Will Half of Electric Vehicle Owners Return to ICE Vehicles? The Truth Debunked

It's a claim that has been bandied about in recent years: will half of electric vehicle (EV) owners return to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles? This misconception has been fueled by misinformation campaigns, often initiated by the oil industry. Let's explore the facts and realities behind this claim.

Trucks and Diesel ICEs: Considerations for Certain Scenarios

While it's true that some owners of smaller electric vehicles, such as the Volkswagen ID3, may consider returning to an ICE vehicle for specific reasons, this is not overwhelmingly applicable. For instance, the ID3 is often not rated for towing, which can be a significant drawback for vehicle owners who need towing capabilities. Additionally, the diesel ICE can provide the much-desired feature of having the ability to tow, which is not available in all electric models.

Charging Convenience and Instant Start

One of the perks of owning an electric vehicle is the convenience of home charging. The instant start and acceleration of an EV can be unmatched, akin to the instant entertainment provided by transistor radios compared to tube radios. This instant operation can be a significant selling point for drivers, especially those accustomed to traditional start-up procedures.

Range Concerns and Driving Habits

Range anxiety is a common concern for potential EV owners, but in practice, this is often not as much of an issue as advertised. Many drivers find that a comfortable range of 20 minutes after 2.5 hours of continuous driving is more than sufficient. This extends to urban traffic where stop-and-go driving is common. The responsiveness and silence of an electric vehicle provide a unique and enjoyable driving experience that cannot be replicated in an ICE vehicle.

The Reality of Vehicle Choice

While the vast majority of EV owners are more than satisfied with their vehicles, it's important to acknowledge that there are scenarios where an ICE vehicle might be more practical. For instance, if the goal is to tow a sailboat, models like the Model Y, Rivian, or Ford Lightning may be more suitable. However, these vehicles often come with high price tags and reputational issues. Additionally, the used market for EVs is lagging behind, making it difficult for owners to sell their vehicles and buy a tow-capable ICE vehicle when needed.

It is possible that some owners might not be able to find a suitable EV in the used market for several years, leading to uncertainty about their next vehicle purchase. Nevertheless, when comparing an EV to an equivalent ICE vehicle, the EV often emerges as the better choice in most scenarios. The lack of problems, the enjoyment derived from driving, and the overall environmental impact make an EV the preferred option.

In conclusion, the idea that a significant number of EV owners will return to ICE vehicles is a myth propagated by vested interests. For most drivers, the benefits of owning an electric vehicle outweigh the perceived drawbacks, and the market is slowly but surely moving in the direction of this cleaner, more sustainable technology.