300 miles is the absolute generous “tops” figure banded about by the “greenies” at Tesla – most other electric cars are well below that. It’s achievable assuming the wind is in the right direction, that the ambient temperature is neither too hot or too cold AND that the owner operates nice even charge-use-charge cycles so that the batteries do not self-destruct – as many Teslas have done in the past – hence they had to tweak their warranty in 2013.
Spot on. Although I don't think anyone was claiming current EVs could realistically get 300miles? I think the debate was whether in the future, EVs that could do 300miles realistically would be sufficient?
And agree, the battery condition is a major worry, and something that will massively influence my decision to buy one.
However...I pose this question...how is the current situation any better or different? In terms of diesels (blimey I've managed to get back OT!) you have to drive them at high speeds, at high RPM to allow the DPF to regen. Even then, they still have a finite life and will eventually get clogged up leading to a relatively costly replacement? Have I understood this right?
One thing is for sure, no manufacturer will offer you a 8yr/unlimited warranty on a DPF....and no manufacturer will treat a customer quite as well as Tesla have done for this chap (yes yes, its just one case...).
http://insideevs.com/tesla-model-s-battery-failure-free-replacement-battery-video/
I think you are suggesting that I think EVs are perfect...they aren't, I completely agree with all your points, but the vast majority of the ones you raise are shared by any car today, so thats not anything new to experience of car ownership.
I haven't bought one because most of them are about as exciting as a puddle to drive, look hideous and cost too much. Only one I would consider owning is a Model S, but that costs upwards of £60k! I also cant charge one at home and they are a PITA if you do long distance journeys like JDP. They still have many advantages though, and I can easily see them being a good choice for many motorists in the next 10yrs as the technology improves along with the infrastructure. I also think that today, many city dwellers and short commuters would massively benefit from them over a diesel or even petrol, but would only advise this personally with a good lease deal. Depreciation is eye watering and would completely negate any savings in running costs.