Questions are being asked about the success of electric cars

Electric car sales in many countries remain sluggish. In the US, 2773 Chevrolet’s Volt model sold 7.671 in 2011 while sales of 2454 Nissan’s Leaf model reached 9.674. Meanwhile sales of electric cars in the UK for example have topped around 2,100 units since 2006. Major barriers to public acceptance of pure electric cars remain the high prices, due in part to the costs of the batteries. Costing up to US$15,000, a lithium ion battery pack for a car is not a cheap option. Meanwhile customers remain concerned about range, particularly while charging infrastructure is still undeveloped in most areas. Fast recharging could offer a solution to range concerns, but also poses a penalty in terms of reduced battery life. Further technological developments in terms of battery performance and range may well be needed until public acceptance is achieved. And the cost issue of the batteries will also have to be addressed, perhaps with rental or leasing options.