The allure of electric cars once promised a greener, more sustainable future for transportation, but recent developments indicate a growing disillusionment among Americans. In the latest video by Michael Bordenaro, concerns about electric vehicles (EVs) are brought to the forefront. Let’s delve into the key issues raised in the video and explore the broader challenges facing the electric car industry.
Declining Interest and Dealer Dilemmas
Americans’ enthusiasm for electric cars seems to be waning, driven by mounting issues related to charging and range. According to Cox Automotive, the problems are becoming more apparent, leading to a decline in interest in owning an electric car.
The situation has escalated to the point where EV inventory on dealer lots has reached an all-time high, leaving many Americans skeptical.
Bordenaro, a self-proclaimed tech geek, opens the discussion by acknowledging his fondness for new technology but expresses a stark contrast when it comes to electric cars. Despite the ongoing technological advancements, the issues surrounding EVs raise concerns for many potential buyers.
Infrastructure Woes and Cold Weather Challenges
One significant obstacle highlighted in the video is the lack of adequate charging infrastructure, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions.
The recent incident in Chicago, where hundreds of Teslas were stranded due to charging difficulties in cold weather, serves as a prime example. Bordenaro emphasizes the impracticality of electric cars for those without the convenience of home charging stations.
As automakers invest billions in the electric future, the reality is that consumers are not keeping pace with the industry’s optimism. Data from Cox Automotive reveals a doubling of EV inventory on dealership lots over the past year, reaching a record 114 days’ supply in December 2023.
This surplus poses a significant challenge for manufacturers as traditional internal combustion engine cars continue to outsell their electric counterparts.
Pushback Against Unrealistic Mandates
The video mentions a joint effort by 4,000 car dealerships nationwide, urging President Biden to reconsider ambitious government mandates for electric vehicles.
The proposed plan aims for more than half of all U.S. auto sales to be electric by 2030. However, the dealerships argue that the current challenges, combined with consumer reluctance, make such targets unrealistic.
A survey mentioned in the video indicates that over 50% of Americans are now reluctant to drive an electric car. Factors contributing to this hesitation include “range anxiety” – the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station – and the substantial cost difference.
On average, electric cars are $113,000 more expensive than their internal combustion engine counterparts.
Despite the push for an all-electric future, many consumers are leaning towards hybrid models. These vehicles, combining gas and electric power, offer a compromise, especially for those concerned about charging infrastructure and range limitations. The video suggests that dealerships report a higher interest in hybrids than in all-electric models.
The Plateau in EV Sales and Market Realities
While electric car sales experienced a significant surge during the pandemic, recent data indicates a plateau. In 2022, EV sales rose by 60%, followed by a 47% increase in 2023.
However, projections for 2024 suggest a more modest 11% growth, signifying a potential shift in consumer sentiment. Major automakers, including Ford and General Motors, are adjusting their production plans accordingly, reflecting the market’s realities.
The video challenges common misconceptions about the environmental benefits of electric cars. While EVs generate no emissions during operation, the source of electricity remains a crucial factor. The majority of electricity production in the U.S. still relies on fossil fuels, diminishing the claimed eco-friendly advantages of electric vehicles.
Safety Concerns: Weight and Fatalities
An often-overlooked aspect discussed in the video is the weight disparity between electric and internal combustion engine cars. Electric cars can be significantly heavier, leading to higher fatality rates in accidents.
The video questions how this safety concern will be addressed as the number of electric cars on the road continues to grow.
Beyond purchasing costs, the video sheds light on the potentially exorbitant repair expenses associated with electric cars. Tesla, for example, reportedly charges over $20,000 for a battery pack replacement. The video cites instances where independent repairs cost significantly less, but the overall sustainability of electric cars remains a critical consideration.
People in the comments are not fans of EVs: “As a Mechanic Michael, I own a 1974 Chevy pickup, a 50 year old truck with the original engine, transmission and stills runs great for it’s age and condition, I doubt an EV will last that long, they even say that the battery lasts only 8 years on average. Driving in town and suburbs an EV is fine, but in the middle of nowhere it’s not practical.”
“Insurance is thru the roof as well. Most of the time electric vehicles are totaled out because it simply doesn’t make sense to fix or would be more expensive than a new car itself. Insurance is using that as an excuse to skyrocket the insurance premiums for these vehicles.” added another commenter.
One person concluded: “Outrageous prices, outrageous charging times, outrageous it doesn’t work in winter in snow, I’m outrageous to leave these out of my life for countless reasons.”
Navigating the Road Ahead
As the electric car industry navigates a challenging terrain, consumers are left to weigh the convenience of sustainable technology against the practical challenges currently facing the market.
The video by Michael Bordenaro serves as a catalyst for a broader conversation about the future of transportation. While electric cars hold promise, addressing issues such as charging infrastructure, affordability, and safety concerns is crucial for fostering wider acceptance and ensuring a sustainable shift towards greener mobility.
The road ahead may be uncertain, but acknowledging and addressing these challenges is a crucial step towards a more sustainable and inclusive electric future.
What do you think? Are we witnessing a temporary setback, or is this the end of the road for electric vehicles in the eyes of the American consumer?
As we grapple with the challenges of electric cars, what adjustments must automakers make to ensure a smooth transition to a greener future? Could consumer apprehension towards electric vehicles be an opportunity for innovation and a reevaluation of our approach to sustainable transportation?
