The rise of electric vehicles

Editorial Board

On Aug. 25, California set to end the sales of gasoline-powered cars by requiring all new vehicles sold in the state by 2035 to be either electric or plug-in electric hybrids. While California is moving faster than anyone when it comes to raising the standards for electric vehicles, many other states have adopted California’s zero-emissions requirements. This raises many questions.

Why do we need electric vehicles?

It is all part of an ambitious, yet necessary, plan to fight climate change by pushing for a zero-emission future. Electric vehicles promote a cleaner environment, which is the main selling point for these vehicles. Not only that, electric vehicles also save a large sum of money because the driver is not having to constantly stop for gas. 

Why do people disagree with the surge of electric vehicles?

While it is true that electric vehicles are on the come up, there is still a large number of people who refuse to participate in the movement. The purpose behind electric vehicles seems like a sustainable solution in the long run, but the execution is harder than it seems. Electric cars only made up 3% of the total car sales last year. Car companies are hoping to release more affordable electric vehicle options within the next few years, but for that to happen electric cars will have to make batteries cost-effective.

Another factor that stops people from purchasing an electric car is the fact that they do not travel as far as gas-powered cars. People fear they will not make it to their destination before running out of battery, so they opt for gas-powered cars because they are more reliable as vehicles.

What should Texas do?

Unfortunately, Texas is one of the states that struggle with accepting the idea of electric vehicles. Why is this unfortunate? Because while California is pushing for zero emissions and promoting a cleaner environment, Texas is still being polluted. While it seems absurd to purchase an electric car when you could purchase a cheaper gas-powered one, it all makes sense when you look at the bigger picture. 

Owning an electric car means less maintenance work, fewer gas fees and less pollution. So, not only will you be saving money for the future, you will also save the planet. Electric vehicles are on the rise and the world is better off because of it.