Top 11 Myths About EV Charging, Even Industry Insiders Believe

The electric vehicle (EV) industry is booming, but with its rapid growth comes a range of misconceptions, some even held by insiders. Understanding these myths is essential for consumers and businesses alike to make informed decisions about EV adoption and charging infrastructure.

1. Myth: EVs take forever to charge

It’s often claimed that EVs take hours to charge, but with fast-charging stations available, many EVs can charge up to 80% in under 30 minutes. This makes long-range travel feasible without long delays.

2. Myth: Charging an EV is expensive

While early EVs and their charging infrastructure were costly, the prices have come down significantly. Public charging stations often offer affordable rates, and home charging systems can be installed with manageable costs.

3. Myth: You can only charge EVs at public charging stations

Another misconception is that EVs can only be charged at public stations. In reality, most EV owners charge their vehicles at home overnight using regular electrical outlets or home charging stations.

4. Myth: EV batteries need to be replaced frequently

EV batteries have a long lifespan, often lasting more than 8 years or over 160,000 km. Advances in battery technology continue to improve their durability and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

5. Myth: EV charging is difficult to find

As the EV market grows, the number of charging stations is also increasing. Apps and maps make it easy to locate charging points, and many vehicles even show available charging stations directly on their infotainment systems.

6. Myth: EVs don’t work well in cold climates

It’s commonly believed that EVs don’t perform well in cold temperatures. However, modern EVs are equipped with advanced thermal management systems to maintain optimal performance even in freezing weather.

7. Myth: You need a new home electrical system to charge an EV

Upgrading your home electrical system isn’t necessary for most EV owners. Standard home outlets are sufficient for overnight charging, although some may opt for a Level 2 charger for faster charging speeds.

8. Myth: Charging an EV damages the battery

Overcharging an EV battery does not damage it, thanks to advanced charging systems that prevent it. Furthermore, most EVs come with features that optimize charging to enhance battery health over time.

9. Myth: EVs are only for the rich

The price of EVs is steadily decreasing, and more affordable models are now available. Government incentives and rebates further make EVs accessible to a broader range of consumers.

10. Myth: Charging an EV is unreliable

Public charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, and reliability has improved. Many networks now offer mobile apps to check the status of stations in real-time.

11. Myth: EVs don’t have enough range for long trips

Range anxiety is still a major concern, but the reality is that most modern EVs offer over 320 km on a single charge, with some even exceeding 480 km, making long-distance travel viable.

As EV technology advances, so too does our understanding of its capabilities. Dispel these myths, and you’ll see how electric vehicles are becoming more convenient, affordable, and accessible than ever before.

Reference: ‘11 Mitos Tentang Pengecasan EV, Bahkan Dianggap Benar oleh Pakar Industri,’ Forbes (2024)