8 myths about EVs: unmasking the reality
1. “Electric vehicles are more expensive than internal combustion engine vehicles”
In reality, while electric vehicles often have a higher initial purchase price, they can be more cost-effective in the long term when considering the total cost of ownership (TCO).
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In France, the monthly TCO of a Peugeot e-208 is 697 euros, while it is 753 euros for a petrol-powered Peugeot 208.
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In leasing, the annual TCO is 4,434.60 euros for the Peugeot e-208, compared to 4,960.32 euros for the petrol-powered Peugeot 208.
Source: Automobile Magazine, Leasygo
Savings on fuel costs due to cheaper recharging compared to gasoline or diesel, along with reduced maintenance costs due to the simpler mechanical structure of EVs, significantly contribute to their financial attractiveness.
For a petrol-powered Peugeot 208, the average cost of a full tank is about 70€, whereas for an electric Peugeot e-208, a full recharge costs approximately 12.50€ in electricity.
Peugeot 208 (petrol):
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Fuel tank capacity: approximately 40 liters
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Average consumption: approximately 6 liters/100 km
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Average cost per liter of petrol: 1.80€
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Range: 750 km, costing 9.5€/100 km
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Total cost of a full tank: 72€
Source: Insee, Automobile Magazine
Peugeot e-208 (electric):
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Battery capacity: 50 kWh
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Average consumption: 17 kWh/100 km
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Average cost of electricity: 0.25€/kWh
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Range: 300 km, costing 4.2€/100 km
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Cost of a full recharge: 12.5€
Source: Automobile Propre, Engie
Moreover, government subsidies and incentives for electric vehicle purchases often offset a portion of the higher initial cost. Taking these factors into account, electric vehicles often represent a financially viable option in the long run, despite a higher upfront investment.
2. “Electric vehicles produce more CO2 emissions than internal combustion engine vehicles”
Electric vehicles (EVs) generally result in fewer CO2 emissions over their entire lifecycle compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. While the production of batteries and the electricity used to charge electric vehicles can emit CO2, this carbon footprint is largely offset by significantly reduced emissions during use. Electric cars produce no direct emissions during operation, unlike internal combustion engine vehicles that burn gasoline or diesel.
In Europe, for instance, average emissions from electric cars are about 50% lower than those from gasoline cars.
Source: International Energy Agency
Furthermore, as electricity sources become cleaner (such as increased renewable energy in the energy mix), the overall emissions associated with electric vehicles continue to decrease.
According to data from RTE (Réseau de Transport d'Électricité), around 92% of the electricity produced in France in 2023 was from low-carbon sources, which is "the lowest level since the early 1950s."
Thus, despite initial emissions associated with their manufacturing, overall, EVs contribute to a net reduction in CO2 emissions compared to internal combustion engine vehicles in the long term.
3. “There aren't enough charging stations in France”
The network of EV charging stations in France is rapidly expanding. Despite initial challenges regarding density and accessibility, significant efforts have been made to improve this infrastructure. Today, most major cities, highways, and urban areas are well-equipped with charging stations, with continued expansion planned in the coming years. As of 2023, there were approximately 118,000 publicly accessible charging points, effectively meeting the growing needs of electric vehicle users (Avere-France). Public and private initiatives further support the installation of new charging stations, making recharging increasingly convenient and accessible across the country.
4. “Charging takes a long time”
Charging electric vehicles has evolved to become faster and more convenient. With technologies like fast charging (DC), many models can now regain a significant amount of range in a short period, sometimes in tens of minutes for a partial charge.
Additionally, most drivers charge their vehicles primarily at home or at work. Thus, the time spent charging can be seen as "hidden" time: while the vehicle is charging, they can engage in other activities without losing time going to a gas station.
For AC charging stations, the average power available ranges from 3.7 to 22 kW. Charging speed depends on the maximum power of the onboard charger in the electric vehicle. For example, a typical electric vehicle could fully recharge in about 6 to 8 hours on a 7 kW AC charger*.
*These averages may vary depending on the specific model of the electric vehicle, battery capacity, and technical specifications of the charging station used.
DC fast charging stations can provide much higher power, typically ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW (or more in some cases). This allows for much faster recharging, where a car can gain significant range in just 20 to 30 minutes. For instance, a 150 kW fast charger can add approximately 100 to 150 km of range in a 20-minute charge*.
*These averages may vary depending on the specific model of the electric vehicle, battery capacity, and technical specifications of the charging station used.
5. “Charging stations for businesses are only for large vehicle fleets”
Charging stations at businesses are not exclusively for large vehicle fleets. Increasingly, businesses of all sizes are installing charging infrastructure to meet the growing needs of employees and customers with EVs. These stations can be integrated into corporate parking lots in various ways, including through energy management solutions that efficiently divide costs and optimize electricity usage. This trend is supported by legislative developments like France's LOM law, which encourages the deployment of charging infrastructure to support the transition to sustainable mobility.
6. “Charging stations at businesses are costly and not profitable”
On the contrary, charging stations installed at businesses offer diverse and economically advantageous opportunities. Through dynamic power management, it's possible to optimize charge distribution, thereby reducing EV operational costs.
Moreover, these infrastructures represent attractive business opportunities. By offering publicly accessible charging stations on their premises or private but paid stations, businesses can not only provide an essential service to employees, collaborators, and visitors but also generate additional revenue.
Furthermore, thanks to the LOM law, businesses benefit from incentives that reduce the installation costs of charging stations. More information here.
7. “Charging stations significantly increase electricity bills”
Studies show that while charging EVs may increase electricity consumption, the effects can be effectively managed with dynamic pricing solutions and intelligent demand management. Through techniques like load balancing, businesses can optimize energy use, efficiently distributing charging over a given period (peak and off-peak hours). This helps limit peaks in electricity consumption and avoids excessive costs associated with simultaneous use of charging stations.
Implementation of load balancing solutions can reduce electricity costs related to EV charging by up to 30%, while ensuring effective and cost-efficient management of the charging infrastructure.
8. “Charging stations require complex regular maintenance”
Charging stations often feature advanced monitoring software that simplifies management and reduces the need for regular physical maintenance. These systems allow real-time monitoring of station status, including availability, utilisation rates, and performance. Essential information such as charge levels, potential failures, and maintenance needs are accessible remotely*, facilitating proactive management and swift issue resolution.
*Note that some issues may still require physical presence for effective resolution to ensure continuous and reliable station operation.