Fact: The typical electric car range is practical for most American households

Myth: Electric vehicles are impractical, and the average driver can’t rely on them.

Explanation: A full 69% of American drivers travel less than 60 miles on weekdays, which is well within the typical electric car range. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a car in a one vehicle household is driven roughly 30 miles per day; in two- and three-car households, the most-used car is driven approximately 43 miles per day.

The Union of Concerned Scientists and Consumers Union conducted a study in 2013 and factored access to charging, hauling needs, and passenger capacity — and found that 42% of American households could rely on an EV as their only vehicle. In the six years since, average EV ranges have expanded significantly, meaning even more households could rely dependably on a plug-in car. When you consider that an American household averages two cars, it’s clear that replacing one with an EV is more than practical.  

Further reading:

• Union of Concerned Scientists: “Infographic: Millions of Americans Could Use an Electric Vehicle“

This post is one in a series produced to combat the misinformation campaigns  attacking electric cars. To see all of the FACTS that combat the MYTHS perpetuated by the Koch network and Big Oil, check out EV Facts.

Feature image: Nissan Leaf fully charged by John Briggs