Top 5 EV Myths Debunked
In recognition of National Drive Electric Month, we’re separating fact from fiction and answering some of the most common questions about driving electric. Whether you’re considering an EV or simply curious about the technology, read on as we plug into the facts and debunk some common EV myths.
Myth #1: EVs cost more than gas-powered cars.
Fact: EVs can cost less over the lifetime of the vehicle.
While new EVs can cost about $3,500 more upfront and used EVs about $1,300 more, drivers who charge at home can save up to $6,000 over five years through lower fueling and maintenance costs.
EVs can save money because:
- Charging at home during off-peak hours can cost the equivalent of less than $2 per gallon of gasoline.
- EVs have fewer moving parts and don’t need oil changes.
- Regenerative braking can help reduce brake wear.
Incentives can also help lower the upfront cost. San José Clean Energy’s EV Instant Rebates program offers income-eligible customers up to $3,000 off a new EV or $1,750 off a used EV when buying or leasing a qualifying electric vehicle.* Combined with California’s MyFirstEV program, eligible customers could save up to $6,500 on a new EV or $3,500 on a used EV.
More affordable options are becoming available, too, with several new EVs priced under $35,000.
*As of September 15, 2026, SJCE’s EV Instant Rebates Program reduced the incentive amounts
Myth #2: EVs don’t have enough range.
Fact: Today’s EVs can easily handle everyday driving—and road trips, too.
The average San José resident drives about 32 miles a day, while modern EVs can travel around 300 miles on a charge. For most drivers, that means you can go several days between charges.
And when it’s time for a road trip? One charge can get you all the way to Disneyland from San José.
Keep in mind: Highway driving with the heat or air conditioning on can reduce your range. A good rule of thumb is to expect about 75% of the published range in these conditions.
Myth #3: Charging an EV takes too long.
Fact: For most drivers, charging can be as easy as plugging in overnight or making a quick stop at a fast charger.
If you charge at home, your EV can be ready to go by morning; no trip to the gas station needed. Alternatively, public fast chargers can charge your EV from 10%-80% in as little as 15-20 minutes, adding 200+ miles of range.
Tip: Charging from 80%-100% at a fast charger can take longer than charging from 10%-80%.
Myth #4: EVs are worse for the climate because of their batteries.
Fact: EVs have a lower lifetime carbon footprint (83%!) than gas-powered vehicles.
It’s true that manufacturing an EV produces more emissions than producing a gas-powered vehicle. But when you look at the vehicle’s entire lifecycle, including manufacturing, battery production, gas and electricity production, and fuel consumption, EVs still produce significantly less carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) than gasoline-powered vehicles.
When powered through San José Clean Energy, an EV produces 83% less lifetime CO₂e than a comparable gasoline-powered vehicle. Even when charged with electricity generated from 90% coal, EVs still produce 25% less lifetime CO₂e.*
*Emission reduction potentials are calculated using the International Energy Agency’s EV Life Cycle Assessment Calculator
Myth #5: EV batteries don’t last and are expensive to replace.
Fact: EV batteries are built to last for years—and battery replacements are rare.
An analysis found that modern batteries retain roughly 95% of their original range after five years. Battery failures are also rare. Just 0.3% of EVs built since 2022 have needed a battery replacement.*
Most automakers offer battery warranties covering at least eight years and over 100,000 miles. When an EV battery is no longer suitable for vehicle use, it can be repurposed for stationary energy storage, such as storing renewable energy for the grid. Once the battery reaches the end of its useful life, its materials can be recovered and recycled to make new batteries and other products.
*EV Battery lifecycle claims are based on research conducted by Kelley Blue Book
With multiple EV incentives available to help lower the upfront cost, it’s a great time to make the switch to electric. From everyday savings and convenient charging to long-term environmental benefits, EVs offer a range of advantages for drivers. And with 36% of new car sales in Santa Clara County being electric in 2026, it’s no surprise the Bay Area continues to lead the nation in EV adoption.
