EV innovation shaping future driving

author: FutureCar Staff    

Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained immense popularity in recent years and the trend is expected to continue. In the UK alone, there are approximately 850,000 fully electric cars and 530,000 plug-in hybrids on the roads as of August 2023.

However, not everyone fully understands the advantages of EVs and transitioning from traditional combustion engine cars to EVs will require time and investment. To support this transition, it is crucial for industries like lubricant manufacturers to continue innovating. The question arises: how can we help consumers understand the benefits of EV ownership and promote widespread adoption?

EVs offer several advantages in terms of maintenance, cost, convenience, and environmental impact. Different types of EVs have different maintenance needs, but overall, EVs require simplified maintenance compared to internal combustion engine cars. This simplified maintenance, along with reliable support from workshops, appeals to consumers interested in EVs.

The increased consumer action in buying EVs can be attributed to factors such as the availability of more EV models across price points, trustworthy maintenance resources, and better accessibility of consumer products. Misunderstandings regarding the negative environmental impact of EV production and batteries are also being addressed globally, driving positive change in these areas.

Barriers to owning hybrid cars and EVs vary by region, with cost and infrastructure being significant factors. In the UK, for example, 39% of consumers are concerned about the initial cost of EVs, while nearly 60% are unaware of the long-term cost savings of owning an EV. However, globally, EV infrastructure is improving, with a 50% increase from the previous year. Concerns about battery pollution and range anxiety are also being reduced through improved EV education and circular automotive practices.

Consumers can make adjustments to their lifestyle to seamlessly integrate EVs into their daily routines. This includes checking the availability of charging stations in their local area and utilizing them when needed. In the UK, the number of public charging points has increased by 40% in the last 12 months, making access to charging easier. Additionally, consumers should research financial incentives available for EV purchases and charging station installations, such as the UK government's Plug-In grant.

Innovation is taking place within the supply chain and automotive-adjacent industries to ensure the best EV products are available now and in the future. Supply chains are becoming more sustainable, with reduced plastic packaging being one example of progress. Lubricant technology is also evolving to meet the needs of electric and hybrid models, with partnerships and co-engineering playing a vital role in efficient innovation. OEM partnerships are particularly important in driving innovation and meeting environmental requirements.

The future of EVs and hybrid vehicles looks promising, thanks to ongoing government regulation, investment in EV infrastructure, and continuous innovation in the automotive sector. We can expect developments in digitization, battery management, and autonomous vehicles. However, it is crucial to prioritize the customer experience to ensure a successful transition to a more energy-efficient future.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Automotive World Ltd.

Giuseppe Pedretti is the Regional Managing Director at PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI).

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FutureCar Staff