Uncanny Valley | WIRED
The ‘Wild West’ of EV Charging
Aug 22, 2024
Aarian Marshall, a WIRED staff writer specializing in technology and transportation, dives into the exciting yet challenging world of electric vehicle (EV) charging. He discusses the rise of EVs and the growing concern of 'charging anxiety' that drivers face. Aarian sheds light on the complexities of charging costs and accessibility, particularly for apartment residents. He also highlights the efforts needed for equitable charging infrastructure and the bureaucratic hurdles that delay progress in the U.S., comparing it to faster advancements abroad.
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Quick takeaways
- Charging anxiety persists among EV owners due to the inconsistent availability and functionality of public charging stations, impacting long-distance travel.
- The disparity in charging infrastructure access hinders urban residents, particularly lower-income individuals, from adopting electric vehicles despite government funding efforts.
Deep dives
Electric Vehicle Charging Challenges
Electric vehicle (EV) owners often experience charge anxiety, the stress surrounding the availability and functionality of public charging stations. While overall satisfaction with public charging has improved, many stations are reported to be out of order approximately one-fourth of the time based on data analyses. The inconsistency in pricing for charging is also a major concern, as costs can fluctuate widely, leading to frustrations despite the expectation that EV operation would be cost-effective. Studies indicate an increase in charging prices, which complicates the overall perception of electric vehicle ownership, negating one of the major incentives for potential buyers.
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