5 of the most common myths about electric cars debunked
It’s no secret that electric cars are getting increasingly popular in Canada — in fact, they made up for 7.7 per cent of total vehicle registrations per quarter in 2022 alone. So, why are there still so many misconceptions about them?
From worries about maintenance costs to doubts about their range, electric vehicles (EVs) face their fair share of skeptics. But, it turns out, many of those so-called facts are totally false.
We’ve teamed up with Nissan Canada, the producer of the OG mass-market EV, to debunk those outdated myths once on for all.
Here are 5 myths about electric cars we’re leaving behind in 2024.
Myth 1: EVs can’t go on road trips
Think EVs can’t go the distance? Wrong! New EV models are built to take you farther than ever before.
A great example of this is Nissan Canada’s ARIYA, which can travel up to 465 km on a single charge. That’s like driving from Toronto to Ottawa, Vancouver to Kelowna (with some kms to spare), or Calgary to Jasper. This vehicle even features an intelligent route planner that can map out your trip and direct you to charging stations along your route.
Myth 2: EVs can’t handle Canadian winters
Sure, EVs perform best when weather conditions are ideal. Just like gas vehicles, both lose some range in the cold due to efficiency loss — it’s just the way it is. But that doesn’t mean your winter plans need to freeze!
The Nissan ARIYA comes with features like the thermal management system, which lets you preheat and protect your battery before heading out or plugging in for a charge. This ensures optimal performance even in the cold.
Nissan Canada EVs are built to handle Canadian snowfalls with instant torque and advanced driver-assist tech. The ARIYA offers e-4ORCE All-Wheel Drive, which smartly shifts power between wheels based on slippage, so tricky terrain won’t be a problem.
Myth 3: There isn’t enough charging infrastructure in Canada
Actually, there are over 25,000 public charging stations in Canada! Each one has multiple chargers and hundreds of stations offer super-fast Level 3 chargers. Level 3 chargers can take the Nissan ARIYA’s 63 kWh battery from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in as little as 35 minutes.
Plus, the new NISSAN ENERGY Charge Network allows Nissan Ariya and future Nissan EV drivers to use their MyNissan app to find charging stations, see real-time charger availability, and pay for charging all in one streamlined experience.*
The Charge Network includes access to Tesla Superchargers and partners, including ChargeHub, Shell Recharge, FLO, BC Hydro, Circuit Electrique, ChargePoint, IVY, SWITCH, and Circle K, with plans for more in the future.
Myth 4: EVs are only convenient for city driving
EVs are definitely not just for city dwellers. In fact, the Nissan ARIYA can navigate some really wild conditions — just check out how the ARIYA fared on a pole-to-pole expedition.
The ARIYA offers all of the comfort and luxury you need for your everyday grocery trips or commutes to work, but it’s also got enough power for a variety of different outdoor adventures. Its large carrying capacity, increased range, and up to 1,500 lbs of towing power on AWD models mean can always be adventure-ready.
Myth 5: EVs come with more maintenance costs
When you own an electric vehicle, you’ll actually have fewer things to worry about.
Yes, they still require standard service and maintenance, but there’s no combustion engine or traditional gearbox to keep up. You don’t need to replace engine fluid or change the oil, and the use of regenerative braking also helps preserve your brake pads.
Now when it comes to overall cost, there are currently more affordable EV options hitting the market. Couple this with lower energy costs, and it’s not hard to see how owning an EV can be a better financial move in the long run.
Nissan Canada also offers an EV Care Package Option for Nissan EVs, with perks and benefits like prepaid maintenance options, added security with Extended Coverage on parts and components, 24-hour roadside assistance, and more.
We think it’s safe to say the myths have officially been debunked! EVs like the Nissan ARIYA truly are built to go the distance — whether that means tackling long road trips, handling tough Canadian winters, or ensuring stress-free adventures with intelligent route planning and access to thousands of charging stations.
Ready to hit the road? Find more information on Nissan Canada’s ARIYA and LEAF EV models online and start building your dream ride now.
* Public charging networks are provided by independent companies and are not within Nissan’s control. Availability of charging stations not guaranteed.
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