Owning an electric vehicle (EV) has some fantastic benefits. With rising petrol prices, the convenience of charging it at home or the nearest charging station to you helps keep transportation costs down. However just like with everything in life, some disadvantages also come with having one of these vehicles. Range and the lack of charging spots are among those that easily come into mind. While the auto industry is working hard to address these limitations, these factors and more significantly impact the driving experience in an electric car.
We have witnessed first hand the trend of EV charging hit Sydney. We have spoken to electricians who regularly carry out ev charging installations daily, which more often than not involve upgrading your switchboard to a 3 phase switchboard. Based on our professional experience the most common issues with EVs are charging times, home set up costs, range and expensive components
Common EV Issues and Limitations
Like most general motor cars, electric vehicles also come with their own set of limitations. These downsides are something car owners should be aware of before purchasing an EV. These limitations might affect how they use their car and their expectations of the driving experience it brings.
The following are usual issues and limitations of an EV:
- Charging time – The time it takes for an EV to charge is a significant factor that could make or break the full experience of driving an electric car. While it only takes a couple of minutes to refill petrol, it usually takes about 15 minutes to 48 hours to recharge an EV. The type of charger impacts the duration needed to juice up this vehicle. The answer to this shortcoming is to install an EV charger at home. This piece of equipment helps keep the car battery charged overnight. With a handy charger at the garage, it ensures that it is ready to be driven in the morning or any time the driver needs it.
- Cost – As well as the upfront costs, installing a EV charger at home will require you to upgrade your current electricity supply through switchboard upgrade which can lead to additional and unexpected costs both upfront and through recurring energy bills.
- Battery fires – While EVs have fewer chances of catching fire, it is harder to extinguish a battery fire if it happens. Larger amounts of water and even a special fire extinguisher may be needed when electric cars catch fire. On the bright side, these vehicles also take longer to catch fire compared to ICE vehicles. It means more time for the driver and his passengers to get a safe distance from the EV.
- No standard plug – The inability of the automotive industry to come up with a standard plug for electric cars is another problem with these vehicles. Several adapters are currently used by EVs, including Type 1 AC, Type 2 AC or the Mennekes plug, CCS2 (Combined Charging System), CHAdeMO and the proprietary Tesla plug. The lack of a standard also means it is a challenge to find a compatible charging port.
- Not a 100% “green” vehicle – Unless your EV charger is using a solar panel like that from Tesla, these cars are not 100% carbon neutral. Some EV charging stations still get power from traditional energy grids, including those power plants that emit carbon dioxide.
- Range – The term “range anxiety” has been commonly associated with owning an EV. It refers to the fear of finding oneself in the middle of nowhere without battery juice and no charging station in sight. While Tesla has a wide range of EV charging stations in the US, it is not the same for Australia. Finding yourself with a low battery can lead to a disaster.
- Temperature-sensitive batteries – Extreme temperatures also crucially affect the way EVs perform. These batteries cannot be too hot or too cold as such temperatures can quickly degrade the lifespan of the car battery and its expected range.
What Are The Electrical Problems Affecting EVs?
EVs can suffer from several electric issues, which include:
- Failing temperature sensors
- Faulty display screens
- Malfunctioning exterior lights
- Battery issues
The car is not the only one that can experience electrical issues. For car owners who own an EV charger, their property can also suffer from the consequences of having an improperly installed charger. Working only with highly skilled electricians when installing an EV charger at home. Professional electricians have the know-how on preparing the property for the energy demand of this equipment and how the building can remain safe from hazards associated with its use.
What Are Some Maintenance Issues with Electric Cars?
Electric cars also need maintenance. While their needs differ from that of a regular car, regular upkeep is a must to have them running smoothly. The following maintenance issues are commonly observed in EVs:
- Quick depleting battery
- Be mindful of car battery temperature
- Know the difference between daily drives and long road trips
- Use regenerative braking
- Regularly replace coolant
- Tyre maintenance
- Maintain EV gearbox
- Have an expert check the EV’s motor routinely
Aside from maintaining your EV, EV chargers also need regular upkeep. Those who own a Tesla should work with a tesla ev installation electrician team possessing the necessary experience and skills to install, maintain and repair wall connectors sold by the manufacturer.
Choose the Top Mechanic in Sydney Today!
EVs are not something we specialise here at Peninsula Auto Clinic, but we can recommend specialist mechanics who have the skills to attend to the unique needs of this car. But for those who own a fuel powered vehicle, we are well-trained to handle these cars’ maintenance needs and repairs. We have the most experienced and highly trained Northern Beaches mechanics. All have met the requirements set by NSW Fair Trading as well as the required courses in Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology and Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.
With these skills, we have been offering a wide range of car services and repairs. Our team specialises in brake service, exhaust repair, 4WD service and pink slip inspections, among other vehicle inspections and repairs. Contact Peninsula Auto Clinic now to experience why petrol car owners on this side of Sydney continue to trust our mechanics for car services and repairs even more than 25 years!
