We’re at a pivotal point in decarbonising the grid, which is necessary to reduce the harmful impact of climate change.
That harm is readily seen in recent local weather, and many flooding issues. Sadly too many in all parties are trying to convince themselves climate change isn’t real. They’re wrong - and their views are seen as outdated, and they’re headed for extinction. Today’s young voters understand the realities and the need for change, and for a move away from fossil fuel use. Conservatives need to be visionary, inspirational - not fossils.
A shift in transport is one that will underpin this change. We all have a part to play - and as a party we should set the scene, and truly facilitate and drive change. We need to dispel the misinformation and scepticism that has clouded rational judgement.
For years, we’ve spoken of electric vehicles (EVs) as a glimpse into the future. But let me be clear: electric vehicles are not just the future—they are the present, and are a fundamental part of a needed shift in personal transportation
Some still say that electric vehicles are a distant dream, that they’re too expensive, unreliable, or impractical. Some say they’re not going to help and they cite all sorts of false facts based on misinformation and myths. Those claims are simply not true.
EVs once carried a hefty price tag, but that’s no longer the case. The average cost of electric vehicles has steadily declined, with more affordable models available than ever before - both new and used. Their running costs are lower: EVs can save you money through lower energy and maintenance costs.
Some argue that EVs can’t match the reliability of petrol or diesel-powered vehicles, especially in extreme weather conditions. However, today’s EVs are built to perform in diverse environments and the true facts disprove the misinformation. The latest batteries are rigorously tested for durability and safety, and the simplified electric drivetrains mean fewer parts that can wear out or fail - whilst the technology is improving even further. Advancements in battery technology have led to ranges that easily cover the needs of most drivers.
Third, practicality. Critics claim that EVs are impractical for long trips due to a lack of charging infrastructure. But the reality is far different. The UK network of charging stations is expanding rapidly, with commercial investment of billions: there are ultra rapid chargers being deployed along main routes, in desirable locations.
Let’s talk about impact. There’s a misconception that EVs aren’t truly green because of the electricity they consume and the resources used in their production. Even when accounting for all factors, EVs still produce significantly fewer emissions than traditional vehicles over their lifetime - with a net benefit within around 3 years.
Finally, some say there’s not enough power - which the power companies confirm is false. In fact EVs are part of the energy security solution, as they can act as a temporary storage solution for solar, wind and other renewable power.
Electric vehicles are here, they’re viable, and they’re making a difference today. They’re nicer to drive. Hydrogen is a non-starter for personal transport - from a price viewpoint, and from the fact that you need three times as much electricity to travel 1 mile if using it to create hydrogen and then converting it to electricity, compared to storing it in a battery and then using it directly.
It’s time to dispel the myths, embrace the truth, and drive forward together (bearing in mind EVs are actually nicer to drive too!) into this new era. The future isn’t waiting for us. It’s here, now. Let’s have policies that push this forward faster.
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Views expressed in this blog are those of the author, not necessarily those of the Conservative Environment Network. If you are a CEN supporter, councillor, or parliamentarian and would like to write for the CEN blog, please email your idea to info@cen.uk.com
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