The Rise of the Electric Car
The drive towards electric vehicles appears to be gathering pace. Presently, there are about 3.1 million electric vehicles driving on the world's roads. By 2030, the International Energy Agency predicts that this will rise 125 million. In the UK, 60% of new cars are expected to be electric by 2030 with the government announcing a ban on selling new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars by 2030 (announced in November 2020).
Primarily, the change from petrol or diesel to electric vehicles is driven from an environmental perspective. As electricity generation moves from coal to sustainable sources such as wind and solar, the environmentally-friendly identity of the electric vehicle strengthens. Other benefits include saving money on fuel and maintenance. Many owners of electric vehicles even declare that their EVs offer a better driving experience with instant torque providing unrivalled acceleration.
There are also well-reported downsides. The relative low mileage between charges deters many motorists from changing to electric. Battery technology is evolving at a rapid pace and the driving distance between charges continues to stretch. Some motorists are also concerned about the costs of charging at home. The cost of electricity continues to rise and, as the number of electric vehicles increase, may rise further in response to the demand. Additionally, charging points are a concern, especially for those people living in flats and properties without a designated parking space.
The UK's total ban on sales of new vehicles other than electric or others equally defined as environmentally friendly by 2035 puts a huge pressure on the automotive sector. At the end of 2018, there were 38.2 million licensed vehicles in the UK, with the registration of approximately 2.5 million new cars. Presently, car manufacturers are unable to supply 2.5 million new electric cars, with limitations in manufacturing capacity and key components such as batteries.
Classic Electric Vehicles
Despite the motorists love of petrol and diesel engines, the change to electric is happening. This is not just restricted to the average family car.
Jaguar is developing the E-type Concept Zero. The much-loved classic car is based on a 1968 Series 1.5 Jaguar E-type. With the instant torque, the new electric version will accelerate from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds.
In December 2018, Aston Martin announced that they will now convert heritage cars to electric power. The Aston Martin team had identified that the move towards electric may ultimately restrict the driving opportunities of classic car owners. In the press pack, a DB5 Volante was proudly displayed plugged into an electric charger. This is a significant move by Aston Martin. Industry experts anticipate a steady rate of classic car conversions. This will ensure that we do not lose our motoring history. Also, newer models are not exempt and Aston Martin will start production of the all-electric RapidE sports car in 2019. Initially, production is set for a limited production run of 155 cars, but interest has been very high.
The move towards electric does not only affect cars. Čezeta's Motors s.r.o. began production of the electric Čezeta Type 506 scooter in 2017. The look and design fully respects the scooter's heritage. Scooters appear to be one of the most logical vehicles to go electric.
The Future
Many motoring enthusiasts still remain sceptical. There is a love of the roar and smell of a liquid fuelled engine. However, the change to electric cars appeared to be unstoppable.
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Posted by Paul Fears on
6 December 2018 at 12:00 AM
Tags:
Aston MartinCezeta ScooterDB6 Volante ElectricElectric CarsElectric VehiclesJaguarJaguar E Type
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New Technology