The EV Project is an effort commissioned by the U.S. Department of Energy, which brought in car-makers, utilities, retailers, government entities and technology providers to help identify current and potential barriers to EV adoption.
It began in 2010 and is tracking what happens with about 4,600 vehicles and 6,200 charging stations.
So far, the team has come up with preliminary conclusions:
- The current EV driving distance is modest.
- There’s range anxiety, but not the sort most expected
- Recharge times are fairly short.
- Price signals work.
- Topping off is habitual, but maybe not necessary.
- Installation costs must fall.
- It’s too early to judge true demand.