A veteran electric vehicle salesman from Melbourne has dropped a bombshell confession that's sending shockwaves through the automotive industry: despite selling them daily, he would never personally own an electric car.
The surprising admission comes from an industry insider who has witnessed firsthand the challenges and frustrations faced by EV owners, painting a concerning picture of the current state of electric vehicle technology and infrastructure.
The Reality Behind the Green Dream
While manufacturers and governments promote electric vehicles as the future of transportation, this Melbourne-based professional reveals a different story unfolding in driveways across the country. His warning highlights multiple critical issues that potential buyers should consider before making the switch from traditional combustion engines.
Charging Infrastructure Failures
The salesman pointed to Australia's inadequate charging network as a primary concern. Despite government promises and corporate initiatives, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many owners face:
- Insufficient public charging stations
- Frequent malfunctions at existing stations
- Lengthy wait times during peak hours
- Inconsistent charging speeds
Battery Life and Replacement Costs
Perhaps the most alarming revelation concerns the long-term viability of EV batteries. The expert warned that battery degradation remains a significant, often overlooked issue that can lead to:
- Dramatically reduced driving range over time
- Extraordinary replacement costs running into thousands of pounds
- Limited warranty coverage that leaves owners vulnerable
- Uncertainty about long-term resale values
The Maintenance Myth
Contrary to popular belief that EVs require less maintenance, the professional revealed that when problems do occur, they often prove more complex and expensive to fix than traditional vehicles. The specialist nature of repairs means:
- Fewer mechanics qualified to handle EV issues
- Longer repair times due to part shortages
- Higher labour costs for specialised technicians
- Limited availability of replacement components
A Warning to Prospective Buyers
The salesman's startling honesty serves as a crucial warning to consumers caught up in the electric vehicle hype. While acknowledging the environmental benefits, he emphasised that the current technology and supporting infrastructure simply haven't matured enough to provide a reliable ownership experience for the average driver.
This insider perspective challenges the narrative pushed by manufacturers and policymakers, suggesting that many early adopters may face unexpected challenges and costs that outweigh the benefits of going electric—at least for now.
