Evidence is piling up that electric vehicles are driven much less than gas-powered models, which could sap the tech’s power against climate change if the trend continues.
Driving the news: A new peer-reviewed paper analyzed odometer readings of used cars listed from 2016 to 2022.
- Fully electric cars average nearly 4,500 fewer miles annually than conventional models.
- Battery SUVs also saw a gap, although not as large.
The big picture: The data may signal comparatively fewer high-mileage drivers are making the switch, the authors say.
- And EV owners may be using them as a second car alongside a gasoline model, researchers writing in Joule suspect.
- “Range anxiety” due to “immature” charging infrastructure may be a factor.
Catch up fast: Multiple studies using different methods have reached some version of this conclusion about EV miles.
- For instance, in 2021 we covered a study of California driving habits based on home electricity data.
Areas of Focus: Energy Markets, Transportation
Definition
Energy Markets
Well-functioning markets are essential for providing access to reliable, affordable energy. EPIC research is uncovering the policies, prices and information needed to help energy markets work efficiently.
Definition
Transportation
Mobility is central to economic activity. Yet, a lack of fuel diversity and continued demand growth have made the transportation industry a major contributor to global pollution and carbon emissions....