What is EV charging anxiety/range anxiety?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity across the globe, largely because they’re seen as being instrumental in helping to reduce global carbon emissions and reach net zero.

There are still many uncertainties and even misconceptions about electric vehicles and their capabilities; two of the most common concerns being what’s known as ‘range anxiety’ and, more recently, ‘charge anxiety’.

What is range anxiety?

Range anxiety is the driver's fear that a vehicle has insufficient energy storage to cover the road distance needed to reach its intended destination, and would thus strand the vehicle's occupants mid-way. The term, which is now primarily used in reference to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), is considered to be one of the major psychological barriers to large-scale public adoption of electric cars.

What is charge anxiety?

Charge anxiety is the negative feeling of uncertainty whether you will be able to charge at a charge station. This may be for several reasons, such as waiting lines during peak hours or unreliable hardware.

Is range anxiety a thing of the past?

Some people do still experience range anxiety, particularly in areas where the number of EVs on the road is growing rapidly, while public charging infrastructure might lag behind or is concentrated in areas such as cities or along motorways.

As of mid-2022, it’s estimated there are 460,000 battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) on the road in the UK,1 and an estimated 31,000 public charging points, many of which are concentrated in larger towns and cities, and not spread evenly in more rural locations.

So, for EV owners living there, range anxiety can still be a real thing.

However, it’s important to remember that nearly 99% of all driven journeys are under 100 miles, with every EV on the market capable of handling this distance on a limited charge.

What is being done to solve charge anxiety?

The UK government’s £950 million rapid charging fund will help motorways and major A road service area operators prepare the network for 100% zero emissions vehicles. This includes plans to ensure at least six rapid charge points at every motorway service station in England by 2023.

Ways YOU can overcome charge anxiety:

Look at EV Charging Point Maps
Charge when stopped, not stop to charge
Report if a charger isn't working

We provide installation, testing and maintenance of all EV Charging Point types throughout the UK, if you'd like support with your EV Charging Points or station, please don't hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team, you can contact us here: 01604 696113 - enquiries@protestesltd.co.uk.