People Who Switch to EVs Swear by Them... But Why?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer futuristic machines or luxury statements for the elite. They’re practical, refined, and rapidly becoming the mainstream choice for modern mobility. Yet, many people still hesitate to make the switch — often due to misconceptions about price, range, reliability, and environmental impact.
However, if you talk to people who’ve already made the switch, you’ll hear something different. They swear by their EVs. Once they go electric, most say they’d never go back to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Let’s explore why that’s the case, and what’s driving this undeniable shift.
“EVs Are Too Expensive” — Not Quite True
Yes, on paper, EVs seem pricier than their petrol or diesel counterparts. But the story doesn’t end at the sticker price. The total cost of ownership — what you pay over years of usage — tells a very different story.
For starters, EVs make up for their higher upfront cost with better performance, smoother ride quality, and superior safety features. Many EVs sold in India today boast 5-star safety ratings from organizations such as Bharat NCAP (BNCAP), Euro NCAP, and Global NCAP. Achieving this rating isn’t easy, yet EVs from brands like Tata, Hyundai, and BYD consistently score high on safety benchmarks.
Moreover, running costs are dramatically lower. With electricity rates averaging around ₹6–₹8 per unit, an EV can run at about ₹1 per kilometer — a fraction of what petrol or diesel cars cost. Over a five-year period, that difference can save owners several lakhs in fuel expenses alone.
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“EV Batteries Hurt the Environment” — Only Part of the Picture
It’s true that manufacturing EV batteries has an environmental cost. Extracting lithium, cobalt, and nickel does leave a carbon footprint. However, the total lifecycle emissions of an EV are still significantly lower than those of ICE cars.
Here’s why: once on the road, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. Over years of driving, the lack of fuel combustion offsets the initial battery manufacturing footprint. In fact, studies have shown that EVs can become cleaner than petrol cars within just two years of use, depending on driving patterns and grid electricity sources.
Additionally, recycling technologies for EV batteries are improving rapidly. Major companies are already investing in circular battery ecosystems where valuable minerals can be reused, further reducing waste and environmental damage.
So, while EVs aren’t perfectly green, they are undeniably greener than what most of us drive today.
“EVs Are Unreliable” — Not Anymore
This myth probably comes from the early days of electric mobility when EV technology was still new. Today, that’s far from reality. Modern EVs are built on decades of global research and innovation. In fact, many of the vehicles arriving in India are based on platforms already proven overseas.
Unless a company is completely inexperienced in EV production, the chances of a breakdown or system failure are very low. The electric powertrain itself has far fewer moving parts than a traditional combustion engine — meaning less wear and tear and fewer components to fail.
Routine maintenance is also simpler. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no transmission fluids. Just periodic checkups for tires, brakes, and battery health. It’s not unusual for EV owners to go months without visiting a service center.
“You Can’t Drive Long Distances” — You Absolutely Can
This one’s a favorite among skeptics. But here’s the thing — range anxiety often stems from mismatched expectations. If you buy a car with a 300 km range, you can’t expect it to deliver 500 km on a single charge. The key is choosing an EV that fits your travel needs.
For those who travel frequently between cities, cars offering 450-500 km of real-world range are now available in India. That’s more than enough for interstate travel with just one quick charging stop.
Charging infrastructure, too, has come a long way. Major highways now have fast chargers at regular intervals. Even smaller towns are catching up fast, thanks to government and private initiatives. If India had fast chargers at even one-third the number of petrol pumps, long-distance travel would be completely worry-free — and we’re steadily heading in that direction.
“The EV Industry Is Failing” — Quite the Opposite
Despite occasional market skepticism, the EV sector in India is thriving. In Calendar Year 2025 alone, India sold over one lakh EVs, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing.
Global giants like Tesla and VinFast are entering the market, while homegrown leaders such as Tata Motors and Mahindra are preparing a new wave of advanced EVs. With government incentives, growing local manufacturing, and robust demand, the industry’s outlook is brighter than ever.
Every indicator — from sales figures to charging network expansion — suggests that India’s EV revolution has truly begun.
So, Why Do People Love EVs So Much?
Once you drive an EV, it’s hard to go back. The reasons are many:
- Incredibly Low Running Costs: With no petrol or diesel expenses, owners save significantly on daily commutes. Home charging makes the experience even more affordable and convenient.
- Free or Cheap Charging with Solar Panels: For homeowners with rooftop solar systems, charging an EV can cost almost nothing. Some even enjoy a “zero running cost” lifestyle.
- Convenient Home Charging: No more waiting in queues at petrol stations. Plug in your car overnight, and it’s ready by morning.
- Low Maintenance: EVs require minimal upkeep compared to traditional cars — no engine oil, no exhaust, and no clutch to worry about.
- Smooth, Silent Rides: The absence of engine noise makes EVs whisper-quiet. It’s a calm, luxurious driving experience.
- Instant Torque: The acceleration feels instant and powerful, making every drive fun and responsive.
- Advanced Safety & Tech: Features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and other ADAS functions make EVs smarter and safer.
- Better Cabin Comfort: Thanks to flat-floor designs (no transmission tunnel), rear passengers enjoy more legroom and space.
EVs aren’t just cars — they’re a reimagined driving experience that combines performance, comfort, and sustainability in one sleek package.
The Only Complaint: More Fast Chargers Needed
If there’s one concern that almost every EV owner shares, it’s the need for more fast-charging stations. While the situation is improving, the infrastructure still has room to grow.
If India could establish fast chargers at even a third of the number of existing petrol stations, long-distance EV travel would become completely seamless. Thankfully, both private players and public initiatives are actively working toward that goal.
Final Thoughts
The shift toward electric mobility isn’t just a trend — it’s an evolution. EVs are cleaner, smarter, and more efficient than their ICE counterparts. They’re also redefining what it means to own and enjoy a car.
For many, the first drive in an EV feels like a glimpse into the future. And once you experience that effortless torque, quiet cabin, and unbeatable running costs, you realize why people who switch to EVs never look back.
