Summary
– Range anxiety and speed of charging are challenges for new EV drivers
– Refuelling mindset change is important for addressing these challenges
– Three different types of behavior around refuelling a car were identified
– Plugging in at home or work is the best for optimum EV usage
– Infrastructure needs to be in the right places to support this change in mindset
Article
A study conducted by Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden and the University of Delaware in the USA has identified the challenges of range anxiety and speed of charging faced by new and potential electric vehicle (EV) drivers. The researchers suggest that a change in refueling mindset, rather than improving the battery size or performance, could address these concerns. The transition from filling up at a petrol station to recharging an electric vehicle requires a new way of thinking about refueling, as drivers may remain stuck in their old mindset, constantly checking the gauge and planning for the next charge point.
The researchers identified three different behaviors around refueling a car: monitoring the fuel gauge, planning a trip, and event-triggered plug-in. The event-triggered model, where drivers automatically plug in at home or work, is found to be the best for optimizing electric vehicle usage. This change in mindset requires the right infrastructure in the right places, such as at home or work, where people spend long periods of time. European cities focusing on roadside charging may need to adapt their policies to provide charging infrastructure close to homes or workplaces.
The study also challenges the notion that having the biggest battery is necessary to reduce range anxiety. Research suggests that a slightly smaller battery can be sufficient for everyday driving, as drivers can charge on the go for longer journeys. Professor Sprei emphasizes that there is too much emphasis on the need for long ranges, leading to increased vehicle prices and resource use. Slow charging overnight or at work is not only cheaper but also better for the health of the battery compared to fast charging on the go.
The new study highlights that for most people’s everyday driving, charging an electric vehicle does not need to be a significant concern. By changing the refueling mindset to an event-triggered plug-in model, drivers can make charging a routine part of their daily life. This can also encourage more people to opt for electric vehicles to meet global emissions targets. The research, presented in an open-access paper in the journal Energy, emphasizes the importance of adapting policies to provide access to charging infrastructure in convenient locations for EV drivers.
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