Analysis Shows Tesla Leads the Pack as the Most Frequently Driven Electric Vehicle (EV)
Analyzing EV Mileage and Range in Comparison to Gasoline Models
A recent iSeeCars study examined over 860,000 cars from the 2020 model year to investigate the driving patterns of battery-electric vehicles (EVs) and their comparison to gasoline-powered models. The study unveils interesting insights into the mileage of electric vehicles, with Tesla emerging as the most frequently driven EV. However, despite this achievement, EVs still fall short of the average mileage covered by gas-powered vehicles.
EV Range and Driving Distance
The study establishes a logical correlation between an electric vehicle's range and its driving distance. It reveals that for every additional mile of range an EV offers, owners tend to drive an extra 23 miles per year. This highlights the need for EVs to achieve greater ranges to match the usage levels of gas-powered vehicles.
The Disparity in Cost and Usage
According to iSeeCars Executive Analyst Karl Brauer, electric vehicles still face significant disadvantages in terms of cost and usage. The study shows that EVs cost, on average, 45% more than gasoline models, while being driven 29% less. This cost disparity poses a challenge to wider EV adoption.
Mileage Comparisons
The study's findings indicate that, on average, a 3-year-old EV covers 9,059 miles per year, whereas a 3-year-old gas-powered car travels 12,758 miles annually. This substantial difference in mileage suggests that range anxiety and the challenges associated with charging infrastructure restrict the widespread use of EVs.
The Need for Expanded Range and Accessibility
While current electric vehicle ranges can satisfy the majority of consumer needs, the study emphasizes that overcoming range anxiety and enhancing charging infrastructure are crucial steps toward broader EV adoption. To achieve a usage level on par with gas-powered vehicles, EVs would require an additional 161 miles of range, averaging around 440 miles per charge.
While Tesla leads the pack as the most-driven electric vehicle, the study highlights the existing disparities between EVs and gas-powered cars in terms of cost, mileage, and usage. To bridge the gap, it is essential to advance EV technology, expand ranges, and address the challenges surrounding charging infrastructure. Only then can electric vehicles truly compete with their gasoline counterparts and contribute to a sustainable future of transportation.