Despite the global push towards electric vehicles (EVs), a surprising number of drivers in India and worldwide are reversing their journey towards greener alternatives and reverting to traditional petrol and diesel cars. This shift has raised questions about the future of electric mobility and what it means for the automotive industry.
A recent survey by mobility app Park+ revealed a startling statistic: 51% of Indian EV owners expressed a desire to return to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This figure is particularly striking given India’s aggressive push for electrification through initiatives like the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) and EMPS (Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme).
This trend isn’t confined to India. Internationally, a similar sentiment is emerging. A survey found that 29% of global EV owners are contemplating a switch back to petrol or diesel cars. In the United States, the number is even higher, with 46% of EV owners indicating a strong likelihood of buying a gas-powered vehicle next time, according to McKinsey & Co.
Despite significant advancements in EV technology, many drivers still face challenges that deter them from fully embracing electric mobility. One of the most significant issues is the inadequacy of charging infrastructure. Urban areas in developed countries might have a fair number of charging stations, but the time required to charge and the unreliability of some stations remain significant hurdles.
For example, a Reddit user shared their frustration about the lack of charging stations during a trip to Big Bear, where only two DC chargers were available, one of which was out of order. Such experiences are not uncommon, with many EV owners expressing similar dissatisfaction with the charging infrastructure’s reliability and availability.
In India, the situation is even more challenging. The country’s charging infrastructure is still developing, leading to long queues at charging stations and inconsistent availability. This scenario is a significant deterrent for the average Indian EV consumer, who values long-distance travel and needs reliable refueling options.
The initial cost of EVs remains higher than that of their ICE counterparts, despite decreasing battery prices. In price-sensitive markets like India, this cost difference is substantial. Additionally, concerns about battery life and replacement costs add to consumer apprehension.
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“While consumers have many concerns surrounding an EV’s battery range, price remains the higher priority when purchasing an EV,” reported Julia Martinez, a US energy and auto expert.
Moreover, while EVs are often promoted for their lower maintenance costs, the reality can be different. Specialised service centres, availability of parts, and skilled technicians are not as widespread for EVs as they are for ICE vehicles. This disparity in service infrastructure makes EV ownership less appealing to some consumers, both in India and globally.
This consumer shift has prompted automakers to reevaluate their EV strategies. Ford and General Motors have recently announced a downscaling of their EV production plans due to slower-than-expected market uptake. Even Tesla, the company that arguably made EVs “cool,” is struggling to attract new buyers.
Studies have shown that consumers are increasingly favoring EVs built by traditional automakers over Tesla models. These developments suggest a broader hesitancy and a rebalancing towards consumer choice, including the retention of ICE options.
