Are EV Charging Stations More Efficient Than Petrol Stations?  

With EV Charging Stations becoming the norm by 2030, there are many queries regarding the authenticity of the cars. According to Zap-Map, EV Charging Stations have now outnumbered the amount of Petrol Stations in the UK, proving the increasing popularity of electric cars. However, are they more efficient? 

Advantages of EV Charging Stations

Zap-Map reported that as of May 2021, there are 8,471 charging locations across the UK, meaning that there is an approximate total of 13,613 charging devices. Whereas there are currently only 8,400 petrol stations, a number that is constantly declining; proving preferability towards electric vehicles. For those considering the switch, here are some advantages of EV Charging Stations:

  • Convenience – Whether it be at work or home, you can simply charge up your vehicle whenever you want when there is an EV Charging Station on site. Making it quick and easy when you’re on the go, regardless of your location. 
  • Better for the Environment – Both EV’s and EV Charging Stations are more environmentally conscious than the orthodox combustion engine. This is due to the fact that they do not produce greenhouse gases nor other pollutants, in order to run.
  • Easily Accessible – Available on most mobile devices, are free-to-download apps where you can locate your nearest EV Charging Station. 
  • Cost Effective – Charging your EV from the comfort of your own home is incredibly cheaper than charging at Charging Points on motorways. The average cost comes in at just over £3!

Disadvantages of EV Charging Stations

The Electric Vehicle is a relatively new concept, meaning there are still many developments happening within the industry. Thereby, there can be disadvantages to the EV Charging Stations.

  • Cost – According to a recent report, charging an electric vehicle at a motorway service has risen up to 28% more than filling an equivalent petrol car.
  • Time Consuming – Due to the rapid increase in popularity of EV’s, nowadays when you arrive at a charging station, waiting times can be quite long. Then, when a spot opens up, you’ll then have to wait to charge up your car which may vary each time.
  • Potential Battery Damage – Typically, charging stations are safe for use. However, consistently charging your vehicle with a Level 3 fast-charging station can cause your EV’s battery to degrade faster than usual.
  • Electric Shocks – EV stations use very high voltages to charge the vehicle’s battery. This leaves EV users vulnerable to electric shock when charging their battery. 

Conclusion

In closing, EV stations at home can be significantly cheaper than petrol stations. However, charging your EV outside of the comfort of your home, can be up to 28% more expensive than fueling a gas car. Although, there is the potential to decrease this percentage if there were more stations across the UK, which is expected to happen by 2030 with the upcoming petrol and diesel ban. Meaning that the possibility of the price decreasing would be more likely, as EV stations will be made more readily available. 

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