Common challenges with electric vehicles and how to overcome them

Electric vehicle technology is constantly evolving and although the UK isn’t yet ready for everybody to drive an electric vehicle, change towards this is happening fast.

The 2030 deadline to stop the production of new petrol and diesel vehicle is fast approaching, which means there will be a push to get the UK’s charging infrastructure ready, as well as electric vehicle supply from manufacturers.

Our team of EV experts have picked out some of the most common concerns with electric vehicles right now and explained why you needn’t panic, so long as you prepare properly.

Common challenges faced by Electric Vehicles

Service, Maintenance and Repair

This is a concern for electric vehicle owners, as there is a shortage in skilled technicians who can effectively work on the growing number of EVs on UK roads.

Going forwards, garage networks will need to upskill their staff to ensure they can deal with an increase in electric vehicles. This will need to happen quickly, as more and more individuals and businesses switch to electric vehicles.

Rivus has invested in its UK-wide garage network and has committed to train all technicians on servicing, maintaining and repairing electric vehicles, as well as existing petrol and diesel models. This means we are prepared for the future and ready to deal with the ever-changing technology surrounding EVs.

Idling concerns

Idling is a concern for some electric vehicle users but concerns can be put to rest by understanding your vehicle better and changing your mindset.

Idling in an EV happens when a driver leaves their vehicle in neutral when parked, rather than selecting the ‘Park’ mode on the automatic gear selector. This is particularly prominent in drivers who are used to operating manual vehicles.

Essentially, idling means the drivetrain and all connected systems are still live and ready to move. Electrical energy is consequently used and lost to keep these systems energised.

Using an estimate of 17p per kWh, we estimate that over the six months of usage, idling will cost a small fleet of six approximately £85. This may not seem significant, but this works out at £28 per vehicle per year, which soon adds up across a larger fleet, or when the fleet is fully electric.

To prevent energy loss and protect your pockets, always select ‘Park’ on your geal selector and prevent your vehicle from idling.

The effects of the weather

There are concerns about how electric vehicles perform in winter, as colder conditions can lead to a slow-down in battery performance.

When your electric vehicle is sat in colder conditions, the chemicals within the battery that power the electric current slows down, impacting performance. Also, because you will be driving in colder conditions, you will likely want to keep comfortable by using the heating controls. This will take power away from your battery and reduce your overall range.

Although you may get less out of a charge during colder seasons, this doesn’t mean you still won’t be able to drive your vehicle- you’ll just need to take some time to consider some pre-conditioning of your vehicle ahead of longer trips. Rivus’ team will be able to advise you on how to activate energy-saving modes and think more economically about your EV, so you can drive with peace of mind all year round. For more winter weather charging tips, click here.

EV charging infrastructure

The UK Government is investing in public EV charging points across the UK, but the rollout hasn’t reached everybody just yet.

Although new-build homes will be required to have standard electric charging points installed, this doesn’t address other homemakers without a charging point at their home. Therefore, greater investment needs to be made so a better spread of people can access charging points close to their home.

Resources such as Zap-Map can help you find electric charging points near you, so you can discover how easy it is to charge up away from home. This will also help you plan journeys and understand if your local charging point is suitable for your vehicle – more universal points should be installed in the future.

Rivus Fleet Solutions can help you discover which electric fleet is most suited to your company, based on vehicle range and available infrastructure to your workplace and local area.

Take control of your electric vehicle fleet

Rivus is leading the way when it comes to electric vehicles, and our team can help you find and maintain your next electric fleet.

Speak to our team today and find out how to switch over to an electric fleet.