Electric car popularity continues to rise
More and more drivers are investing in electric cars, rather than petrol-fuelled alternatives
Electric car sales have more than doubled globally, with sales rising to 3 million in 2020 and representing 4.1% of total car sales
China has seen major growth; with sales nearly tripling to 3.4 million ; leading the global markets.
There has been some growth in other countries, though not at the same exponential scale. In the US, electric car sales comprised a meager 0.2% of the total in 2011, but have since increased to 4.6% in 2021
The market has responded accordingly, with the production and different model types growing in number. In the space of a year, 370 models were available worldwide in 2020, a 40% increase from 2019; a number which continues to reach new heights.
There are numerous reasons which are attributed to this increase. Electric vehicles are famed for their zero tailpipe emissions, eliminating any contribution to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions . Moreover, the lower maintenance costs compared to traditional gas-powered cars alongside a smoother ride and absence of noise pollution incentivize many new purchasers.
Governments continue to encourage the switch to electric cars with the implementation of tax incentives and rebates. The long-term result is that switching to electric becomes more affordable than traditional gas-powered cars .
In the wake of environmental concerns which have reached catastrophic heights, the decision to purchase electric is one example of combatting this global issue.