Electric Cars: Advantages and Disadvantages

This report and essay from Desklib discuss the advantages and disadvantages of electric cars. The report highlights the popularity of electric cars and their advantages and disadvantages, while the essay reflects on the learning experience of the 'Academic Study Skills' module. The report covers topics such as lower running costs, reduced air and noise pollution, easy driving, low maintenance, high quality performance, and reduced emissions. The disadvantages include range limitations, limited recharge points, and low options available for electric cars.

Academic Study Skills

Table of Contents
TASK 1: REPORT...........................................................................................................................3
Introduction............................................................................................................................3
Main Body..............................................................................................................................3
Conclusion..............................................................................................................................7
TASK 2: ESSAY.............................................................................................................................8
Self-reflection.........................................................................................................................8
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................10

TASK 1: REPORT
Introduction
Electric vehicles, which were originally introduced in the late 1800s, were more
comfortable and convenient to drive for consumers than gas-powered vehicles at the time. They
were swiftly superseded by new, higher-quality gas-powered automobiles that could travel
further between fill-ups (Küfeoğlu and Hong, 2020). As the consequences of hydrocarbons were
more widely acknowledged, the globe grew re-interested in electric vehicles. These are gaining
worldwide recognition. Many people prefer electric vehicles because they are more ecologically
responsible. These are much more fuel efficient, and when combined with cost related to energy,
it is because charging an electric vehicle is relatively less costly against filling diesel or other
vehicle for individuals' travel needs. This category of vehicles can be made more friendly to
environment with the help of utilising more renewable energy sources. Electrification of the
transportation industry contribute in greater energy efficiency as well as lower levels of pollution
locally.
The report highlights popularity of electric cars. It also highlights advantages addition to
disadvantages associated to electric cars.
Main Body
At the present time, electric cars have become popular. What are advantages and
disadvantages concerns with electric cars
An electric car, often known as a battery electric car termed as a vehicle which is
powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries. These are are quieter, emit no exhaust, and
have fewer overall pollutants than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. It is an onboard
rechargeable battery pack is plugged in as well as charged from grid, along with the electricity
stored aboard the vehicle serves as the vehicle's sole source of propulsion. The global market
share of electric vehicles has increased dramatically over the last decade, and the trend is
expected to continue. 2021 was a major changer in the history of electric vehicle sales, with 6.4
million electric vehicles predicted to be sold globally by the end of the year, driven by a
decarbonisation issue that most leading nations are now taking seriously (Liu, Zhang and Yang,
2018). These are considered to have a significant part in achieving the ambitious goal of zero
emissions by 2050, and the industry is definitely preparing for it.

The United Kingdom is already a leading player in the transition to electric vehicles.
Taking Charge is a strategy implemented by government of UK which sets out vision as well as
action plan for the installation of electric vehicle supercharger network with in UK, irrespective
of the phase-out dates (UK electric vehicle infrastructure strategy, 2022). With this, government
of UK intended that by 2030, new gasoline and diesel automobiles will no longer be sold. The
political system also intends that by 2035, all new automobiles and vans will be completely
emission-free at the exhaust. The Ten Point Plan if Prime Minister is all asset for accelerating
transformation to such kind of vehicles through ending sale of cars and vans that are petrol or
diesel based by 2030 that can further result in creating more than 40,000 extra jobs together with
transform national infrastructure for better support to the vehicle, backed with totality of £2.8
billion addition to support nearby 169,000 jobs.
Local authorities throughout the UK are being encouraged to reap the benefits of a £20
million funding injection to boost the amount of on-street electric vehicle charge points. In 2021,
a record of 190,000 pure electric automobiles is sold in the United Kingdom that mark around 76
percent growth over the number sold in 2020. The sales volume of electric cars are increasing
speedily, it is because of effect of rising customer demand, greater prevalence of electric
models as well as government support, battery-electric cars that are more than 470,000 numbers
and plug-in hybrids that are approximate of 385,000 numbers presently on roads of United
Kingdom (Sperling, 2018). It surpasses traditional automobiles in aspect to fuel efficiency,
carbon emissions along with maintenance, and home charging convenience, a smoother ride
addition to less engine noise.
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons. Some of the
motives are to alleviate old worries, while others are to appeal to a new type of customer. The
advantages related to electric vehicles are as follows:
Lower running costs: Operational costs associated to an electric vehicle are significantly
lesser against gasoline or diesel vehicle. It charges its batteries with electricity instead of fossil
fuels such as gasoline or diesel (Altun and Et. Al., 2019). These are more economical and
productive, when paired with power cost, charging it is less costly in comparison to fuelling a
gasoline or diesel vehicle for a single trip. Electric vehicles can be designed and produced more

environmentally friendly while using renewable energy sources. The cost of electricity can be
further decreased when charging is done at home utilising renewable energy sources that is solar
panels. As production volumes expands as well as battery technology improve, prices are likely
equalized with conventional automobiles.
Reduces air and noise pollution in urban cities: Due to having no engine beneath the
hood, electric cars run in wide-ranging muteness. The electric motor runs so discreetly and
gently that it's necessary to peep inside the instrument panel to see whether it's turned on (Kumar
and Prasad, 2018). As these vehicles are so quiet, manufacturers need to create artificial sounds
to keep them comfortable for pedestrians in urban cities. Electric vehicles not only reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, but also work to alleviate health issues. They employ regenerative
braking that recover energy which would otherwise be lost when braking. They are most
economical in urban city driving since more braking occurs in stop-and-go traffic.
Easy driving: This kind of car feature the stress-free driving technique in field of cars.
These are simple for driving because they merely have one speed and therefore do not
necessitate shifting between gears. It also implies that electric vehicles are not prone to stalling.
Regenerative braking is engineered for powerful as well as effective in the newest batch of
electric cars that a person only needs to engage the car's real brakes very seldom, if at all. This
essentially eradicates requirement for a clutch with the hope of avoiding this from happening
(Ghasri, Ardeshiri and Rashidi, 2019). As a solution, the vehicle can be driven with the help of
accelerator pedal, steering wheel addition to brake pedal. Given the increasing need for oil as
supplies run out, an electric automobile most probably becoming a standard mode of
transportation in the coming years. Nissan and Tesla, for example, provide fantastic electric
versions with a plethora of advantages for those who choose to invest. An individual can save a
considerable amount of money not just for himself but also for his or her family.
Low maintenance: It is seen that electric automobiles have electrically driven engines,
that contributes in eliminating requirement for lubrication, it is because everything linked to
combustion engine as well as a slew other looking after chores which come with any type of gas
engine. As a consequence, maintenance cost related to this vehicle has reduced. A person does
not need to take electric vehicles to the service station as frequently as they would with a regular
gasoline-powered vehicle. If EV owners keep their cars in good shape and drive safely, a routine

check-up is usually all they require in terms of maintenance. Repairing electric automobiles is
easier as well as less expensive as compared with regular vehicles.
High quality performance: Electric vehicles are considered as high-performance vehicles
with noiseless, smooth motors needing less upkeep in comparison to internal combustion
engines. Electric vehicles are considerably lighter, which improves performance (Adderly and
Et. Al., 2018). Electric automobiles are recognized for running smoothly and silently due to the
lack of an exhaust system. Traditional gas engines are substantially noisier than electric
crossover and SUV versions, resulting in less noise pollution as well as a more peaceful ride.
Electric vehicles also react considerably faster than mechanical engines, leading to increased
torque and manoeuvrability throughout driving. Furthermore, in stop-and-go city traffic, electric
automobiles are more efficient and require less energy.
Reduce Emissions: Another advantage of all-electric vehicles is that they emit fewer
pollutants and use less fuel. Electric cars do not produce exhaust emissions, which are a major
source of pollution around the world, because they rely on a rechargeable battery. Furthermore,
the rechargeable battery saves money on petrol, ensuring that all energy is sourced locally.
Improved battery technology in todays modern light-duty AEVs allows the people to travel 100
miles on a single charge while using only 25 to 40 kilowatt-hours (kWh). If electric automobile
travel three miles per kWh, an individual can travel around 43 miles for £1.00. In example, if gas
costs £2.50 per gallon, an average gasoline vehicle with a 22-mile-per-gallon fuel efficiency will
only be able to travel 10 miles for the same amount. With an electric vehicle, the distance
travelled for a £1.00 fuel expenditure is roughly four times as far.
Aside from the benefits, mentioned below are some disadvantages that prevent EVs from
taking over totally:
Range of an electric car relies on life of its battery: When it comes to purchasing an
electric vehicle, range is a crucial factor to consider. The number of miles an electric
vehicle travel on a single charge is determined by the battery size, weather, battery age and
driving behaviour of an individual (Lazaroiu, Roscia and Saatmandi, 2020). This is also true for
vehicles of diesel and gasoline cars, with the exception that their range is determined by the age
and performance of a combustion engine rather than a battery. When driving an electric vehicle,
it's important to bear in mind the number of charging stations accessible along the way,
especially if a person is going on an extended journey. A person needs to plan ahead for a petrol

station along the trip for both diesel and gasoline cars, but they're generally more easily
accessible along the way. They may use helpful map to see where and how much electric car
chargers are available to make their journeys go even more pleasantly.
Recharge points: The quantity of charging stations available to an user varies on the
location they are staying in as some areas have many of charging stations, while others may take
a little longer to find one that is acceptable. The infrastructure needed for electric vehicles is still
being built, which adds to drivers' range anxiety. If a person is going on a long drive, this is
especially a problem or rather, one that takes a little more forethought. Since 2000, the number
of petrol stations has been steadily declining, with 2013 is still the only year with a year-on-year
improvement, whilst the count of charging stations has been steadily increasing, rising from
nearby 19487 in October 2020 to approximate 25927 in October 2021 (Krawiec and Wierzbicki,
2018).
Low options available to select electric cars: The market for electric cars is growing,
although it is a long way from traditional automobiles. The number of diesel and petrol
automobiles accessible today, as well as the variety of models and amenities available, far
outnumber the number of electric cars available presently. This might be a disadvantage,
particularly for people looking for a car which fulfils particular criteria, including a family car.
Two-seater electric cars have more possibilities than larger automobiles that can accommodate a
family.
Conclusion
In accordance to presented information, it has been concluded that electronic cars are rapidly
getting more and more popular. Leaving aside the difficulties of range and recharging times,
there is no doubting that electric cars outperform their gasoline equivalents in terms of
performance. Range as well as recharge time problems can be resolved as technology advances.
It's important to keep in mind that the electronics sector creates new technology at a tremendous
rate. Advantages concerned with using electronic cars are lower running costs, reduces air and
noise pollution in urban cities, easy driving, low maintenance, high quality performance addition
to reduce emissions. On other hand, disadvantages associated to electronic cars entails range of
an electric car relies on life of its battery, limited recharge points and low options available to
choose electric cars.

TASK 2: ESSAY
Self-reflection
In the module, titled ‘Academic Study Skills’, I have gained huge insights that will help me
in my professional career. In order to reflect on my learning of the module, use of Gibbs
Reflective Model is effective as it gives structure to what I have learned from the experiences.
This approach is a useful tool for working through a challenging circumstance. This can be a
one-time occurrence or a condition that occurs repeatedly. The first stage of the model is
description, wherein a person gets chance for describing entire scenario in detailed manner. To
finish the offered module, I engaged in a number of actions aimed at extracting useful
information for my task. At initial times, I have classified topics for gathering of information and
expect to complete working before the deadline. However, I had not planned adequate time to
rewrite if something did go wrong. Another phase of the reflective model is feeling wherein
exploration of thoughts or feelings is possible which an individual had during the experience as
well as the ways these impacts the experience or learning. In my case, in start of module, I was
quite happy addition to thought that I am smart when I bifurcated whole project into topics.
However, I became furious and annoyed when I realised that I wouldn't be able to turn in the
assignment as is. I was certain that it would work, so I didn't have much drive to actually rewrite
it. Before start of the assignment, I had limited knowledge about electric cars and their
popularity. As of now, I believe that electric cars are future of the globe as they have the
prospective to eradicate the usage of fossil fuels in transportation sector. In automotive industry,
electrification can contribute towards better energy efficiency as well as lower levels of pollution
within immediate community. I also think that by 2025, the market of electric vehicles in UK is
estimated to be worth at least £ 475 billion. Considering my overall work, I'm glad that I devised
a decision for making my contribution to complete the working.
It is evaluated by me that the thing which was good in the module was I delivered high-
quality work on time was something that was good and worked well. However, there were
problems or challenges that I faced while finding research of information for the assignment.
Initially, I had various concerns, including how to obtain data and statistics relevant to the topic,
as well as whether or not I would be able to accomplish this assignment before the deadline.
Furthermore, another issue I encountered during the module was performing techniques that
were compliant with the module's requirements. In terms of support, I spoke with a classmate on

how to complete such a programme. My perspective on completing the module was clarified as a
result of their advice. During the course of the assignment, I had various difficulties with relation
to information comprehension. Due to a lack of instruction in dealing with such a circumstance
at the time, I became scared and panicked. In order to deal with such a problem, I enlisted the
support of my teacher, who created the current project. They recommended some pretty
interesting articles and also provided me with a solution to my module. With such help, I was
able to greatly mitigate the issue.
It has been analysed by me that I enjoyed the assignment as lot. There was one thing that I
enjoy a lot while completing the assignment which is improving my knowledge about electronic
cars or vehicles. I have gained huge insights about electronic cars. The adoption of electric
vehicles is a proactive step toward environmental preservation. Usage of these cars helps to
safeguard the environment by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging the use of
renewable energy sources that have a lower carbon footprint. Also, collecting information from
various sources, for example, books, online articles, journals and so on was also enjoyable. From
the assignment, I learnt that electric cars are more environmentally friendly. I also learnt that if a
person is seeking for an inexpensive mode of transportation, electric cars are the best alternative.
This advantage is amplified by the fact that electric cars have lower maintenance expenses than
diesel, petrol and gasoline-based options. Due to the greater purchase of electric cars as a result
of their improving technology, car costs are likely to rise to match the anticipated increased
demand. Electric cars are highly handy, especially in the cities where they are most likely to be
embraced, and as their technology advances, there is a chance that their prices may climb. The
reason for this is that there aren't many vast open spaces in such places where cars can be driven.
Special benefits, such as parking places and charge exemptions, are given to these cars, making
them particularly appealing to city dwellers.
In future, if I get chance to work on similar assignment, I need to develop certain of my
areas that are note making, research and time management. To improve my note taking skill, I
need to decide what is significant, become active listener and reader, avoid or minimise
distractions, make use of symbols and abbreviations, structure notes with headings, subheadings
and numbered lists as well as prioritize the speaker or text. At same time, for improving my
research skill, I need to learn the art of searching and plan your search strategy and follow the
trail of citations to learn more about the scholarly debate on issue through time.

REFERENCES
Books and Journals:
Adderly, S. A. and Et. Al., 2018. Electric vehicles and natural disaster policy
implications. Energy Policy. 112. pp.437-448.
Altun, F. and Et. Al., 2019, November. Design and optimization of electric cars. a review of
technological advances. In 2019 8th International Conference on Renewable Energy
Research and Applications (ICRERA) (pp. 645-650). IEEE.
Ghasri, M., Ardeshiri, A. and Rashidi, T., 2019. Perception towards electric vehicles and the
impact on consumers’ preference. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and
Environment. 77. pp.271-291.
Krawiec, K. and Wierzbicki, Ł., 2018, September. Wireless Electric Vehicles Charging in the
Area of Roundabouts. In Scientific And Technical Conference Transport Systems
Theory And Practice (pp. 77-86). Springer, Cham.
Küfeoğlu, S. and Hong, D. K. K., 2020. Emissions performance of electric vehicles: A case
study from the United Kingdom. Applied Energy. 260. p.114241.
Kumar, A. and Prasad, L. B., 2018, September. Issues, challenges and future prospects of
electric vehicles: A review. In 2018 International Conference on Computing, Power
and Communication Technologies (GUCON) (pp. 1060-1065). IEEE.
Lazaroiu, C., Roscia, M. and Saatmandi, S., 2020, June. Blockchain strategies and policies for
sustainable electric mobility into Smart City. In 2020 International Symposium on
Power Electronics, Electrical Drives, Automation and Motion (SPEEDAM) (pp. 363-
368). IEEE.
Liu, H., Zhang, Y. and Yang, T., 2018. Blockchain-enabled security in electric vehicles cloud
and edge computing. IEEE Network. 32(3). pp.78-83.
Sperling, D., 2018. Three revolutions: Steering automated, shared, and electric vehicles to a
better future. Island Press.
Online:
UK electric vehicle infrastructure strategy. 2022. [Online]. Available through: <
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-electric-vehicle-infrastructure-
strategy#:~:text=This%20strategy%20sets%20out%20our,at%20the%20tailpipe%20by
%202035>