Just heard on radio that some 60,000 cars were sold in Britain last month, only 34 of them full electric, despite all the earlier hype and the choice of 7 main makes of them on the market now.
Apparently only 812 of them have been sold altogether since the government started subsidising them some while ago.
Under the latest plans the government have pledged £400 million to aid their introduction, £150 million for infrastructure like charging points and £250 million for direct subsidy to buyers.
The most favourable independent study reports that a typical buyer will still be out of pocket by £5000 after four years use against an ic car, and with replacement battery coming due then, at over £14000 each in one case (Nissan Leaf). The less favourable Low Energy Trust study reports break-even with ic will take 20 years on the same e-car.
I think I was right recently in forecasting the majority will still be driving fossil fuel cars decades into the future. I can't see many wanting to pay this sort of money and being satisfied to keep the same baby e-car for 20 years, especially when the limitations are considered. Long journey? Forget it! Tow a caravan or boat? No chance! Carry four with all their luggage and a couple of bikes on the back to go on holiday or tour? Only in your dreams!
Just think what that £400 million subsidy could have done for e-bike sales!
Apparently only 812 of them have been sold altogether since the government started subsidising them some while ago.
Under the latest plans the government have pledged £400 million to aid their introduction, £150 million for infrastructure like charging points and £250 million for direct subsidy to buyers.
The most favourable independent study reports that a typical buyer will still be out of pocket by £5000 after four years use against an ic car, and with replacement battery coming due then, at over £14000 each in one case (Nissan Leaf). The less favourable Low Energy Trust study reports break-even with ic will take 20 years on the same e-car.
I think I was right recently in forecasting the majority will still be driving fossil fuel cars decades into the future. I can't see many wanting to pay this sort of money and being satisfied to keep the same baby e-car for 20 years, especially when the limitations are considered. Long journey? Forget it! Tow a caravan or boat? No chance! Carry four with all their luggage and a couple of bikes on the back to go on holiday or tour? Only in your dreams!
Just think what that £400 million subsidy could have done for e-bike sales!
