Rory Reid, Head of YouTube at AutoTrader, shares some of the challenges of owning an electric vehicle (EV) in the UK from personal experience. Reid purchased a used Nissan Leaf and revealed some frustrations with the car.
Reid’s experience also highlighted the rising costs of operating an electric vehicle. Although many people assume that electric cars are cheaper to run, Reid noted that energy costs have become increasingly expensive. Their supplier charged around 38p per kilowatt hour (kWh), which resulted in a cost of £9.12 to charge the car and drive 60 miles. Surprisingly, he found that the cost of running a petrol car was similar at around £11. This challenges the widespread belief that electric vehicles are significantly cheaper to operate.
Additionally, Reid mentioned the need for a parking garage with a charger for regular charging. This requirement may limit the accessibility of electric vehicles for those who do not have access to a private charging station.
The challenges highlighted by Reid’s experience with the Nissan Leaf coincide with a decline in electric vehicle sales towards the end of the year as private buyers raise concerns about rising costs and the availability of charging infrastructure.
Although electric vehicles offer numerous benefits, such as lower emissions and a more enjoyable driving experience, it is important for potential buyers to consider these challenges before purchasing.
