THE SEVEN MOST COMMON MYTHS ABOUT ELECTRIC CARS - AN EXPERT CLARIFIES WHAT YOU CAN AND CAN’T DO WITH YOUR EV

ALMOST one in six people think you can’t drive an electric vehicle through water – and that’s just one of several common ‘EV myths’ uncovered through new research conducted by electric vehicle manufactures BYD UK.

When BYD surveyed 2,000 people via OnePoll to identify the most common misconceptions about electric vehicles and EV ownership, it discovered that one of the most widely believed myths is that you must avoid all puddles and standing water when driving – a misconception held by 14 per cent of respondents.

“Modern EVs are built to rigorous safety standards, with waterproofed components that allow them to drive through water just as safely as petrol or diesel cars,” explains Steve Beattie, sales and marketing director at BYD UK.

“Whether it’s rain or puddles, EVs are thoroughly tested for water resistance - so drivers don’t need to worry.”

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Our research shows that while electric vehicles are changing the way we drive, there are still a lot of misconceptions out there

Steve Beattie, BYD UK

SIX MORE COMMON MYTHS ABOUT EVs

Read on to discover the other most commonly held misconceptions about electric vehicles – and what the truth of the matter actually is…

MYTH 1: Electric vehicles can have manual transmissions

REALITY: “EVs are automatic by design, thanks to their consistent power delivery, which removes the need for a clutch or gearbox,” clarifies Steve.

“They’re built for simplicity and efficiency, making them easier and smoother to drive.”

MYTH 2: Electric vehicle wall chargers must be left behind when moving house

REALITY: “While EV chargers are fixed to homes, they can be professionally uninstalled and reinstalled at a new address,” explains Steve.

“Many people don’t realise this, but with professional help, moving a charger is straightforward. It’s worth considering the cost, though, as installation is often included with new chargers.”

MYTH 3: Electric vehicles won’t last as long as traditional internal combustion engine-powered cars

REALITY: “EVs typically have fewer moving parts, which reduces wear and tear over time,” Steve explains.

“Long warranties, like BYD’s eight-year/125,000 mile battery guarantee, highlight their durability, and reflect manufacturers’ confidence in their longevity.”

MYTH 4: Electric vehicles can charge themselves

REALITY: Steve clarifies: “This could be due to confusion around regenerative braking. Regenerative braking does recover energy during deceleration, but it doesn’t fully charge the battery.

“It’s an efficient way to extend range and improve performance, but EVs still need to be plugged in for a complete charge.”

MYTH 5: Electric vehicles cannot be towed

REALITY: “EVs can be safely towed, as long as the correct method is used.

“Flatbed tow trucks are the safest option for any vehicle, including EVs. Dolly towing is also possible for some EVs if they can be placed in neutral gear.

“It’s just about using the right approach.”

MYTH 6: You cannot put electric vehicles through a car wash

REALITY: “This misconception comes from concerns about water and electricity, but EVs are built to meet stringent safety standards.

“Rain, puddles and car washes are perfectly safe for electric cars.”

OLDER AND WISER

Surprisingly, BYD’s survey reveals that older people are the least likely to believe these myths: according to their research, 89 per cent of all over-55s rejected the aforementioned misconceptions.

By contrast, younger people are more likely to believe these common EV myths. Only 17 per cent of 18-to-24 year-olds rejected all misconceptions, followed closely by 23 per cent of 25-to-34 year-olds.

CLEARED OF ALL CHARGES

“Our research shows that while electric vehicles are changing the way we drive, there are still a lot of misconceptions out there,” says Steve.

“Clearing up these myths is key to building trust and helping drivers feel confident about EV technology as we move towards a zero-emission future.

“At BYD, we’re focused on helping drivers understand the realities of electric vehicles and making sustainable transport more accessible to everyone. By tackling these myths head-on, we hope to encourage more people to see the benefits of EVs and make the switch.”

For more information about EVs, visit byd.com

2025-03-04T06:03:08Z