EV Myth's Debunked

Common Misconceptions about EV's

Common Electric Vehicle Myths

Although electric cars have been around for decades, they are still not as commonplace as vehicles with internal combustion engines. Due to this, there are still a lot of myths and misinformation surrounding EVs. Here are some of the most commonly held misconceptions about EVs, and how the Hyundai range of EVs proves them wrong.

Myth: EVs have a short-range.

FACT: As EV battery technology progresses, the distance an EV can drive on a single charge is constantly improving. For example, the newest generation of the 64 kWh battery model of the Kona Electric can drive up to 484km on a single charge. This makes it a versatile option for various driving patterns: short city trips and daily commutes and longer journeys and distance travel.

Myth: Power supply can't cope with the increase in Electric Vehicles (EV) on NZ roads

FACT: if all light vehicles in New Zealand were electric, our current total electricity demand would increase by around 20%, EECA estimates. This could be accommodated within New Zealand's current electricity grid, even allowing for the uncertainties of renewable generation, provided most EVs are charged during off-peak periods. Source: EECA. 

Myth: There are not enough places to charge an EV.

FACT: Most EV owners will charge overnight. In addition, there is a well-developed charging station network across New Zealand, and this number is growing by the week. Many workplaces, supermarkets and public car parks now offer free EV charging stations as well. You can find a comprehensive list of EV charging locations on the NZTA website and via PlugShare.

Chargenet runs its own comprehensive independent network (with almost 300 chargers), including several 300kw ultra-rapid DC chargers.

Using the in-cable control box, customers can also recharge their Hyundai Electric practically anywhere. This control box is designed to connect to a standard 3 PIN wall socket and recharge Hyundai Electric using a household AC.

If customers prefer at-home charging, the Fast Charge Wall Box is an optional household accessory wall box that improves charge times by utilising a high amperage power supply.

Myth: EVs emit more CO2 than ICE (petrol) vehicles

FACT: EVs have a lower CO2 output across the vehicle lifecycle by 60% than a petrol ICE vehicle used in New Zealand.

In use, EVs produce 80% fewer CO2 emissions, which will fall as New Zealand increases its share of electricity produced from renewable sources.
Source: EECA

Myth: EVs are too expensive.

FACT: Whilst EVs do cost more on average than internal-combustion vehicles at the time of initial purchase, the price gap between them decreases. Charging at home off-peak is like buying petrol at around 40c/l, depending on your electricity retailer (EECA).

It is also important to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) when purchasing an EV. Several studies have shown that the TCO for EVs is comparable or even slightly lower than that of petrol vehicles, not just because in some places globally, electricity is cheaper than petrol, but also because EV owners spend less money on maintenance and repairs. (EECA).

Another metric to look at is residual value. EVs tend to retain a higher percentage of their original value on the used car market than petrol cars.
EVs are also exempt from road user charges until March 21 2024 – a saving of $600 per year on average (source EECA).

Myth: Batteries of EVs cannot be recycled

FACT: There are more than a dozen lithium battery recycling plants operating in the world at the moment. Hyundai New Zealand is a member of the Battery Industry Group (big.org.nz), a collaboration between over 170 businesses and individuals across energy, waste, transport, and battery sectors with large batteries (stationary and mobile) in their value chain.  BIG is actively investigating how EV batteries can be given a second life in New Zealand in solutions such as solar power storage units in residential homes. 

Myth: It is dangerous to charge an electric vehicle in the rain.

FACT: EVs and their chargers are built to withstand weather conditions and are equipped with modern technology to make them just as safe as petrol cars, if not safer. Drivers will have no problem charging their EV when it rains.

For even greater peace of mind, while driving, Hyundai Kona Electric is equipped with the latest active safety and driving assistance technologies, known as Hyundai SmartSense technology. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Driver Attention Warning, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning.

Myth: Electric Vehicles (EVs) can't tow

FACT: Electric Vehicles such as the all-new IONIQ 5 have a tow rating of up to 1600kg (braked) and 750kg (unbraked). This compares to the similar-sized new ICE powered Hyundai Tucson with 1650kg (braked) and 750kg (unbraked). So now you don’t have to leave the trailer at home when you head out in your IONIQ 5.  

Myth: There is no EV on the market to fit my needs.

FACT: The selection of EVs available on the market has widened drastically in recent years. From compact city cars to SUVs, EVs today can meet a wide variety of lifestyles and demands.

Hyundai EVs have been designed to fit everything you and your busy life can throw at it, combining leading safety technology, impressive performance and versatility. With the Ioniq EV, Kona EV, and now IOINQ 5, there is an EV that fits your lifestyle.

Myth: EVs are not fun to drive.

FACT: Nobody ever said that electric mobility had to be boring. In fact, compared to petrol cars, EVs are quieter and offer a smoother ride. In addition, many EVs feature superior acceleration compared to internal combustion vehicles and have improved driving dynamics due to the low placement of the heavy battery.

Thanks to the 395 Nm of instant torque delivered through the all-electric powertrain, the Hyundai Kona Electric is quick off the line, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.6 seconds.

Shift seamlessly between drive, neutral, reverse, or activate the electron parking brake using buttons conveniently located within the central console. With the advanced Smart Brake Regeneration System, control the four levels of regenerative braking for maximum efficiency or use the automatic setting and let the technology decide the best brake regeneration setting for every situation.

Myth: EVs do not look good.

FACT: IONIQ 5 has won the 2021 Design award from Auto Express in the new car awards announced July 7 2021. The described it as “Eye-catching, contemporary and distinctive, it’s a showcase of styling done right; retro without being overtly pastiche, unique without being fussy and, despite its size, well-judged proportions” and “The detailing is fantastic, too – the pixel-like LED lights and fine illuminated slats running the width of the front end are particular highlights – while the vast cabin shows minimalism without compromising functionality”. 

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