The Prevalence of Electric Vehicles as Primary Transportation
Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant traction in recent years, and their role as a primary mode of transportation is becoming increasingly prominent. The percentage of people using EVs as their primary mode of transportation is higher than one might initially think, and this report delves into the reasons behind it.
Personal Experience with Model Y
Since acquiring my Model Y in late December, it has become my primary mode of transportation. Within a mere 6 months of purchase, I have logged over 11,000 miles. This substantial usage clearly indicates the reliability and convenience of electric vehicles as a primary means of transport.
We do not possess another car at the moment, aside from a rarely driven 2003 Buick. We plan to sell this vehicle as our current EVs meet all our daily transportation needs. Those who own both an EV and an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle typically use the ICE vehicle only for specialized purposes such as towing a trailer or when there is no alternative due to their partner owning the EV.
Adoption by EV Owners
Most EV owners I know would prefer to avoid using their ICE cars and have adopted EVs as their primary mode of transportation. The convenience and environmental benefits of EVs are significant enough to make this shift appealing. Once owners become confident with their EVs, they tend to replace any ICE vehicles they may have.
A personal anecdote highlights this trend: one friend owns a Tesla Roadster, and its occasional use was due to its unconventional nature, much like amusement rides have minimum height requirements. Another friend has both a Tesla Model S and a Nissan Leaf, using the Model S for long-distance travel and the Leaf for local errands due to its superior town driving experience.
Regular Use of EVs
Only a small fraction of EV owners use their vehicles irregularly. Most regularly drive their EVs as their primary transportation. I have many friends with EVs, almost all of whom use them as primary vehicles, some even switching from a gas vehicle to another EV upon gaining confidence with their EV.
A case in point is a 2012 Toyota Sienna Limited Minivan that I had in my garage for years, rarely used. The decision to keep it became questionable as it involved paying registration fees and insurance for a vehicle that was seldom utilized. Eventually, we sold it, leaving our EVs as our sole means of transportation.
Conclusion
The prevalence of EVs as primary transportation is growing, and this trend is set to continue. EV owners have found that their electric vehicles are versatile, reliable, and environmentally friendly, making them the most preferred mode of transportation for the majority of users.