Gas-powered vehicles are a major source of air pollution and greenhouse gases that drive climate change. Switching to electric vehicles is critical to cutting down on tail-pipe emissions. Burning gasoline and diesel fuel contributes particulate matter, smog-forming nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, as well as carbon dioxide, into the air. These pollutants can cause asthma flare-ups, lung cancer, heart and lung damage and even premature death. In fact, research shows that if all new cars and trucks transition to zero-emission vehicles, it would prevent 2.79 million pediatric asthma attacks and save hundreds of infant lives by 2050.
"Zero-emission"
Unfortunately, misunderstandings about the benefits of electric vehicles still prevent many people from making the switch or supporting the transition to zero-emission transportation more broadly. So, we are setting the record straight and debunking some the most common electric vehicles myths. Read the facts below.
MYTH: Electric vehicles are too expensive.
FACT: Zero-emission vehicles are increasingly affordable, and EV maintenance is easier and less expensive than maintenance for gas-powered vehicles.
When considering an electric vehicle, many people are put off by the price. But research shows that if you consider the full life of the vehicle, owning an electric car can save $12,000 or more compared to a gas car, due to lower fuel and maintenance costs (think oil changes and other engine-related costs). Additionally, new EVs may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 as well as additional state tax credits or local utility incentives, depending on where you live. You can learn more about whether you are eligible for tax credits on this website.
What many people don’t factor in is that electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas-powered counterparts. This means fewer opportunities for things to break down and need repair. A 2020 study found that EV drivers pay about half of what drivers of gas-powered vehicles pay for maintenance and repairs.
MYTH: Electric vehicles can’t be used in the cold.
FACT: EVs are a great choice no matter the weather.
Electric vehicles are a great choice for any weather. Driving in the cold uses more energy to power a vehicle and warm the inside of the car, but this is true for both gasoline-powered and electric vehicles. However, just like gasoline-powered cars, this doesn’t mean you can’t use electric vehicles in these weather conditions. No matter what car you use, you should plan ahead if you know the temperature is going to drop.
MYTH: Electric vehicles can’t travel far on a single charge.
FACT: EV range is more than enough for typical daily use.
One of the most common misconceptions about electric vehicles is that they can only travel short distances. But most electric vehicles can travel over 200 miles on a full charge. Most Americans travel 50 miles or less per day, meaning that all electric vehicles can cover daily needs without needing to recharge. Automakers have also announced plans to release even more long-range models in the coming years.
MYTH: Electric vehicle batteries are unsustainable and unreliable.
FACT: Zero-emission vehicles are better for the environment.
Some people believe that between battery production, disposal and use, electric vehicles aren’t actually much better for the environment. But extensive research shows that electric vehicles produce zero direct emissions. This includes generating less than half of the greenhouse gas emissions and emitting less CO2 per mile than comparable gasoline-powered vehicles. Additionally, the market for the direct reuse of batteries is rapidly growing, and batteries can – and should - also be recycled for their raw materials to reduce the need for new material development.
MYTH: The electrical grid cannot handle the switch to electric vehicles.
FACT: EVs can actually support electric grid stability.
Instead of overstraining the electrical grid, electric vehicles have been found to support electric grid stability by acting as backup power storage on wheels. Additionally, EVs have vehicle-to-grid or vehicle-to-home capabilities, so they can also store energy for later use, and even can send power back when energy is in high demand. Another great feature is that whenever electric vehicles are not being used, they can be charged, so you can plan for times when energy is abundant and cheaper. Recent research also points to overall cost benefits as more electric vehicles connect to the grid.
MYTH: Charging an electric vehicle is a hassle.
FACT: Charging doesn’t need to be stressful.
As electric vehicles become more common, the number of charging stations continues to grow. Currently there are over 49,000 charging stations nationwide. These public charging stations can offer a more rapid charge, cutting down charging time. But most people find that they can meet their needs by charging their electric vehicles at home with a standard outlet (120 Volts). For those who live in apartments or condominiums, EV charging stations are becoming a more common building amenity as awareness for this charging need continues to grow. Access to EV charging will increase significantly in the coming years as a result of new initiatives to build out a national network of electric vehicle chargers along highways, and in communities and neighborhoods.
Learn more about the American Lung Association’s work to promote the transition to zero-emission vehicles by visiting Lung.org/ev.
Blog last updated: March 5, 2025
