Quote:
Originally Posted by JamesNoBrakes
For a large number of drivers, it doesn't have to equal it, it just has to be at a practical level, which it has gotten to with the Model S and the other Teslas. I would argue that the Nissan Leafs and other similar vehicles constrain a far smaller cross-section of potential buyers, but at the Model S ranges, it is practical enough for quite a variety of drivers. There are other solutions too, like switching batteries and so on. Technology is moving forward, taking some people kicking and screaming. I may have just invested in a V8 monster  , but this technology is moving forward and it is practical for many people right now, it will only continue to improve. |
Yet BEVs are barely over 1% market share. It's not equal, EVs are range-limited regardless of DC fast charging or Tesla super charging. There is one battery-swapping location for Tesla in California two years after Musk unveiled it. The market likes to have unlimited range ICE power and is willing to pay for it, especially when it comes at not cost penalty.
I'd love to have an EV for my commute. The Bolt fits the bill in all but Winter range capability and body style; I can live with the exterior in black, but the interior styling is not to my taste. I'm hoping GM will see fit to build a sports sedan off the bolt chassis. If I was Mary Barra, that's where I'd spending company resources at the moment. I've driven the Bolt and Volt (Gen 1) and really enjoyed both. GM has the chassis engineers at Cadillac to make a great handling car, it is no longer a mystery to GM. The problem is there is no market share worthy of the investment.
People are just to used to 5 minute, 400+mile range refueling stops. EVs just don't offer a better solution to what is already available. I think an EV with a 600 mile range and 6 - 10 hour refueling stop would be equivalent in the eyes of most consumers.