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5 COMMON EV MYTHS DEBUNKED

17 Oct 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming the future of transportation. With advancements in technology, a growing focus on sustainability, and an increasing number of options on the market, more and more people are considering making the switch from traditional gasoline-powered cars to electric ones. However, despite their rise in popularity, several misconceptions continue to surround EVs, creating hesitation and confusion among potential buyers. In this article, we’ll debunk the top 5 myths about EVs and share some fun facts to give you a clearer look into the reality of EV ownership.
 

Myth 1: “EVs are too expensive to buy and maintain.” 


Contrary to popular belief, the cost of EVs has been decreasing steadily, thanks to advancements in technology and growing availability in the market. Government incentives, rebates, and tax breaks can significantly reduce the initial cost of purchasing an EV, making them more affordable.

In addition to a lower purchase price, EV owners also enjoy substantial savings in terms of maintenance. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars have fewer moving parts, meaning they don’t require oil changes or frequent brake replacements. These reduced maintenance costs make EVs more economical to own in the long run. For a closer look into the costs that go into maintaining an electric car, check out our article for a complete EV maintenance routine checklist.

Myth 2: “EVs don’t have enough range for long trips.”

A common concern among potential EV buyers is that electric vehicles don’t offer enough range to accommodate long-distance travel. However, modern EVs have significantly improved their driving range. For example, our MG4 EV Standard Range has a driving range of 350km, while our MG4 EV Extended Range boasts a whopping 520km! This means that long trips are no longer an issue, since with planning tools and apps, drivers can easily locate charging stations and optimise their routes for efficient travel. The growing availability of charging stations along highways and popular travel routes in Malaysia further eases range concerns and makes EVs more practical for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
 

Myth 3: “Charging an electric car takes forever.”

The perception that charging an EV takes too long is one of the most persistent myths about electric cars. In reality, charging times vary based on the type of charger being used. For instance, Level 1 chargers are slower but convenient for overnight charging at home, while Level 2 chargers offer faster speeds and are commonly available at public stations and workplaces. However, the game-changer is DC fast charging, which can recharge an EV battery up to 80% in just 30-45 minutes. While this may not be as quick as filling a gas tank, many EV owners find that integrating charging into their daily routine—whether overnight at home or during work hours—makes the process seamless. For more details about charging costs, refer to our guide on calculating EV charging costs in Malaysia to see how these factors can work to your advantage.
 

Myth 4: “There aren’t enough EV charging stations.”

Another widespread misconception is that there aren’t enough charging stations available in Malaysia to support EV use. The reality is that the charging network infrastructure is expanding rapidly, particularly in urban areas and along major highways. Both local and international initiatives are driving this expansion, with more charging stations being installed to meet the increasing demand. As a fun fact, according to the Malaysia Electric Vehicle Charging Network (MEVnet) dashboard, there are currently 2,606 existing EV charging stations available throughout Malaysia as of the time of writing.

Moreover, EV owners can take advantage of various apps and maps designed to help locate nearby charging stations and monitor availability in real-time, ensuring they’re never left without power. As the EV market continues to grow and charging networks become more accessible, the perception of limited charging infrastructure is quickly becoming outdated.
 

Myth 5: “EV batteries need to be replaced often and are costly.”

Another persistent myth about electric cars is that their batteries need frequent replacement and come with high costs. Although replacing batteries is indeed the most expensive part of EV maintenance, EV batteries nowadays are designed to be reliable and long-lasting.

As an example, here at MG, we offer a comprehensive battery warranty that covers 96 months (8 years) or 160,000 km, whichever is sooner. In addition, we also provide a 1-to-1 battery exchange should the battery’s health dip below 70% during the warranty period. With this coverage, we aim to provide peace of mind to buyers who may be concerned about battery degradation.

Despite these common misconceptions, electric cars are more affordable, practical, and reliable than you might think. As EV technology and infrastructure continue to advance, understanding the reality and benefits of EVs can help you make an informed choice and enjoy cleaner, greener driving. If you’re interested in learning more fun facts about EVs, check out our beginner’s guide to EVs in Malaysia. Don’t let myths and misconceptions hold you back — consider the real potential of EVs today! 

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