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Wired for Change: Turbocharging the Shift to Electric Vehicles

Neo Verma
31 Dec 2023

In our cities and, on the stretches of rural roads a quiet revolution is taking place; the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). Once considered a niche market for individuals, EVs are now becoming increasingly mainstream. They offer a greener, cleaner and more sustainable mode of transportation. This article explores the aspects of the transition to vehicles including technological advancements, market trends, policy interventions and environmental impacts that are driving this wave of change. 

In order to understand this rearrangement, we have to take a look at the interior of the technology. At the core of the EV revolution lies a series of groundbreaking advancements in battery technology. Lithium ion batteries have become more affordable, efficient and compact which in turn significantly increases the range and performance of EVs in the present day. Performing better than ever before, the development of charging infrastructure has also played a role in addressing past concerns about driving range. With an increasing number of charging stations along with new and innovative technology, so-called “range anxiety” is being alleviated and making EVs more practical for everyday consumers.

As a result of falling costs as well as increased consumer awareness, the market for electric vehicles is growing at a pace faster than ever before. In 2021, EV sales doubled as compared to the year before. Manufacturers across the globe have been introducing different models to cater to different segments of the market, and prices range from roughly $27,000 (Niebuhr and Tokeshi) to $4 million (Moore). 

Additionally, governments around the world are actively promoting and encouraging the shift towards electric vehicles with policies in place to assist. Certain measures like tax rebates, grants, and subsidies are among the policies that are being implemented to make EVs more affordable and desirable for consumers. For example, in the United States, citizens may qualify for up to $7500 in tax credit upon purchase of an electric vehicle (“Credits for new clean vehicles purchased in 2023 or after | Internal Revenue Service”). In certain countries, they are forcing the shift to green. In the UK, they have committed to having 100% of cars and vans to be producing zero emissions by 2035 (“Government sets out path to zero emission vehicles by 2035”). Although a lofty goal, this could potentially greatly influence the economy with new jobs being created and government investments of over 2 billion pounds to support the transition. As a result of these different developments occurring around the world, we are creating an environment that supports the growth of the economy as well as improving our environment. 

This transition is not just about converting the way we drive, but it’s also about changing our environmental impact. One of the primary features that make EVs so attractive is that it offers the promise of significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution, and more. Cities and countries stand to benefit from the cleaner air as well as the quieter streets which in turn can contribute to superior public health and quality of life. 

Although challenges may be faced in this transition, the change to electric vehicles represents one of the most significant shifts in transportation that this world has seen in a while. This new era sees new and collective efforts around the globe with regards to technology, policy, and market transformation. A fully electric and green world is on the horizon, and positive changes to our environment will be reflected.

Works Cited

“Credits for new clean vehicles purchased in 2023 or after | Internal Revenue Service.” IRS, 28 November 2023, https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/credits-for-new-clean-vehicles-purchased-in-2023 -or-after.

“Electric car sales double worldwide in 2021.” Faist Group, 21 June 2022, https://www.faistgroup.com/news/electric-car-sales-2021/.

“Government sets out path to zero emission vehicles by 2035.” GOV.UK, 28 September 2023, https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-sets-out-path-to-zero-emission-vehicl es-by-2035.

Moore, Alina. “15 Most Expensive Electric Cars In The World.” Top Speed, 16 September 2023, https://www.topspeed.com/most-expensive-electric-cars-in-the-world/#aspark-owl.

Niebuhr, Kurt, and Rex Tokeshi. “2023 Chevy Bolt EV Prices, Reviews, and Pictures.” Edmunds, https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/bolt-ev/.Roberts, David. “Ignore the haters: electric cars really are greener.” Vox, 16 November 2015, https://www.vox.com/2015/11/16/9737720/electric-vehicles-cleaner.