Having an electric vehicle (EV) is a hot topic, signalling a shift in our long-term interests toward innovation and sustainability. Regardless of the increased interest and uptake in EVs, misinformation tends to create a fog around the truth of these vehicles. So, let's charge up our knowledge and debunk these five EV charging myths. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a family considering a second car, or simply curious, these facts will help set the record straight.

1. An EV can't handle long distances.

One of the most persistent EV charging myths is the belief that electric vehicles aren't suitable for the vast Canadian landscapes and long road trips that are a staple of our adventurous spirits. The reality is quite different. EVs come with increasingly large battery capacities, offering more than sufficient ranges for average daily commutes and extended journeys.

With recent advancements, many electric vehicles now boast ranges exceeding 300 kilometres per charge, and some luxury models push the boundary to over 600 kilometres. Additionally, there are more EV charging stations across the country every day, making long-distance travel more practical and convenient.

2. EVs aren't actually better for the environment.

A common argument against EVs is that they're not as eco-friendly as they seem. However, studies have shown that, even when accounting for the electricity generation mix in most regions, EVs produce significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions over their lifetime compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.

3. EV charging is too inconvenient.

The concern over finding charging stations and the time it takes to charge an EV is a common misconception for many drivers considering the switch. Contrary to this belief, charging an EV can be more convenient than refuelling a traditional car. Most EV owners use a home charger overnight, waking up every morning to a "full tank."

For longer trips, the network of public charging stations is continually expanding, including fast-charging stations that can recharge most of an EV's battery in under an hour, such as the ones provided by Ivy. As the infrastructure in every city and town improves and vehicle battery technology advances, charging is becoming faster and more accessible.

4. EV charging is too expensive.

The upfront cost of an EV may be assumed higher than that of a comparable gasoline vehicle. However, the gap in purchase price is narrowing as EV technology becomes more widespread and manufacturing costs decrease.

Additionally, many Canadians don't factor in the long-term savings associated with owning an EV, including lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance expenses (thanks to fewer moving parts and fluids to replace), and government incentives available in several provinces to reduce the upfront cost. When these factors are considered, electric vehicles can be a financially savvy choice in the long run.

Zero emissions with the iZEV program: The iZEV is an economic aid created by the Canadian government to provide easy access to buy EVs. Canadians can purchase fully electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. This economic help makes buying new and used EVs easier for people and businesses without breaking the bank. It's like boosting clean transportation and helping shrink our carbon footprint. Canada has embraced the sustainable vibe, ensuring everyone can enjoy eco-friendly travel.

How it works: The iZEV program offers up to $5,000 off when purchasing or leasing a new zero-emission vehicle. The incentive amount varies based on the type of vehicle and its battery capacity. Fully electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and longer-range plug-in hybrid cars are eligible for the full $5,000 rebate, whereas shorter-range plug-in hybrids might receive a lower incentive. The program is structured to be straightforward for consumers: the dealer applies the discount at the point of sale, meaning the price reduction is immediate, without buyers needing to submit rebate forms or wait for reimbursement.

How to access it? To qualify for the iZEV incentive, vehicles must meet specific criteria set by Transport Canada. These include:

The vehicle's base model Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) must not exceed specific limits, which vary depending on the vehicle type. Basically, this means that the program covers a wider range of affordable electric vehicles. That way, more Canadian drivers can enjoy the benefits of the program.

The vehicle must be purchased or leased for at least 12 months. Individuals, businesses, and certain organizations can apply for the iZEV incentive, although there are limits on how many vehicles they can receive incentives for within a given period.

5. EVs don't perform well in cold weather.

Ah, Canadian winters... a true test for any vehicle. It's been said that EVs hesitate in the face of our challenging winters. While cold temperatures can affect battery efficiency, leading to reduced range, the impact is often exaggerated. EV manufacturers are consistently improving battery performance in cold weather, implementing pre-conditioning systems that warm the battery before use, and optimizing energy usage to maintain range.

Additionally, electric vehicles can offer better traction in snowy conditions due to their low center of gravity and near-instantaneous torque. And let's not forget the convenience of starting your car and warming it up using a smartphone app while it's safely parked in your garage - no more idling in the cold.

Even though there are still myths floating around about electric vehicles, the reality is that they're a sustainable and practical choice for getting around. By clearing up misconceptions and debunking myths, we're setting the stage for a more environmentally friendly future in Canada. So, whether it's the daily commute, a trip to the cottage, or a cross-country adventure, EV charging can get us there sustainably and efficiently.

Stay curious, and keep expanding your knowledge with us! Check out our blogs for more EV insights.