My partner and I were relatively early adopters of an electric vehicle, purchasing a Renault Zoe in autumn 2020 amidst the pandemic. At the time, it seemed like the logical choice to embrace the future of electric cars. However, our journey with our electric vehicle has been a rollercoaster of experiences and challenges.
In the first year of owning our electric car, we encountered a chaotic world of different charging companies and apps, leading to confusion and frustration. We grappled with range anxiety, wondering if the car would truly go as far as the battery indicated, only to have it replaced by charge anxiety as we struggled to find working chargers. Lifestyle changes ensued, some positive such as increased train usage, while others negative like the gender division over apps and charging points. The idea of embarking on a 700-mile drive across France seemed daunting. Despite these difficulties, we managed to find some silver linings and ended the year on a relatively positive note.
As time passed, we assumed that the government would make strides in making electric vehicles more accessible and user-friendly. However, as we near the end of our finance agreement on the car, we find ourselves questioning whether the effort of owning an electric car is truly worth it. We are not alone in this sentiment, as statistics show a decline in enthusiasm for electric vehicles and the motor industry struggling to meet sales targets.
Our dealership was surprised to learn that we were still open to the idea of another electric car, given our unique circumstances. Unlike most EV drivers, we rely on public charge points, mainly lamp-post chargers in our area. Despite the challenges, we have found our electric car to be reliable and easy to maintain. Charging from lamp-posts has become second nature, although there are still areas with limited charging infrastructure.
The financial aspect of owning an electric car has its pros and cons. While the initial cost of our car was higher than an equivalent petrol vehicle, the savings on fuel and maintenance have been significant. However, the value of secondhand electric cars has plummeted, leaving us in a predicament where we owe more than the car is worth. This, coupled with issues with spare parts and market saturation, has dampened the appeal of electric cars for many consumers.
Despite the challenges, we are hesitant to give up on electric cars entirely. The idea of reverting to petrol feels like a step backward, especially considering the environmental benefits of electric vehicles. While hybrids and plug-in hybrids are options, they come with their own set of limitations and complexities. We remain hopeful that the government will incentivize EV driving and make the infrastructure more user-friendly.
In conclusion, our journey with our electric car has been a mix of highs and lows. While there have been challenges and uncertainties, we still believe in the potential of electric vehicles to revolutionize the way we drive. As we navigate the decision of what car to choose next, we are hopeful that the future of electric cars will become more seamless and rewarding for drivers like us.