1.2 million electric vehicles were sold in the U.S. last year, according to Kelley Blue Book.
The EV space is on a roll as issues that previously concerned motorists, like range anxiety, are no longer hot-button issues. You can get an EV offering 300 to 400 miles of range or more, and EV charging infrastructure continues to expand. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement.
Consider these 18 hidden issues with EVs that nobody wants to discuss these days.
Towing Slashes Range
It’s easy to find EVs with impressive towing specs. But you won’t hear as much about the range hit that comes with towing a utility trailer, camper, or anything else. For instance, a towing test conducted by MotorTrend finds that using a Rivain R1T to tow around 9,000 lbs slashes the driving range by an average of 45%. Let that range hit sink in.
Extreme Temperatures Lessen Range
According to Consumer Reports, frigid weather can reduce driving ranges. It says that ranges drop by around 25% when driving at 70 miles per hour versus driving at the same speed in more moderate weather.
Long Charging Times
Yes, the EV charging infrastructure continues to expand, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have to wait in line. One source notes it’ll take less than 30 minutes to give your Tesla 150 to 200 miles of range. While that’s not a horrible amount of time compared to some slower-charging EVs, it still takes a fraction of the time to fill up at a gas station.
EV Charging Stations Sometimes Go Down
You can use your EV’s route planner to find the best charging stations, but what happens if one, a few, or all the EV chargers are out of commission? While a complete meltdown is rare, it’s not unheard of.
Costly Battery Replacement
EV batteries are expensive. You can expect to pay between $7,000 and $30,000 for a replacement battery pack. Meanwhile, a new car engine can set you back $4,000 to $10,000. For the cost to buy a new EV battery, you can purchase another EV instead.
Reliability Issues
While EVs have fewer moving parts and should require less maintenance than internal combustion engine cars, they also have more reliability issues. Consumer Reports notes in its “2023 Annual Auto Reliability” survey that EVs have 79% more issues than traditional vehicles.
Steep Depreciation
EVs tend to depreciate faster than traditional vehicles. That’s why some people prefer to lease EVs for a few years rather than finance them. Buying an EV and watching the value drop like a rock can be demoralizing. So, leasing can be a more financially prudent option.
Higher Insurance Premiums
One source notes that EV insurance premiums are as much as 20% higher than for traditional vehicles. Monthly premiums for EVs are higher because repairing these high-tech machines can be more expensive and parts availability can sometimes be an issue.
Registration Fees
Owners of gas and diesel cars often pay a gas tax in their respective states. While EVs don’t require gas, EV owners must do their fair share in footing the bill for road repairs and maintenance. The registration fees can range from about $50 to hundreds of dollars annually.
Costly Add-on Features
Some EV manufacturers require extra payments to unlock more features and functionality. For instance, you might have to fork over more money to lower the 0-60 mph time or to get more semi-autonomous driving capabilities. It can feel like a money grab…because it is.
Home Charging Stations Cost…a Lot
Depending on the source, you could pay up to $2,500 for an EV charging station at home. You may need a licensed plumber to upgrade your panel and set up your EV charger properly.
Shorter Lifespan for Tires
EV tires can last 30,000 to 40,000 miles, while tires for internal combustion engine vehicles can last 55,000 to 85,000 miles. Why the discrepancy? EVs are heavier and have more torque than traditional vehicles, which lowers the lifespan of the tires.
Fast Chargers Cost a Lot
While DC fast chargers can get your EV topped up faster than AC chargers, you’ll pay a premium. Keep in mind, as well, that older EVs might not be able to use DC charging.
The Wrong EV Can Make Road Trips Tedious
Many EVs are great for road trips. But if yours has too little range, road trips will be a chore. Do you want to spend as much time at EV charging stations as you do on the road? No.
Some Areas Are Not EV-Friendly
The EV charging infrastructure is much better than a few years ago. But if you live in a rural area, these stations might be few and far between. It could make EV ownership challenging.
EVs Cost More Than Traditional Cars
According to Edmunds, the average electric compact SUV has a starting MSRP of $53,048 versus $35,722 for the average compact crossover with a gas engine. You’ll pay a premium for a new EV. If you want to go electric, prepare for a higher upfront cost.
Harder to Find Mechanics Skilled in EV Repairs
Finding a qualified auto mechanic to work on your EV might be more difficult than you think. Fixing EVs requires specialized tools and training, so you’ll have to go to dealerships specializing in your EV make and model.
Questionable Resale Value
New EVs are depreciating at an alarming rate. As was mentioned above, that’s one reason many consumers are leasing rather than financing EVs. But if you buy one and later want to sell it or trade it in, the heavy depreciation might surprise you.
EVs Are Great But Know What You’re Getting Into
EVs are here to stay. But if you’re going to buy one, know what to expect. The last thing you want is to end up with buyer’s remorse. Researching EVs, finding the right one, and understanding what to expect as an EV owner will go a long way.
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