Range anxiety is a common fear among potential electric vehicle (EV) buyers that the battery will run out of charge before reaching a suitable charging station. This concern arises from several factors, such as:

Limited driving range
Some EV models have a shorter driving range than their gasoline-powered peers, which can cause anxiety among people who are considering buying an EV.

Insufficient charging infrastructure
The availability and location of charging stations, particularly in rural areas or on long trips, can directly impact range anxiety.

Charging time misconceptions
Many people overestimate how long it takes to charge an EV because they are not familiar with the various charging options available to them. This can lead to unnecessary worry and anxiety about running out of charge.

Government and Private Sector Initiatives
Efforts from both the government and private companies are working to improve the charging infrastructure in Canada. The Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative is a national effort that funds projects to make more charging stations available across Canada.

Improving Accessibility
To ease range anxiety, it’s essential to ensure that charging stations are easy to locate and access. One way to achieve this is by creating user-friendly charging apps, adding charging stations to popular guidance systems, and installing more signs that make it easier to find charging stations while on the go. By improving accessibility to charging stations, people can feel more confident that they can find a charging station when they need one.

Increased Driving Range
Advancements in battery technology have significantly increased the driving range of electric vehicles. Newer models have much longer ranges, which makes them more competitive with standard gasoline-powered cars and reduces concerns about range anxiety.

Faster Charging Options
Fast-charging technology has made it possible for EV drivers to charge their cars faster than before. Level 3 (DC fast) charging stations are becoming more common, allowing drivers to charge their EVs up to 80% in just 30 minutes. This makes long-distance travel easier and more comfortable.

Setting the record straight
Education and awareness can play a significant role in addressing range anxiety. Dispelling myths about EVs, providing factual and detailed information about driving range and charging time, and availability of charging infrastructure. This information can be provided through various channels, such as brochures, websites, and social media.

Providing opportunities for hands-on experiences
Offering test drives and providing opportunities for potential buyers to experience electric vehicles firsthand can help alleviate range anxiety and increase confidence in EVs. By showcasing the convenience and benefits of electric cars, people can become more aware and interested in making the switch to electric

Electric vehicles have a vital role to play in achieving Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan. However, people’s fear of running out of charge needs to be addressed. The good news is that there are ways to alleviate range anxiety, including building more charging stations, developing battery technology, and educating the public. By taking these steps, Canada can lead the way in creating a more sustainable and electric-powered future, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

1. Natural Resources Canada (2020). Electric Charging and Alternative Fuelling Stations Locator. Retrieved from https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-transportation/zero-emission-vehicle-infrastructure-programs/electric-charging-and-alternative-fuelling-stations-locator/19982
2. Government of Canada (2019). Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative. Retrieved from https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-transportation/zero-emission-vehicle-infrastructure-programs/electric-vehicle-and-alternative-fuel-infrastructure-deployment-initiative/18352
3. Union of Concerned Scientists (2019). Electric Vehicle Range: How Far Can You Drive on a Charge? Retrieved from https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/how-far-can-you-drive-ev-charge