In Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training? 3 EV Myths That Keep Sales Down
The Canadian government remains committed to its 100% zero-emissions vehicles by 2035, yet the transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) has proven challenging. Resistance to EVs has been stiff in several parts of the country, with many people citing the cost and impracticality of EVs as the reasons for their apathy towards or mistrust of these vehicles.
Yet, as the report Canadians Awareness, Knowledge and Attitudes Related to Zero-Emission Vehicles notes, the actual reason for the lack of EV uptake in the country is a general lack of knowledge about the vehicles. According to the report, many Canadians continue to hold certain views about EVs that are either now outdated or have been proven to be mere myths. And these myths continue to hold down EV sales in the country.
In this blog, we will explore three myths and how they can be addressed through education and training.
Myth #1: EVs Have Limited or Impractical Range
One of the biggest myths surrounding EVs is their limited range. While it is true that EVs have a typically shorter range than most traditional gas-powered vehicles, their range has been improving rapidly over the years. Most EV owners do not need a long-range vehicle for their daily commutes or errands. Proposed advances in battery technology and increased access to charging stations mean that range anxiety will soon be put to rest.
Addressing this myth requires education and training for both consumers and mechanics. For consumers, it is important to understand their daily driving habits and how they can optimize their EV usage. For mechanics, it is crucial to understand the different components of an EV, such as the battery, and how to diagnose and repair any issues.
Myth #2: EVs Are Expensive
Another common myth surrounding EVs is that they are expensive. According to the report, 63% of Canadians, representing a clear majority, believe EVs are too expensive. EVs certainly require a higher initial outlay than their gas-powered counterparts, but as EV technology develops, these prices are rapidly reducing. And while they can be complicated to access, tax rebates, credits, and incentives for purchasing EVs can certainly offset their purchase price.
All that is even without considering the cost of ownership over time. In automotive school, you’ll discover that EVs require less maintenance because they have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes. Additionally, the cost of charging an EV is typically lower than the cost of filling up a gas tank.
Myth #3: EVs Are Not as Safe as Gas-Powered Vehicles
A further popularly-held misconception of EVs is that safety is an issue with them. This is a misconception based on the fact that EVs have high-voltage batteries, which can be dangerous if handled properly. However, EVs are subject to the same safety standards as traditional vehicles and are designed to meet or exceed these standards. As you’ll discover in hybrid and electrical mechanic training, EVs have some safety advantages over traditional vehicles, such as a lower center of gravity, which reduces the risk of rollovers.
If you’re currently undergoing hybrid and electrical mechanic training, these are some of the challenges to EV uptake you’ll likely encounter in your career. As the Department of Natural Resources recommends, only increased education about EVs can help the government attain its EV mandate. Knowing these myths puts you in a better position to help address them by helping to educate Canadian drivers and car owners.
Do you want to become a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic?
Contact ATC Surrey to learn how to get started.
