Five EV Charging Misconceptions to Wave Goodbye to in 2025
As we step into 2025, we all can think of at least one thing we wish to leave behind in the old year - and for us, that’s some outdated misconceptions about electric vehicle (EV) charging.
The rapid advancements in EV technology and infrastructure have made many of the concerns people once had about EVs a thing of the past. Let’s dive right into some of the common misconceptions that have no place at all in 2025.
1. EV Home Chargers Are Too Expensive
One of the most persistent myths is that installing an EV charger is an unreasonably high investment. Of course, it is an understandable one: there is indeed an upfront cost associated with installing a home charger. But it’s important to look at the long-term savings, too. Charging an EV at home is far cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel car, or relying on public charging stations. You would save an estimated £1200 each year by charging your EV at home rather than at a charging station. That adds up fast!
For households equipped with solar panels, the savings can be even higher as EV owners can charge their vehicles almost for free using solar energy. For those without driveways, Charge Gully has developed an innovative solution. Their pavement cable gully system allows residents to charge their EVs securely and affordably by running a charging cable across the pavement without creating a hazard.
2. Charging an EV Takes Too Long
Another common misconception is that charging an EV is slow and inconvenient compared to filling up a petrol car. While a full charge from 0% to 100% can take several hours, this is rarely necessary. Most EV owners charge their vehicles overnight or during downtime, topping up rather than starting from empty.
Yes, filling up a tank with petrol takes minutes, but you must be at the petrol station while doing so - whereas an electric vehicle will charge up while you’re sleeping, or doing other activities. Plus, charging times vary depending on the charger type and the vehicle’s capabilities. Modern fast chargers can provide a big boost in as little as 30 minutes, and with proper planning, charging can be integrated into daily routines in such a way that, in the end, it saves you time!
3. You’d Need High-Power Charging at Home
Unless that’s a spaceship you’re charging, no you do not! Many believe that a powerful home charger is essential to own an EV. However, the average car in the UK drives less than 40 miles per day, which requires only a fraction of a full battery. For this level of usage, a standard home plug (1.5kW) or a 7kW home charger is sufficient.
High-power chargers are a great convenience, but they are not a necessity for most drivers. A lower-power solution can still meet daily needs, especially for those who plan their charging habits effectively. This makes the switch to EVs more feasible and affordable for a broader range of households.
4. EV Chargers Cause Fires
Well, so does petrol when not safely handled! Safety concerns have also held back some potential EV adopters, with fears about chargers causing fires or electrical issues. However, modern EV chargers are designed and tested to meet stringent international safety standards. Features like overload protection, short-circuit prevention, and temperature monitoring ensure that chargers are safe to use.
Proper installation by qualified professionals is crucial to maintaining these safety standards. Charge Gully’s innovative pavement cable gully system not only makes charging more accessible but also adheres to strict safety and compliance requirements. By safely running charging cables across pavements without creating trip hazards, it provides a secure and council-approved solution for residents without driveways.
5. The Switch to EVs is Years Away
Some still believe that the transition to EVs is a distant goal. The reality is quite the opposite. The UK government and local authorities are making great strides in accelerating EV adoption, and the numbers paint a clear picture of progress. By the start of 2024, the UK had registered its one-millionth Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV); globally, there are now approximately 26 million EVs on the road.
In the UK, 79% of EV owners use their electric car as their primary vehicle, and nine out of ten drivers use their EV frequently (three or more times per week). The widespread use of EVs is not just a future aspiration but a present reality for millions of drivers. The switch is not far off at all: it’s happening now! Are you joining us in the new year?
Moving Forward in 2025
EVs and their charging solutions have advanced far beyond the limitations of just a few years ago, and things can only get better! Local authorities and decision-makers have a vital role in supporting this transition by expanding charging infrastructure and embracing innovative solutions. With 2024 now firmly in our review mirror, it’s time to also bid farewell to outdated myths and welcome a new era of sustainable, inclusive transport solutions!
