Your take-home messages:

There is a looming need to provide affordable battery replacement and refurbishment services in New Zealand to extend the usable life of electric vehicles and secure their financial and environmental benefits.  Subsidisation of both whole car and battery replacement costs are necessary to guarantee adequate supply of new and second-hand EVs, and to give potential purchasers confidence to invest in EVs.

This month’s poll:

Our twenty-fourth 1-click survey asked New Zealand EV owners to complete the following statement “Ensuring supply of affordable replacement batteries is the most critical need to sustain uptake of EVs in New Zealand ” by choosing one of five options:

1. Strongly agree
2. Agree
3. Neither agree nor disagree
4. Disagree
5. Strongly disagree

Respondents were invited to specify what type of EV they owned or give reasons for their score for the importance of battery replacements for sustained EV uptake.

The poll was sent to 993 recipients on the 9 October 2018.  By 18 October we had received 521 answers, 455 of whom provided additional comments.

Your scores

A majority (65%) of you “strongly agree” or “agree” that securing an affordable supply of replacement batteries is the most serious need for sustaining EV uptake in New Zealand (Fig.1).    Seventeen percent “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” with the moot, leaving 18% that neither agreed nor disagreed.

Figure 1. Responses of 551 EV owners to the proposition that supply of affordable battery replacements is the main need for sustaining EV uptake in New Zealand, October 2018.

What makes you click?

There was a broad consensus amongst us that provision of affordable replacement batteries is important for sustaining EV uptake in New Zealand.  Many of those who disagreed with the moot did not challenge the importance of battery replacement, rather they challenged the notion that the battery issue was “the most critical” need for sustaining future EV uptake.  They thought that high purchase cost, range anxiety, provision of more rapid chargers, subsidisation of purchases and Road User Charges, and ensuring an adequate supply of affordable EVs were equally or even more important than having battery replacement services.  Many others singled out the battery supply issue as the most important future challenge, one respondent going as far as to say we have a “PR disaster” looming when it becomes obvious that the claimed savings and environmental benefits of EVs are negated by the cost and unavailability of replacement batteries. Others saw it as particularly important for late adopters (e.g. “without [the battery replacement] part of the supply chain, the EV fleet will dwindle and die for most owners or never be taken up by those on the fence”.

Nevertheless, a small group of respondents weren’t worried about battery replacement at all, saying that the need was a long way off and that rapid improvements in battery technology and the falling cost of batteries will save their car by the time its range was severely impacted. Some have confidence that there will always be someone else with limited range requirements to buy their car when its battery is degraded, whereas others figured that they would have to sell to buy another EV but were concerned that the degraded battery would greatly reduce the resale value.  Some were comforted by the prospect of repurposing the car or the battery once it is spent, but little detail was proffered on the value and practicability of doing that.

It’s natural to become more concerned about battery replacement as one’s EV loses range (e.g. “I own a Leaf Gen1 with 8 bars – so yes this is getting more and more important to me 😉”. This was seen in the way that more owners of the oldest Leafs (Gen 1.1) “strongly agree” with the moot compared to the youngest (Gen 1.2) model (Fig. 2). The 2011 and 2012 Leafs have median battery health scores of 73% – 78% respectively, compared to 90% and 92% for the 2015 and 2016 24 kWh models (https://flipthefleet.org/resources/benchmark-your-leaf-before-buying/). The Gen 1.1 also have on average a lower efficiency (6.3 km/kWh) than their Gen 1.2 counterparts (6.5 km/kWh; https://flipthefleet.org/2018/memo-25/), so a combination of falling battery capacity and lower range per kWh means this group of owners are going to need replacement or refurbishment of the battery first.

Figure 2. Responses of owners of successive generations of Nissan Leaf owners to the proposition that supply of affordable battery replacements is the main need for sustaining EV uptake in New Zealand, October 2018.  Here the analysis is reduced to only those respondents who provided additional comments, including what sort of electric vehicle they drive. There were 63, 125 and 89 responses from Gen 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 models respectively.

Several of you pointed out that the urgency and importance of battery replacement services varied a lot between different types and marques of EV, and singled out Nissan Leafs as the most in need.  Those observations were backed up by filtering the scores for the main moot by car type (Fig. 3).  Owners of Nissan Leafs and Nissan eNV200s were generally more concerned about supply of battery replacements than owners of Plugin Hybrids (PHEVs), and especially more than owners of other Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The latter group included responses from owners of a Hyundai Ioniq (9), Mitsubishi iMiEV (8), BMW i3 (8), Renault Zoe (8), Tesla (4), Kia Soul (3), Hyundai Kona (2), EV conversion (2) and a VW eGolf (1).   About a third (35%) of ‘Other BEV’ owners were concern about batteries (‘strongly agree’ or ‘agree’) compared to 66% of the Nissan owners (Fig. 3).

Figure 3. Responses of owners of different types of EV to the proposition that supply of affordable battery replacements is the main need for sustaining EV uptake in New Zealand, October 2018.  Here the analysis is reduced to only those respondents who provided additional comments, including what sort of electric vehicle they drive.  There were 376, 15, 42 and 15 responses from Nissan Leaf, eNV200, ‘Other BEV’ and Plug-in Hybrid (‘PHEV’) models respectively.

Some respondents ascribed these differences between EV types mainly to an absence of “Thermal Management” of the Leaf batteries – a combination of warmth and high charge accelerates battery capacity fade (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/30-kwh-leafs-soh-loss/).  But thermal management of the battery is probably not the only consideration.  Our survey sample of Nissan eNV200 van owners is small, but their owners appear concerned about the batteries despite their van having an active air cooling system to reduce overheating of the battery pack (Fig. 3).  Perhaps this relates to the relatively low efficiency (5.7 km/kWh) of the vans and therefore reduced range?

Some of you reckon that concerns about the battery replacement is more a problem of perception amongst prospective buyers than a real concern for those people who have already bought an EV.  Indeed, several of you report that the most common questions they get from sceptics is “how long will the battery last?” and “can it be replaced at an affordable price?”.  The uncertainty undoubtedly undermines the confidence of prospective buyers, especially when added to a lot of unknowns about new technology.  Some people thought the uncertainty will become increasingly damaging to EV uptake, others are confident that the increasing size and quality of batteries and improving charging infrastructure will mean that the concern will decline in future. Some were even looking forward to being able to upgrade the size of the new battery fitted when the original one is spent (e.g. fitting a 30 or 40 kWh battery into a 24 kWh Leaf battery space.  However, nearly everyone acknowledged that assurance of battery replacement or refurbishment would greatly encourage the next wave of purchasers (whose who are called the “early majority” and who follow the “early adopters” in Everett Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations model (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-18/).

There is considerable concern that Nissan are not offering a battery replacement or refurbishment service in New Zealand.  Some respondents ascribe this to the way New Zealand’s current EV uptake program relies heavily on second hand “grey imports”.  Partly this means we get cars entering New Zealand with already depleted batteries, but some owners also pointed to the lack of battery replacements as part of a much wider problem of inadequate after sales service for these second-hand EVs (e.g. “There is no financial incentive for Nissan to help keep these orphans going once they are in NZ, especially if they bring in their new EVs soon and the second-hand cast-offs compete with those sales”).  Some of you think that this puts sustained EV uptake in jeopardy, while others are more confident that a strong market for battery refurbishment will emerge to solve the problem (e.g. “Business interests will take care of the supply, if there is a demand. It’s very early days for a market to be created”). This may require third party parts and home-skilled repair services.  One respondent expressed considerable concern that cheaper “look-alike” batteries to replace the originals may bring added problems of their own, including “homologation” and quality control issues.

Many of the “early adopters” who responded to this survey said that they either did not consider the battery replacement risk when they bought their EV or that they simply “took a punt” that the replacements would be made available by the time they needed them.  For them the sustainability benefits outweighed the financial risks.  But there is a growing awareness that the battery replacement service is in itself a sustainability issue because the battery wears out faster than an EV’s motor and body.  Several expressed horrors about the huge waste that would ensue if a perfectly good car can no longer be a practical substitute for combustion vehicles simply for a want of a replacement battery (e.g. “I don’t want to end up with the auto version of a single use plastic bag!”.  So much energy and past GHG emissions have gone into manufacturing the EV that a long and practical life is crucial for environmental benefits to ensue.  There were several calls for end-of-life planning and services to be instigated, but the expected long life of an EV being driven as far or further than its ICV counterparts is seen as key for achieving a zero net carbon economy by 2050.

Discussion and conclusions

Before we consider the wider implications of the survey, we need to issue a warning about its wording.  The above wording of the question is fudging the record a bit – we made a mistake by asking if supply of batteries was the most critical ‘threat’ rather than ‘need’. Some of you pointed out the error and stated you were ignoring it.  Thankfully, the comments made it clear that all of you (but one) had interpreted the question as intended rather than literally as written.  So, we think the results are reliable and we changed the wording above to the intended meaning to avoid confusion for later readers.  We must do better next time!

Many themes from our earlier 1-click surveys recurred in your responses to the battery replacement question, including: reliance on second-hand vehicles for EV uptake brings many added challenges (e.g. service, supply), as well as some advantages (e.g. cheaper purchase price); a much more active role by government to either mandate service of second-hand imports or subsidise their purchase and servicing is required; the small and very different EV market in NZ puts us at a severe disadvantage for securing supply for electric transition; we cannot expect the same level of risk taking by the early majority as endured by the early adopters so we have to squarely acknowledge the constraints and collectively work as fast as practical to alleviate them; we have a big knot of inter-related constraints of EVs to untie in the minds of prospective EV buyers (range anxiety, small batteries, rapid charging infrastructure, uncertainty in how long batteries and other car components will last, high purchase cost, uncertain resale value); suspicion of new technology and ingrained acceptance and familiarity with combustion vehicles and petrochemicals means that a whole host of perceived disadvantages of EVs must be unpacked before a tipping point of mass uptake is triggered, and: the situation is changing and rapid improvements in EV technology are likely.

Even though you have shared similar concerns in earlier surveys, some of them are undoubtedly more acute in the case of the battery compared to all other parts of EVs.  One respondent summed up this emphasis neatly as “The car is the battery”.  Another referred to it as “the heart of the EV”.  Uncertainty about battery longevity is particularly acute because rapid onset of battery senescence is expected to overtake an approximately linear decline in capacity during its earlier life, but no-one knows when that will tipping point will occur in EV batteries (https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/201803.0122/v1). If no one can reliably predict if an EV battery capacity will hold up sufficiently for 15 years until they have actually used one for 15 years, there is considerable scope for vested interests on both pro and anti EV factions to minimise or exaggerate the risks. Flip the Fleet has concentrated instead on encouraging ongoing monitoring so that the earliest possible warning of capacity senescence can be detected, and on encouraging best practice in charging to extend battery longevity as much as practicable. A detailed study of charging patterns and battery temperature stress in over 50 EVs is underway using “EV Black Boxes” (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/drivers-memo-27/). It will lead to testing the importance of different charging behaviours on battery health and then formulation of individual family and business battery care programmes (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/curious-minds-funding-to-test-battery-fade-issues/).  In the meantime, we recommend that the uncertainty around battery longevity be squarely acknowledged and talked about so that purchasers commit to EVs in full knowledge of the risks, and so that New Zealand adequately prioritises investment and policy interventions for battery maintenance and replacement services.

Flip the Fleet strongly urges that government intervenes and encourages business investments by providing the research and development assistance, a regulatory framework, and industry support for enterprises to provide battery replacement, refurbishment or even battery upgrades for EVs in New Zealand.  The intention and way to develop this service should be signalled as soon as possible to give confidence to prospective purchasers and policy makers that EVs will indeed deliver their promised environmental benefits.  For many early adopters, the material waste and environmental impact concerns surrounding batteries far outweigh the financial implications of having to maintain or replace them.  However, we cannot expect the same discounting of financial penalties from battery costs for the next wave of EV adopters.  The government is apparently currently considering financial subsidies for EVs (https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/government-promises-decent-incentives-for-electric-cars.html), including feebates as recommended by the Productivity Commission (https://www.productivity.govt.nz/inquiry-content/3254?stage=4) and by many EV owners in an earlier 1-click survey (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/financial-incentives-to-accelerate-ev-uptake-1-click-survey-22/).  This latest 1-click survey suggests that any financial incentives, be they delivered by feebates or direct subsidy, should be paid for battery replacements or refurbishment as well as for purchase of whole vehicles when first imported.

Securing support for battery services for new and second-hand EVs arriving into New Zealand from now on is one important part of securing EV uptake. However, we also urgently need battery support for those EVs already in New Zealand if they are not to become a stranded cohort of vehicles that are prematurely scrapped.

Provision of battery services would also help bolster a potentially critical lack of supply of EVs by making second-hand imports environmentally and financially sound investments for New Zealanders. Accelerating sale of new EVs in New Zealand will also reduce reliance on second-hand EVs, at least in the longer run when the new imports are on-sold in New Zealand.  We are the only country in the world attempting a major transition to electric transport based mainly on cheap second-hand imports and without major financial incentives for buying electric (https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2018/09/calls-for-government-to-incentivise-owning-electric-cars.html). This will delay the arrival of the new and improved EV technology to New Zealand and puts our uptake trajectory at risk from market forces that may strangle supply.

New EV sales will greatly help futureproof uptake, but the new EV market faces considerable economic challenges. Strong subsidisation of manufacturers may be needed for them to supply new EVs here, especially when the demand for EVs is ramping up so strongly in other countries and incentives are provided in those other markets.  New Zealand’s vehicle market is small and requires right-hand drive vehicles (most production of EVs is for Right-hand traffic flow and so needs left-hand drive vehicles).  Some respondents to this survey wondered why an automotive manufacturer would want to support cheap imports that compete with unsubsidised and expensive new EVs.

Analysis of this survey and your feedback leave us all with some unsettling questions for future debate and research, and perhaps subjects of future 1-click surveys:

1. Can New Zealand’s transition to low-emission transport be timely and successful if it relies mainly on second-hand EV imports?
2. Will second-hand EV imports be more financially and environmentally beneficial than similar second-hand combustion vehicles, or even new combustion vehicles, if battery replacement and refurbishment services are not provided for the EVs?
3. Can an adequate supply of affordable new EVs be secured for New Zealand to achieve a net carbon zero economy by 2050?
4. Does adequate supply of EVs for New Zealand demand inclusion of a large proportion of second-hand EV imports in our low emissions fleet?
5. If second-hand EVs are needed to meet demand, how can ongoing maintenance and servicing of them be ensured if the car’s manufacturer is not prepared to fully support them once landed in New Zealand by third parties?
6. Is the Consumer Guarantees Act fair on second-hand EV importers and distributers and an adequate safeguard for EV adopters if the EV’s manufacturer is not prepared to take full responsibility for the maintenance and repair services or fixing original faults at manufacture until the end of those vehicles’ lives.
7. What type and level of financial incentives for purchasing EVs and their replacement batteries are needed?
8. How should any such financial incentives be apportioned between new and second-hand cars, and between whole car purchases and replacement batteries, to ensure that an adequate supply of both new and second-hand EVs is available in New Zealand?
9. How can any regulatory and financial interventions be designed to ensure that the new and second-hand import industries work together rather than against each other to achieve the fastest and most financially and environmentally beneficial transition to low emission transport in New Zealand?

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged selection of many of the comments received.

The battery is the heart of the EV

“The car is the battery” ● “The people I speak to all ask “how much is a new battery” as they see the life of the vehicle as the life of the battery” ● “The state of health of our battery is degrading and the car will eventually be useful for fewer and fewer trips. It is the *only* component in the car that is ageing, and the only part (apart from tyres) that need replacing to keep it running like new” ● “An EV will be worthless if you cannot get a replacement battery” ● “The battery is the heart of the EV”

The battery wears out fastest and so sets the lifespan of the EV

“Apart from tyres, brakes and windshield wipers there is not much else to replace from a wear and tear point of view which means the bodies should last a long time and therefore be so much more sustainable in the long term” ● “In a few years time I will need to replace the battery but the car will not have lived out its life by then” ● “Many 1st generation mass market EVs will easily outlast their batteries … to extend their useful life – replacement upgraded battery options are essential” ● “Replacement batteries for older and smaller range cars will be needed if we are to avoid the situation that we scrap a good shell as it is cheaper to buy a new car rather than a new battery” ● “It is essential that the battery replacement price is as low as possible to keep the fleet away from the scrap yard!” ● “Most EV batteries will not last The Life of the car” ● “EV drive trains should last a very long time.  Being able to replace the battery ensures owners can get the benefit of the life of the other parts of the vehicle”

Battery capacity sets the range and usefulness of the EV

“As the batteries age, the range will reduce so being able to replace the batteries affordably will make the initial investment in the EV a better choice” ● “Everything about the Leaf is wonderful except the range anxiety.  I’d rather like to turnover every few years to keep up to date but don’t want to sell someone a vehicle with much reduced range” ● “My car traction battery is down to 69% SOH and an effective range of 75 – 80 km.  It is still great for daily commuting and around the city driving.  I live in Christchurch. I can drive to Akaroa but have to charge in Little River going and returning adding well over an hour to the return trip. I can drive to Amberly but have to charge before returning. I haven’t been able to drive to Darfield because there is no charger for the return journey, although I hope this might be rectified this month.  An upgraded battery with double the range would transform this car and allow me to dispose of my old ICE Honda Jazz which I have had to retain for out-of-town trips” ● “Our 2011 leaf is down to 10 bars. Its travel distance at open road speed would maybe be 70km? Round town it’s fine because the longest trip would be 30km, but this low range really reduces the niche it can fill to replace an ICE. The body etc is fine, but if the range keeps dropping it will make it a car without a motive power. Not very useful” ● “Our leaf is at the edge of my 90km daily commute but I bought a 24 instead of 30kw model due to the issues around 30kw models at the time. When my commute is no longer possible, I will have to upgrade the battery or buy a 30kw. I’m counting on new batteries being easily available” ● “Range goes down fast on open road and if I am to travel out of town I have to spend more time sitting at a rapid charger than driving” ● “The battery SOH is the greatest threat to ensuring our cars remain fit for purpose for us early adopters.  I purchased an 11 bar vehicle and now note it has 9 bars after 18 months and 30 000 kms in my possession.  I love the car but wonder at what battery SOH and how long it will be until through normal battery degradation makes it no longer fit for purpose even though the rest of the vehicle is in great condition” ● “The lifetime of a vehicle is typically in the range 15 – 20 years. The lifetime of the Li-ion battery used in my Leaf has not yet been fully established but is likely to be around 8 years. So, unless there is some provision for a replacement battery the car will be worthless after that time” ● “I was in the aircraft industry and all things on aircraft wear out normally at an acceptable level, then that item is replaced.  My Leaf, as an example, has had only servicing cost to keep my new car warranty. To use the aircraft analogy this vehicle should way outlast any other vehicle because of its simplicity, as long as you are willing to accept the limitations of your particular vehicle. If I use it around town with a stuffed battery I’ll still be able to use it. It won’t have the range but I don’t need range. Yes I also have a late model diesel ute to go places in” ● “At some time in the future batteries will require replacement, but that depends on just how far the remaining life will travel. Anything below 100 km would cause me to seek a replacement, or trade up to a later model” ● “The feedback we are getting, in Auckland from our customers when they drive our courtesy car, is that the most important issue is not being able to drive a far enough distance in the Leaf, [so reducing range] might mean that a second car is required for this type of travel”

A real concern for prospective buyers

“Without that part of the supply chain, the EV fleet will dwindle and die for most owners or never be taken up by those on the fence” ● “I cannot think of any bigger single barrier to sustained uptake” ● “The question about replacement batteries is one of the most often asked when we talk to people about electric cars” ● “Clearly potential purchasers of EVs need the assurance that the power source in their vehicle can be replaced when required, at an affordable price” ● “Someone buying a car 2 years old will figure that there are 6 years to figure out the battery replacement issue. But if the car at the good price point is already 6 years old (and the warranty on battery is 8 years) then the perception is that 2 years ‘remaining battery life’ is not much life, and creates unease if there is no replacement option” ● “Until we can guarantee the supply of affordable replacement batteries, many buyers will delay buying EVs and you have to admit that that’s a sensible and financially sound choice when you don’t know for sure how long the battery will last and whether you can buy a new one to give your car a second life” ● “I would like to be able to make a decision as to by a new electric or recondition the old electric” ● “In conversation with ICE users the question which always comes up is “What do you do when the battery reaches the end of its useful life” ● “It is important to have a reliable, inexpensive source of batteries to encourage late adopters” ● “It is the first thing people say when you tell them you have an EV – “How long does the battery last?” and ”I hear they are really expensive to replace” ● “It was the very first question I asked when I was thinking about buying my EV and it is the first question I am asked by others who are interested in buying one” ● “It’s the factor that will determine the useful life of the vehicle as it’s the only part that wears much” ● “The one thing everyone asks me (when I tell them you drive an EV) is: “what about the battery, isn’t that going to be really expensive to replace?” If the public could be reassured that EV batteries would become more affordable, then it would take the financial uncertainty out of long-term ownership of EVs” ● “Virtually everyone with whom I’ve discussed my Leaf has raised the hoary old question: “Yes, but how long will the battery last?”. Clearly this is at least as great a concern as range and the high initial cost” ● “Battery degradation being the main limit on range as these vehicles age means the cost of battery replacement will dictate the both the re-sale value of an aging EV and the uptake of new or near-new EVs coming into the market. i.e. to gain wide acceptance, new buyers of EVs must be reassured that a battery upgrade is both straightforward and affordable” ● “Battery replacement options is one of the most asked questions for new prospective EV owners. It’s going to be critical to have affordable options for battery replacement in order to get mainstream drivers into EVs” ● “New buyers would also feel like they were taking less risk”

… and concern is increasing

“Potential buyers will be increasingly conscious of this problem and less likely to purchase an EV”

Uncertainty undermines confidence

“The Unknown is not good for long term planning” ● “The uncertainty is a big obstacle to uptake” ● “Without knowing the cost of eventual battery replacements it’s not possible to calculate the long term total cost of EV ownership. This determines whether EVs are a good or bad long term investment from a financial standpoint” ● “For me I am happy with the status at present, my car has another 4-5 years before this comes up for consideration. Many people who are detractors, say, EV too expensive and what happens when batteries die. I say, that will be sorted in 4-5 years, but they need to see that there is some solution on the horizon” ● “People will be more secure if they think the battery can be serviced and part replaced / repaired I think” ● “Seems like a risk we shouldn’t have to take and I’m sure it puts others off”

People like to have options

“I put agree as I feel if there was an option for EV owners in regard to battery replacement options (depending on price) people might be more inclined to purchase an EV as they would know there would be an option if they wish to do down the road of replacing battery if their battery had degraded to a level they felt their vehicle was no longer fit to do the distances they required rather than trying to sell the vehicle and replacing with another EV that would do the range they required. People usually like to have options regarding many things in their life”

A need for replacement looms for some older EVs

“I will need a battery replacement/upgrade within the next few years, and I would like to do this rather than dump the car and buy a new car – but the economics need to stack-up” ● “limited range with a 24kWh battery that is already at 80% of the initial capacity means that we want to replace/ refurbish of preferably upgrade to a 40kwh battery ASAP” ● “The Nissan Leaf should last a lot longer than the batteries do.  This means in a few years there could be a lot of 7 and 8 bar Leafs which require new batteries. I would happily buy another Leaf but my worry is I will have 2 useless cars in 3 or 4 years time” ● “I own a Leaf Gen1 with 8 bars – so yes this is getting more and more important to me ;)”

… but is a long way off for other EVs

“I’m worried about what will happen when my Leaf’s battery reaches the end of its life, but the car still has plenty of life in it!  If this is a concern for me, I am sure it will be for many others” ● “I myself think EVs are a good long-term investment” ● “The concern over battery replacement appears to be a significant problem to non-EV owners, which will be affecting uptake.  I am personally not too worried as I believe my battery has a good chance of out-living me!” ● “In the short term (up to 5 years) the issue is not so critical for me as my car is barely three years old but there needs to be an answer soon around the cost of replacement batteries” ● “Most owners will learn to live with decreasing battery capacity” ● “Hopefully I don’t have to replace the battery for another 8 years. So battery replacement isn’t a big concern” ● “too far down the road [this respondent chose 3, “Neither agree nor disagree”]”

A good market will emerge for replacing and refurbishing batteries

“At this stage even the earliest leaf haven’t really needed battery replacement yet.  I think its most likely that the market for replacement batteries will develop as there are increasing numbers of EVs.  It will likely develop fastest for the most common models” ● “Replacement parts are essential for any machine and parts availability/price is a worry for any early adopter. I expect the present shortfall in replacement battery production to be remedied by the massive worldwide investment in this industry. This will bring choice of manufacture and price competition” ● “That replacement batteries will become “sorted” in the future, once there is greater demand for battery replacement” ● “Battery replacement or servicing is inevitable. One way those services can become available is through the uptake of EVs, not the other way round” ● “Business interests will take care of the supply, if there is a demand. It’s very early days for a market to be created” ● “I think that by the time batteries need replacing there will  be a market provided there are a significant more numbers of EVs in the country” ● “It’s very probable that small private business emerge that recondition or sell new battery packs for old EVs – just like it happened with the old Toyota hybrids”

A reducing problem because battery quality is rapidly improving and cost is falling

“This issue will also fall away significantly as battery sizes increase, as we’re seeing now.  Based on that idea, I don’t think that battery replacement is a valid requirement for EV uptake, I think that it will become equivalent to range anxiety which will fall by the wayside as knowledge of EVs builds within the wider community” ● “the quality of the batteries will be improving. We all know that the Leafs are experiencing quite a bit of degradation but I hear some pretty good things about the resilience of the Tesla batteries (by the way can I see somewhere the SOH of the FlipTheFleet Teslas?). I am hopeful that good batteries should be able to last for what is considered the normal lifespan for a car (not saying that we shouldn’t try to keep car for longer than that on the road!)” ● “it would still be great to see the cost of batteries decline significantly, and the range on a full charge start routinely hitting 400-500km. Tesla has shown the way, let’s hope the trickle down becomes a torrent” ● “Technology moves at such a rapid pace that by the time I would be looking for a new battery they will have improved and dramatically” ● “It’s good knowing the price of replacing batteries is getting cheaper but the day to day savings on running costs is the main reason for buying the EV” ● “Most people (non-EV-owners) I have spoken to cite range anxiety over battery replacement cost. It didn’t figure unduly for me, I assumed that the battery would last a long time, and that by the time it needed replacing the cost would be a lot lower” ● “We expect replacement costs to reduce substantially over the next 5 – 10 years” ● “When you purchase a car it’s normally 100% in new condition, as things age it’s natural for a car to age and the value to decrease. As EVs’ values decrease more will be purchased” ● “With the improvement in battery technologies on the horizon, I believe that the current tech batteries will be moved along to second lives as solar storage or other uses once they become too depleted for EV use. Newer technologies appear to be able to provide longer range, longer life and with less weight” ● “I think battery replacement used to be a threat, but I think those days have gone due to current battery reliability/longevity, EV tech, and the stats we are seeing globally for EV battery life”

Batteries are getting bigger, so range degradation will be less of a worry soon

“As battery size increases (eg. Kona 60kWh) the battery is likely to last the life of the car” ● “Not saying economic replacement batteries aren’t important, but a well-developed highly available Quick-charger network is more critical at this point. This might reduce once most vehicles have batteries that provide >250km range on one charge”

Replacing damaged batteries is also a worry

“I still do not know the answer. What if my battery was damaged in an accident. Where do I go to get it replaced? Are 24kw batteries still being made? How much will it cost? Would love some answers”

Replacements for individual failed cells and modules are needed

“Obviously battery health and battery life expectancy are big questions when buying an EV. If a cell(s) should fail, can we get prompt service/replacement? When the battery expires, will replacement batteries be readily available at a reasonable price?” ● “The EV’s range and battery SoH is set by its weakest cell, and individual cells can burst or self-discharge. It would be a real shame if failure of a single sell forced replacement of an otherwise healthy battery pack” ● “”Our Car should satisfy our daily transportation needs for at least 6 years by then if we continue our behaviour we would buy a new used car – however we consider the idea of keeping this car for 20 years and I hope to find a used later model battery (most likely out of a wreck) to use the modules to keep it going (hopefully installed by a local professional in 6 years)”

A PR disaster looms

“The moment that people need a new battery and are unable to get one is when there will be a PR disaster – at which moment I fear that sales at that end of the market will stall, killing the momentum that is currently building. So yes – it is critical that a replacement battery process exists on the ground, not just in theory”

… or maybe more a perception problem?

“While it may not be a real problem to the extent imagined by the masses, it’s what the masses seem to focus on.  With a population of imported Nissan Leafs securing an affordable option to replace these old batteries is important to 1) keep these assets in use and 2) minimise the hit to reputation that may damage uptake in the future” ● “Current and potential owners get the statements from naysayers that batteries cost a fortune to replace, that they are non-recyclable and are much worse for the emissions and cost over their lifetime than ice vehicles. If we are to convert more people to EVs then we need to debunk their arguments and cheaper battery replacement would go a long way towards that” ● “There’s a lot of angst (I believe) about this topic, much of it misinformed (in my opinion). As an example, to replace the batteries in a 2010 Toyota Prius with 187000km on the odometer will cost about $4000. Toyota guaranteed the batteries for 5 years when I bought it new, subsequently extending that to 7 years. We are now heading into the 9th year, and the batteries are still going fine. When you think of the fuel saved over this time, the cost of the replacement batteries does not seem so exorbitant” ● “We Disagree because we understand that many of these batteries are going to have a real-world operational life of 10 or even 20 years in some cases. (for example, we could easily cope with 50% capacity to meet our daily commuting needs)” ● “Certainly, we’ll need affordable replacement batteries sometime in the next 5 years or so.  However, from watching conversation on EV Facebook groups, it seems like the real issue is that prospective EV owners are *worried* that they’ll need new batteries, far before the actual issue arises.  People buying 90% SOH 2014 Leafs, asking “what am I gonna do about the battery, I need to drive 60km a day” – they don’t realise it’ll be ten years before they even need to adjust their driving patterns.  So, I think the issue is more around perception and understanding, rather than an actual requirement for new batteries” ● “When I was buying my EV I was worried about the replacement cost of batteries (and it’s still an Issue) but then I realised that if my EV’s range ended up being too small for my use then it might still be Ok for someone else. So rather than replacing the battery I could sell the car and buy a new one thereby saving the cost and labour of a battery replacement. Unfortunately, not all potential EV buyers will see it that way, so cheaper replacement batteries are still important” ● “The battery replacements are part of the folklore that petrol heads use for an excuse.  The uptake of EVs is more influenced by purchase price…. If you are looking to spend more than 10k on a car a BEV stacks up as better than a traditional car”

… or not even a real problem?

“Batteries have a good life as already documented.  The issue with the 30kWh leaf has been sorted.  Batteries are lasting a long time with great range, and there is already a second hand replacement option available as the oldest 24kWh Leafs start to lose significant range” ● “I disagree with the statement because we’re already way ahead of having to worry about battery replacement. While it might have been an issue with early-generation EVs, the 2017 and 2018 generations now come with extensive and long-term warranties for the battery. Most people will likely trade in or sell their EVs long before battery degradation or replacement becomes an issue, so by now it’s more of a myth rather than a necessity. I can understand why sceptics like the battery replacement argument as an excuse, and I guess many people still misunderstand EV battery technology, thinking that the battery needs to be replaced regularly, just like the ones in their TV remote or their kid’s toy car. But we don’t really worry about the batteries in our mobile phones anymore, and that is the way we should think about EV batteries, too.” ● “Batteries are lasting much longer than predicted” ● “Batteries have been shown to last a lot longer than first thought” ● “For EVs to replace a large number of NZ’s vehicles, they need to be cheap.  Many of the cheap cars come from auction in Japan: the supply limitation there is likely to be the biggest problem.  Second is range anxiety from non-EV owners (and therefore the availability of fast chargers).  Replacement batteries comes, IMHO, a poor third.  I expect my Leaf battery to need replacement at around 15 years of age.  I’d consider a combustion car of around that age suitable for scrap” ● “I’m not worried about battery degradation. EV is still useful with low range” ● “The battery is not a worry for me as I know it will last a long time. Even at SOH 50% it will do the job for me. At maybe 40% I might look at replacing some of the weaker cells and if there are no available modules, I’ll sell my Leaf to someone who drives 20 kms a week or to someone who is looking at battery storage tech” ● “We bought one unaware of the battery supply issues, and still feel relaxed about it, because we feel we have a lot of time before we will need one and it will be sorted out by then.  It’s not as if the car is going to stop working.  We’ll just have to top up more often” ● “Batteries last for years and even a half worn out Leaf has enough range for most NZers commute” ● “The traction batteries in the dominant models of electric vehicle at present are lasting a lot longer than expected. They are slowly decreasing in range capability but that doesn’t mean that people will choose to replace the batteries. More likely people will not bother with that expense and complication but will on sell the car to owners who have shorter travel requirements between recharges”

Owners have bought on faith that a battery replacement service is coming

“We’re taking a punt that this problem is solved before it affects us” ● “While I have taken a leap of faith myself in buying an EV with the expectation that when my battery does need replacement options will be available the general buying public needs more certainty now” ● “I purchased my EV expecting that affordable replacement batteries would be available within 5 years.  If replacement batteries are not available, my next vehicle won’t be an EV” ● “This was the biggest hold up preventing me from buying an EV for the last few years.  I am still concerned about having a replacement option, and i kind of took a gamble jumping in without a clear solution.  I know when I talk about owning an EV with others who don’t, this is one of the first questions always asked” ● “I believe that the people who are concerned about the possibility that they will have to spend 5k approximately every 5 years have cost as their focus. Having a supply of readily available and affordable batteries would be a huge benefit for current EV owners as this would extend the life of their vehicles.  However, current owners have already taken the leap and are converted.   Therefore, I don’t think having batteries available affects the uptake of EVs by potential purchasers [respondent chose ‘4’ – disagree]”

Batteries are not the only barrier to uptake

“I don’t think that battery replacement is THE most important issue. I think bigger batteries for longer range and price of EVs are equally important” ● “I think EVs being more affordable in the first place ranks higher, but battery replacement is really up there!” ● “I’m more concerned with govt charges to use my car, e.g. road user charges. We still need taxes to keep our roads usable….. If we don’t destroy our planet first” ● “The main reason I hear [for not buying EVs] is range fear and price which is why I didn’t choose “strongly agree” ● “I agree, but not strongly agree.  Battery replacement is not the most important factor but is needed for some potential buyers to give them confidence that their investment will not deteriorate fast with battery degradation” ● “I think it is one of many factors, but did not limit my purchase” ● “Probably not the MOST important as subsidies, charging infrastructure etc are also critical” ● “Being able to replace batteries is important and it would be great to have a supply. But I don’t think it is a critical threat to the uptake of EVs. I think there is still a lot of ignorance around them which stops the uptake, including the ignorance around what happens when you lose a battery bar. The price point of a Leaf is still the biggest threat to uptake in my opinion” ● “I feel this is really important but may be a slightly more long term issue. Some of the more critical shorter-term issues may be around initial outlay costs (and the need for subsidies) and the coverage of charging infrastructure. Is this extensive enough and will the number of places be enough to support a growing fleet” ● “I think a low/comparable up-front cost is the main factor affecting uptake. Other factors in some order: safety, looks, range, size” ● “I think it is one of the factors but would rank below charging concerns such as continued support on a network and availability of quick charging” ● “lack of incentives or subsidies for EVs is possibly a bigger threat” ● “I think that replacement batteries are a factor but not the singular biggest threat to EV take-up.  The future introduction of road user charges, lack of government subsidies and incentives, cost and availability of public charging networks will all have an effect.  Also, as older cars start losing range, they will attract bad press but, if replacement batteries are available at a good price, then this should counter that.  Of course, as more vehicle options come to the market with greater range then we get closer to the tipping point” ● “I think the most critic barrier is purchase price. There is still a significant premium on the cost of equivalent EV vs ICE cars” ● “It is a threat but I baulk at agreeing to the “most critical” part” ● “People that talk to us about EVs say the range is their main concern, then battery replacement. They are also conservative and are scared of change. They are familiar with petrol” ● “I believe the biggest hurdle to widespread take-up is the inconvenience of having to recharge after 1 or 2 hours driving.  There are also concerns about what happens when there is a power cut.  So an EV for a single car family can be a bold choice.  Plug-in hybrids, or range extended EVs may be the answer for many NZers – resorting to liquid fuels on long trips or unplanned events” ● “We need replacement batteries, but range and cost are king” ● “While Affordable replacement batteries is important, Vehicle purchase price VS ICE and driving range between charges are equally important” ● “While I agree that lack of availability of replacement batteries is a threat, I don’t believe it’s the most critical threat. I think there are a number of things, like availability of different models, and price that are larger issues at the moment” ● “I chose Neither Agree nor Disagree, because I think there are lots and lots of reasons against uptake. Lots of people don’t live where they can charge, they drive too far, the cost benefit analysis doesn’t make it worthwhile, it is too unknown, they worry what would happen if they break down/run out of electrons. It is all too unknown. The range of an affordable EV car is too small, no one recommends getting a car on finance, and most people don’t have 20 grand sitting around” ● “Adequate network of rapid charge points is more important I think, but then I’m no expert” ● “Although it is an issue I don’t believe it is the most “Critical”. The high price of new EVs in NZ is still the most “Critical” issue to sustained uptake. Typically, they are double the price of the equivalent ICE version of the vehicle which is beyond average purchasers” ● “Features are getting better eg: range, but entry price has seen little movement” ● “An affordable, reliable, source of replacement batteries does need to be investigated but we don’t think that this is the *most* critical threat to EV uptake.  Ignorance of options and FUD reporting from media and media personalities is more of a threat to sustained EV uptake” ● “As much as it would be desirable to have the ability to refurbish the batteries I don’t see it as the major inhibition to uptake which is more to do with affordability and lack of reliable and plentiful infrastructure” ● “The density, availability, and reliability of DC chargers is a much bigger issue and created uncertainties when going on longer trips” ● “Apart from [batteries] – charging infrastructure [is a barrier].  We’re starting to see a lot more people complaining about having to wait for cars – especially inconsiderate ones.  Charging etiquette isn’t automatic, and we need to do something to help new EV drivers understand what they can do to be more considerate of everyone else around them” ● “Having replacement batteries available is important, but it is not critical for the uptake of EVs in my opinion. For sustained uptake, the general public needs to be aware that EVs are a viable choice. I defined ‘viable’ in this instance as 1) expected driving distance (requires education), 2) sufficient fast chargers to counter range anxiety, and 3) incentives to make EVs more affordable” ● “I think the main issue for having more uptake is increasing the availability of charging stations.  It is too much of a lottery at the moment – will there be an available charging station when I need one?  The pretty limited number of locations, variety of plugs and too few rules on how long people can use charging stations for mean it is too hard to be able to rely on a charger being available” ● “I don’t think replacement batteries is the biggest problem, the main issues are the range, and the mis-information about EVs that is constantly in the media, including the exaggerated (in my opinion) concern about whether our electricity grid can cope with increased uptake and charging of EVs” ● “I think that a bigger threat to sustained uptake of EVs is entrenched conservatism amongst car buyers. They can’t bear the thought that they have to change the way they think about driving. They have been so indulged by readily available, cheap petrol, that they expect to be able to behave in the same way for ever” ● “I think the biggest barriers to EV uptake is people are worried about range, and ability to drive in power outage” ● “I think the main hurdle to uptake will remain concern for range and perceived hassle/fear/uncertainty about charging out of town when on a road trip. Nevertheless, as us early adopters have our cars longer and longer the degeneration of our batterie will be watched by potential new EV drivers. So I don’t think battery replacement is not an issue, I just don’t think it will ever be the main barrier” ● “I think the reason people are slow to buy EVs is because they are expensive and also because they think it will be hard to charge on long trips. i.e. range anxiety” ● “What’s more important is what recharge network is in place. What keeps people from buying a EC is what recharge options are there, how far can I go, will I run out of battery!” ● “The biggest factors for uptake to EVs are price and range.  Range will come with new models over the next few years, more needs to be done to bring the price down.  Even a rebate on the GST paid for an EV would help” ● “The cost of EVs is the most important factor. Then it’s anxiety and concerns usually related to lack of knowledge (or misunderstanding, e.g. most people I speak with do not know they can charge EVs at home, only at charging stations; worrying over losing power if stuck in traffic, much like petrol cars). I would say that availability of replacement batteries is lower down the list of main barriers for potential buyers but higher on the list for current EV owners” ● “The most limiting cause is the lack of political desire to provide NZ citizens with financial incentive to purchase an EV. The huge capital cost is a large barrier to entry for the average New Zealander” ● “the reason I disagree is that charging infrastructure (starting with main highways) is more important – replacement batteries is only important long term!!” ● “The up-front cost of an EV is the most limiting factor in the uptake of EVs” ● “A more critical threat might be the supply of electricity, or supply of cars” ● “I think the big blockers are actually range, EV upfront cost, and, to a lower extent charging infrastructure”

Barriers multiply each other, but the solution for one helps the other

“Having a replacement battery available in 10 years is vitally important to sustainably maintaining what is an otherwise a very low-maintenance vehicle. But what good is a replacement battery if I’m limited to the few locations where I can fast charge? Even a severely degraded battery is useful for short distances. Fast-chargers should be available at every petrol station, or freely available as a public service at generator sites (such as the Brooklyn turbine). I shouldn’t have to carefully plan a long-distance trip around the location and potential (un)availability of fast chargers. Removing one barrier helps alleviate the other” ● “We haven’t given any thought to replacing the battery. Even a car with reduced range will have a practical use as a town/city car. And with more and more public chargers being installed, the range is extended for trips and we won’t need such a healthy battery” ● “As the charger network fills in, shorter range EVs will become even more feasible then they are at the present”

EV benefits outweigh the battery risks for some people

“While I think replacement batteries are important, I don’t think it is defining EV ownership.  My impression is that current owners are largely buying EVs because they think or feel it is good for the environment and earth” ● “My main thoughts were the sooner I got into an EV the sooner I would be making a difference to global emissions”

It’s a worry for second-hand imports in particular

“I don’t see a problem for EVs bought new from NZ distributors – they will sort it. It’s the second-hand market that needs to be covered” ● “I have taken a risk in switching to an EV. Battery life is something of an I known quantity as is the availability of replacement batteries for EV models which are not yet sold in NZ by the manufacturers” ● “We are a second-hand vehicle economy which makes it significant but technology movement will require us to reduce vehicle life so not critical”

It’s part of a bigger problem of back-up service needs for EVs

“The only way EVs will grow is to have good backup on parts and service” ● “There’s no point having a car, any car, that you can’t get parts for and the EVs are useless without a useable battery” ● “We need a realistic supply of replacement batteries so we can keep our battery pack maintained and in a ‘healthy’ state” ● “You have to have access to all spares in order to provide sustainability and surety for people to make the necessary investment without having the fear that you could be throwing good money down the drain. The environmental benefits of this technology is one of the keys to coping with climate change” ● “We should have systems in place where replacement batteries are available for all popular models brought into the country”

It’s a particular problem in New Zealand

“I am aware my battery will deteriorate someday and it is one concern- that the battery is not easily replaceable here in NZ” ● “Potential EV purchasers need assurance that their purchase can be affordably repaired” ● “Being a water-locked Island in the Pacific Region also poses a challenge when needing to replace batteries and so a supply here in NZ is essential”

Import and safety issues must be sorted out

“In the next decade, the oldest EVs in NZ will start to require full battery replacements… by then, hopefully someone – maybe even car dealerships – will start to work in this space & sort out all the required import & safety issues”

Batteries replacements are part of a long-term expectation

“It gives you more confidence in the longevity of your investment and better for the environment” ● “It is a reasonable expectation for a vehicle buyer or owner that their vehicle should be able to be serviced and its significant components maintained or replaced, if required, for the duration of its roadworthy life. In the case of an EV, it is reasonable to expect that the body, electrics, motor and transmission are designed and built to provide an economic service life of 15-20 years  and 100’s of thousands of kilometres running. The traction battery service life is a critical element of this and as such must be able to be supported by importers and/or manufacturers and/or independent 3rd party agents” ● “[availability of battery replacements] is not a massive deal but impacts people’s long term decision making” ● “It’s usually the first question asked about long-term maintenance” ● “Total cost of ownership calculations could be more favourable if replacement batteries were available”

… but others are thinking of shorter-term ownership

“Most people don’t keep cars for the (supposed) 8-10 year life of modern batteries. So, may not consider replacement of the battery as a critical consideration when buying an EV (it certainly wasn’t for me)”

We don’t know enough about battery longevity yet

I” think we don’t have enough information on what happens to batteries when they’re 15-20 years old+ to know for sure yet” ● “Apparently the battery life of current EVs is unknown as so few have failed or ‘worn out’. The estimate for replacement is around ten years from what I read. In the next ten years we can expect big advances in EV technology and especially battery technology. I tend to not worry about things that are so far into the future [Respondent chose ‘4’ – disagree]”

Affordability is needed for mass EV uptake

“Presently many people will not consider purchasing an EV because they know that the battery will eventually be exhausted and the replacement cost is more than the cost of a basic but economical and reliable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. That is assuming a replacement battery will even become available. Those of us that HAVE purchased an EV are simply living in hope that time will allay our fears and we will be able to keep our EVs going without having to buy a whole new vehicle simple because it needs a new battery. If I did have to buy a new EV for this reason I would definitely give a second thought. Just the wastage of scrapping an otherwise perfectly good car would irk me. Generally speaking, throughout history the uptake of new technologies has been taken up primarily because it’s economically beneficial for people to do so. There may be some of us who can afford to do the right thing for the environment but if this EV movement is to gain sweeping uptake it needs to be affordable for the masses. If replacement batteries are too expensive those at the lower end of the socio-economic spectrum will never buy an EV” ● “Probably more relevant to people buying older models at a cost affordable price were the batteries are getting down in SoH” ● “The current high cost of electric cars excludes lots of car owners. When owners of the current vehicles’ batteries lose their range and are traded in/sold, they will be then bought at lower cost by those who could not afford the initial high cost.  But when battery life is done, the high cost of battery replacement will mean the dumping of vehicles which with a new battery still have a long life ahead” ● “Without replacement batteries in a few years we will have a lot of money sitting idle in the garage” ● “As EVs start to show more battery degradation, the cost benefit of buying an older EV and replacing the battery becomes too costly, so the vehicle will become useless to potential buyers. The only way to enter the market would be by an EV that would only be useable for a couple of years, or to spend upwards of $25k to buy a vehicle that will last 8-10 years. Whereas with current ICE vehicles, older vehicles are still able to be resold at a much lower price bracket” ● “Considering the cheapest EV is the Leaf, it will be the most likely to be adopted by lower income groups So having an economic way of replacing/upgrading batteries on older models will allow greater uptake for all” ● “To ensure that the vehicles have max possible lifespan and then can be an affordable option to lower income families” ● “Range/affordability ratio more important for the foreseeable future”

The car will devalue faster than the battery

With modern cars made to last only ten years and improvements in EV’s, I expect my car will devalue faster than the battery.

It’s a sustainability issue

“We are against the “throw away mentality” ● “The environmental sustainability of battery replacement has huge potential to either add to or detract from the overall green credentials of EVs” ● “It would be equivalent to writing off an ICE vehicle because the petrol tank is too small.  That would clearly not be a sustainable model” ● “For a vehicle to be a sustainable option the greater part of needs to have a long long life- so being able to replace the battery once it degrades is critical.  I don’t want to end up with the auto version of a single use plastic bag!” ● “EV is must be sustainable, not written off at 5 to 7 yrs” ● “Supposedly EVs are ecology friendly. It would be totally ridiculous to throw away a car just because the battery has reach the end of its useful life. That would waste all the energy and resources which was used to produce that car” ● “The batteries should not only affordable, but reliable for many years, so we don’t dump the cars to waste, while still in good state to use, for battery reasons” ● “We love our car – it’s meeting all of our needs apart from range – it seems ridiculous to scrap it just because one component no longer performs the task it needs to due to wear. You don’t throw out an ICE vehicle when the engine fails” ● “Because the engine in EVs can potentially last a very long time, I would like to replace the battery in 7 years’ time rather than buying a completely new vehicle. This seems to add to the sustainability value of EVs” ● “Cost of petrol has never been an issue for us when deciding for an EV. We bought for environmental reasons. We knew that the battery will slowly degrade but we knew that there will have to come a solution for that. If it does not come, or if it is not affordable, people may just dump the EVs after they are not usable anymore?” ● “I hope to be able to keep my Leaf for many years, and battery replacement will become a reality over the next 5 years (like many other owners of 2nd hand Japanese imported Leafs).  I want to own a car sustainable not only in terms of its current battery power, but also for the longer term with a sustainable and economic battery replacement service” ● “We don’t emphasise enough that EVs offer a whole new model of vehicle ownership i.e. they will last way longer than conventional cars if we can replace the batteries from time to time.  People are claiming that a Tesla will go a million miles before it would be due for scrapping!  The low repairs and maintenance costs, smooth ride, computer smarts and reduced number of moving parts will make them age slowly.  It would be a travesty if we have to scrap perfectly good 2011 Leafs in a couple of years simply because we haven’t got ourselves organised to replace the batteries.  There is a lot of plastic and metal in the car, and lots of GHG emissions are expended to make the car in the first place.  If we can double or triple the life of the car’s body, we can about halve the whole-of-life carbon footprint of the car even though we have to replace the batteries from time to time” ● “In order to have security that I can keep my car on the road without buying a whole new car is my reason. This is for cost to me but also cost to the environment of not having to produce as many new cars” ● “My car is relatively energy efficient and environmentally friendly, but only as long as it has an effectively functioning battery. If the battery is able to be replaced or refurbished at a reasonable cost, the energy efficiency continues. The battery if refurbished, is also environmentally friendly. The car itself continues to be used, without becoming an environmental problem. The cost is the key. If it is too expensive then both the old battery and the car itself become a recycling or disposal problem” ● “Part of sustainability is being able to make use of a vehicle for its natural life. Batteries are the weak link in an EV’s life. Being able to access an affordable replacement is essential” ● “Replacement batteries are key to the message of buying EVs that aren’t disposable – that we can invest in this technology and continue to benefit from improvements in this technology, that we can end the upgrade cycle and reduce our consumption” ● “The ability to either replace cells of the whole battery at a reasonable price is key to the ongoing viability and longevity of EVs otherwise they become scrap metal and plastic waste” ● “Full replacement looks very costly, but is crucial to sustainability of the car” ● “Replacement batteries will ensure EVs will not end in landfill prematurely” ● “Otherwise perfectly useful EVs will be written off if the cost of a replacement battery makes it uneconomic to refurbish” ● “Long term sustainable uptake will be affected by much more than the cost of replacement batteries”

Battery manufacture is not environmentally friendly

“I believe that batteries, along with use of unethically sourced precious minerals used to make these, are areas of contention with a lot of people, in NZ and beyond”

Battery replacement cost of around $5k would be affordable

“Second hand EVs from overseas are very affordable due in part to subsidies paid by foreign governments. The vehicles are modern and will last many years in Kiwi hands provided the batteries can be replaced for a reasonable price – i.e. $5,000” ● “recently I had my Mitsubishi serviced for a ‘range dropping dramatically’ and had a ‘cell smoothing and battery maintenance reset’. Casually I asked what is the cost of a new battery, and was told ‘about 5 to 6000 dollars’, but I was not assured that it could be obtained and as the car now worked well, I left it. I go for my next doctor’s certificate in April next year. If  I am fit to drive for an other 2 years, I may get a new battery if the price is still the same” ● “Changing out a battery in 10 years time for say $5-8k is a big expense but still may be less than we were paying to service our old petrol car over that period.  (Especially if we can reuse the battery at home thereafter with an inverter)” ● “Your question did not have a base line.  US prices I believe for leaf are about $5000 us.  Spread over 10-15 yrs is ok”

Battery replacements not yet evident

“I have not heard of any one needing to replace a battery. I will replace the car before it is 10 years old and with reduced capacity the battery will last that long” ● “So far none of the leaf models have needed a replacement battery. I’m fairly sure in 10 years when I need one there will be a supply or I’ll sell off the car and upgrade”

Lack of supply of EVs and their batteries

“I think there are two main threats to sustained EV uptake: inadequate supply of affordable EVs themselves, and an adequate supply of replacement batteries.  While the government may, just may, introduce feebates to help erode the EV’s “sticker price”, this will have minimal effect on uptake if the supply of vehicles is not there (prices will just continue to climb and swallow up the feebate incentive).  It seems to me that the EV product is so good and such a great fit to NZ conditions that they have and will sell themselves to many buyers. The excellent efforts of EECA, Better NZ Trust, Drive Electric, sympathetic media, ChargeNet NZ, providers of free rapid charging, EV World and Flip the Fleet have helped enormously too.  The demand is now in place – it’s the supply that we need to secure next”. Lack of supply applies to replacement batteries as well as whole cars” ● “If [a battery replacement service] can be achieved, NZ can import many more EVs that overseas markets would reject due to low battery capacity” ● “supply is our key problem for sustained uptake of EVs” ● “There are a lot of 2011-2012 Leafs, many with low KM’s that would make great entry cars if new batteries could be obtained at a reasonable price” ● “[battery replacements are needed] to make 2nd hand EVs affordable” ● “Replacement batteries will eventually become important, but not in the near future. And where’s demand, there’s supply. It will sort itself out when needed. I don’t think it’s the most critical threat to EVs. Getting enough affordable new EVs to push out ICE cars is the biggest problem in my opinion”

Lack of supply may make battery price go up

“I believe I read that Nissan Leaf replacement batteries have actually significantly gone up in price (worldwide) rather than come down as we were to believe was going to happen from year to year”

Concern spurs battery care strategies

“People I have spoken to re EVs are put off them by the cost of replacement batteries. I too am concerned not only by the cost but by the (lack of) availability. I am extremely careful with battery charging, keep the temperature at not more than 5 bars and never use a public rapid charge unless it’s absolutely necessary during a trip that takes me more than about 90km from home” ● “I am confident in my car and its battery as long as I do everything I can to care for it properly and extend the battery life” ● “I’m confident my battery will last a whole [while longer] with good care”

The motor needs to last

“They are a bit of an unknown as is the motor.  At the end of the battery’s life going to have enough life in it to do another cycle?

Repurposing: new uses for spent EVs?

“Maybe different thinking might bring change: repurpose old EVs for very short range duties like airport vehicles, onsite security, retirement villages etc.”

Repurposing: A second battery life

“Even the 1st gen Leaf is a brilliant car but its battery will not last as long as the usable life of the whole car. An affordable replacement battery and the re use of the old battery in second life home as electricity storage is a must for the EV revolution to really take hold” ● “It is important to me to be able to plan for the replacement of my main battery bank, not only because my current battery is 7 years old and due to end its useful life in three years, but because I would like to replace the Leaf’s battery now and use the old bank as a storage device for the PV cells I plan to install. I can then use the Leaf during the sunny days and transfer the charge to the car in the night” ● “Kitsets for adapting used batteries as house batteries not yet available” ● “I heard that old batteries can be resleaved or used as stationery batteries”

Battery refurbishment will be part of the solution

“I’m most excited at the prospect of being able to refurbish older batteries, though (something our mechanic is keen to look into), as that would reduce batteries/components going to landfill and should be cheaper than full replacement (better all round). Fingers crossed it can be done” ● “Affordable replacement is only one aspect of an aged/inefficient battery. Solutions to extending battery life will continue to evolve, without the need for a complete replacement. EVs are still only in their infancy re potential for conserving battery life!” ● “I think eventually batteries and EV cars will be common enough that there will be old and refurbished batteries available, and mechanics with the skills to replace them (instead of oil changes)”

Battery size can be upgraded as well

“I hope that the battery could be upgraded say 24Kw to 40Kw if that was possible who knows, battery technology is advancing rapidly” ● “Its a huge amount of resources going into making a vehicle, the rest of the car will last much longer.  We don’t need new features other than increased range and most probably a replacement battery could have a bigger capacity than the original one had when new”

A need for end-of-life solutions

“Leafs are the most common EV vehicle in NZ and not having a solution after the end of a battery life is a game changer – the whole importing of electric cars will become a useless exercise for an eco-friendly country. Wreckers will have a lot of fun with storage of the useless leaf batteries” ● “I think there is always going to be pros and cons to internal combustion engines and EVs alike – however, we know all the ICE problems because they’ve been around for so long, the EV problems are just starting. Replacement batteries will be a problem, but also disposing or recycling old batteries will become a huge problem in time, just as ICEs pile up in junk yards. There is opportunity for NZ to get ahead of these problems, and lead the way like we often do” ● “As long as old batteries can be recycled or used usefully, any incentive for NZers to buy newer cars rather than hanging on to the old model seems useful for the average age of the fleet”

Fuel cells will be more sustainable

“I believe that the future for electric vehicles lies in the refillable fuel cell, probably hydrogen based. The impracticality of rechargeable batteries combined with the limited supply of lithium for present battery technology mean that the high waste throwaway approach of battery power is not sustainable. Focus must move from disposable to reusable; the world’s resources are finite”

High cost of the replacement battery and EV affordability

“Apart from the cost of buying an EV the cost of replacing a battery is a bit of a gulp” ● “Because of the high capital cost, we need cheaper and reliable batteries to offset the capital cost and make EV motoring cost effective” ● “Many of my friends are now regularly asking me about an affordable EV (where they mean around $10-15k). The Nissan leaf is the only affordable mass market car that fits the requirement. Generally, the car will be a 2012-2015 model at that price point. My friends can live with slightly reduced battery capacity – with a 90km range. But the question they always ask is: A car this old will have say 6 years of its battery life used up – are there replacement batteries available if it were to fail? And the answer right now seems to be No” ● “[affordable replacement batteries are needed] to be able to minimise road costs except for normal costs – reasonable  tax, & registration & WOF & maintenance costs” ● “Most current motorists may be put off at the idea of having to spend out thousands on a battery – whilst maybe not taking into account that this is the only real maintenance expense they may face for an EV”

Battery replacement costs undermine savings from low running costs

“Hopefully it won’t be a problem for us before we can afford to replace batteries, or update our car, but it will have some impact on us, for sure…. and potentially undoes all the savings we make not having to do oil changes and so many brake pad replacements?” ● “If there is no affordable battery replacement for our iMiEV then we lose the benefit of using a small electric car which is a very economical car for urban transport” ● “it is the only fuel supply carrier for an EV, so you need a good replacement battery supply for the electric cars to grow and at affordable replacement cost”

Battery replacements should be subsidised

“We need more EVs on the road, the IPCC report gives us a last chance, we do not have much time, we need to adapt and quickly, batteries for solar and wind storage need to be subsidised and encouraged – now” ● “EVs have very long life, much longer than the batteries which power them, so it is essential that low cost replacement batteries are available. The government could help by removing the GST on them” ● “The government will be needed to provide a subsidy, perhaps part of the Feebate exchange of funds, to subsidise the cost of the replacement batteries.  Our NZ market is small and weird on a world scale because it depends on the second-hand imports.  There is no financial incentive for Nissan to help keep these orphans going once they are in NZ, especially if they bring in their new EVs soon and the second-hand cast-offs compete with those sales”

Resale value and market availability worries

“It will become a worry as the vehicles age if they have no resale value” ● “As the battery range decreases over time this makes the vehicle much less attractive for resale” ● “I am most concerned about the cost of replacement batteries for my car.  My car has a terrible ‘trade in’ price due to the battery which now has only 10 bars.  Replacement batteries need to be affordable and at this stage, they just aren’t” ● “It reduces range and resale value” ● “I would say this is one of the things that plays on my mind as a potential issue when it comes time for resale (who is going to want to buy a car with old batteries?). And, of course, old batteries give the likes of a 24kWh model even shorter travel distances” ● “It’s the most commonly cited failure, it is what would impact on my resale value most” ● “Sustained value in sticking with this EV is ability to avoid petrol price volatility/risk which is higher than electricity price risk. As range declines with battery health then the value of the car is discounted despite any loss of mechanical / physical state of the vehicle” ● “Too many times I get asked by “non-believers” what I will do when the car is not economical usable due to poor mileage. At this stage in New Zealand and I believe the rest of the world, the supply of replacement batteries is expensive and difficult. This has major downstream effects on the depreciation” ● “Without the ability to easily and affordably replace the traction battery, it will be difficult to sell older electric vehicles, and that will make for a restricted second-hand market”

Leafs rule!

“The leaf is and will be for some time going to be the most affordable and therefore most numerous EV available for the next 3 to 5 years. The cars themselves will still have plenty of life left in them long after the battery may be deemed no longer suitable due to poor capacity. A ready supply of refurbished and new replacement batteries will ensure the used Leaf is available as a replacement for lower cost smaller cars instead of importing more ICE vehicles” ● “But the reason I have a Leaf is they were the most readily available when I bought my car a year ago. Also, they are the best value for a full electric car” ● “Batteries are so important to EVs.  People have a fear of them wearing out in less than 5 years.   We have a 6-year old Nissan EV going well”

Importance of battery replacement varies between models

“I think replacement batteries will be a problem for some vehicle models.  Some are trying to get the most range at the expense of battery degradation.  Others are making the battery last the life of the car.  In years to come we will see what car makers have done.  Keep an eye on the dog and lemon guide” ● “The BMW i3 I now own has done 72000km over 3 years and 9 months, and the batteries are still 78% effective, which I am quite happy about” ● “According to BMW the battery should be good for 500,000 miles and will give service for many years. Leaf batteries have different problems but will likely be passed down to lower users i.e. retirees and housewives”

Most worries are about the Leaf’s batteries

“Besides the Leaf, there has been no strong evidence that battery longevity is a problem. I cannot imagine that many companies will sell EVs with no TMS going forward” ● “We are constantly checking State of Health and worrying about battery degradation. It means the end of the Leaf’s life if there is no affordable replacement batteries available” ● “Nissan NZ shows little interest in servicing used imports” ● “Nissan Leaf owners are hamstrung by Nissan’s irrational refusal to supply batteries at all for Japan import Leafs, and this is going to become a significant issue in coming years if not addressed early on” ● “I get ask about battery life and replacement all the time when people ask me about EVs. Replacement options for the leaf still seem very vague, even after Nissan making a big deal about opening them up to non-OEM suppliers” ● “Soon, the fleet of NZ EVs that is mostly made of Nissan Leafs will start to need replacement batteries and if they aren’t available or affordable, this will put some people off from the technology” ● “Currently, the early generation Leaf batteries are the ‘worst’ in terms of degradation.  My 2011 has just hit 7 years old and still retains >70% of its battery capacity, with >100km of real-world range” ● “it’s realistic to expect that the Leaf will last beyond the age of a median car in the fleet while retaining enough range to continue having some value.  Under this circumstance, a replacement pack may not be economically feasible when compared to replacing the vehicle with a newer model”

30 kWh Leafs may be hampered by battery over heating

“I want to be able to continue using my [30 kWh] Leaf for long distance travel, so I need a sustainable power battery that I can charge on a fast charger without the risk of degradation battery”

Thermal management of batteries will reduce the problem

Battery capacity fade is a real practical problem for the early EVs like Nissan that don’t have Thermal Management of the battery.  The batteries’ life depends on keeping them cool, especially when fully charged. Nissan are one of the few companies that don’t thermally manage their batteries.  So it’s mainly Leafs that have a big issue with early battery capacity fade and if New Zealand escapes its reliance on Leafs, especially second-hand ones, the battery longevity issue will be less important.  That said, there appear to be some issues with Mitsubishi Outlander batteries too, and there is not a lot of battery monitoring and experience going on for other manufacturers’ models” ● “The batteries do degrade quickly in the Leaf and others. Replacement batteries are essential to justify the investment in a cheaper electric car without thermal battery management” ● “Also battery degradation is limited in EVs with good thermal management so this issue, in NZ, for Nissan Leafs mainly”

Plug-in hybrids give the best of both worlds

“We have always had luxury cars and the Mercedes-Benz C350e allowed us to enter the EV market albeit in plug-in hybrid form whilst still being able to enjoy the privilege of luxry car use and enjoyment. As we use this car mainly for town use most of our travelling is on battery. The first petrol fill up was after 3 months and nearly 1,000km so petrol use is low. We have another Mercedes-Benz for my business use and touring”

Will look-alike batteries get us out of a jam?

“Cheap look alike batteries made by third parties are not likely to be as reliable as the OEM ones, and a whole raft of homologation and safety issues arise if we don’t get Nissan to supply their own replacement batteries in NZ.  Nor can the quality of these replacement batteries be assured.  VIA have been making unsubstantiated claims that cheap replacement batteries will be available from Asia, but we need more surety than that”

Hiring or leasing batteries to reduce worry

“I believe one manufacturer was once supplying the batteries on an ongoing lease/hire basis – would this type of scheme help avert people’s fears?”

Education is needed

“I think the supply of affordable replacement batteries is a very important factor in the sustained uptake of EVs in NZ. However, I think the threat to uptake is more one of public perception than reality. Most ICE vehicle owners’ only experience of a battery is when their 9 volt battery suddenly dies. They don’t realize that EV batteries slowly degrade over years, and that they will still have 80% capacity after 5 years and probably at least 60% capacity after 10 years. A 10 year old ICE car is definitely no longer in pristine condition by any means. A public education effort to help potential buyers understand EV batteries will be very important. If the public realizes that the battery in a recent model EV will almost certainly give them sterling service for at least 7 years, and that at the end of that time a replacement battery will be available at a reasonable cost if required, that should allay most fears. If it is also pointed out that the EV will have saved them something like $17,000 in fuel and maintenance costs in that time (far more than the likely battery replacement cost), they may be even less worried. A secondary point is that their EV will have been upgraded in performance by the new battery, while the EV motor will still have at least 300,000 km to go…” ● “While the battery replacement may cause some worry education as to how long a battery will last and range anxiety are more important to convincing people that an EV is a viable alternative to current cars”

Manufacturers are not incentivised to replace or repair batteries and should be regulated

As long as car manufacturers produce vehicles with very limited lifespans, people will mostly end up buying new EVs once their old ones haven’t sufficient battery life left – I would imagine that car manufacturers are not too interested in supplying batteries for their old cars – they need to sell new ones” ● “The only way would be to force car manufacturers just like we currently do via the CO₂ emissions reduction goals to build a modular car designed to be upgraded in the future with batteries, motors etc.  as I doubt they change their business models voluntarily”

Mobilise the suppliers and politicians!

“I am happy to answer because it may help to put pressure on suppliers and politicians etc for change” ● “Innovations from industry growth should bring about many solutions for these issues, but the Government needs to be on board and assisting to ensure the framework is set up for the ever increasing fleet of EVs in NZ’s future” ● “I think the greatest threat to uptake is policy. If the government removes the exemption from RUC, it will create the perception that EVs are too expensive by comparison” ● “The most critical for sustained uptake is definitely not battery replacement, rather general govt position and mandate. Feebates, fleet purchases, govt depts, chargers, tax, etc. All else will follow”

Sorry, not our best wording!

“But to be clear, I don’t think “ensuring supply…” is a threat to uptake.  The lack of supply is.  I suggest you reword your question” ● “Impossible question to answer. Relative to what? Too many possible factors for me to make a call on whether this is the MOST important factor. It is very important for sure” ● “Unfortunately the question was not clear.  ‘Ensuring’ supply cannot be a threat – rather it is an imperative.  “Uncertain” supply certainly is a threat, although I am not sure if it is the greatest threat” ● “I strongly disagreed, because the question states <most critical threat>” ● “The wording of the survey question is a bit misleading – if anything then NOT ensuring supply might be a threat to EV uptake”

Dima Ivanov, Daniel Myall, Henrik Moller and Monica Peters

12 November 2018

Your take-home messages:

This month’s poll:

Why did we ask this question?

Your scores

Table 1: Main information source that persuaded participants of different ages to purchase an electric vehicle. Data are sourced from 341 responses to the Flip the Fleet survey who commented and indicated their age in response to the main question.

Table 2: Responses to questions about the main information source that persuaded participants to purchase an electric vehicle by gender. Data are sourced from 335 responses to the Flip the Fleet survey and includes those who provided an information-related comment and indicated their gender.

What makes you click?

Personal testimony of owners really helps

Community events may be more important than the scores suggest

Just drive it! – bumping EV misconceptions and increasing uptake through drive experience

Dealers facilitating EV uptake

The special power of social media

Flip the Fleet is an information destination and disperser

The Courtesy Car project is a winner

Multiple information sources help

It’s not just a need for information on the EVs – other considerations must fit

There is increasingly amounts and better information out there

Media information streams

Discussion and conclusions

Figure 2:  Gartner’s Hype Cycle framed for EV uptake

Your comments in detail:

Information and external factors together solved the EV purchasing puzzle

Even with persuasive information, a family hybrid model needs to be viable in order to buy

Information that is honest, trustworthy, and direct from the source is powerful

The test drive is the clincher; where information meets first-hand experience

There is information and experience flowing between business and employees

EVs fit with the tech geeks, who have been collating information for years

Whānau are information and experience banks we gravitate toward, respect, and trust

Collecting information from various sources seems a strategy to relieve any doubts

Some trust what’s on the internet, others don’t

TradeMe for price analysis, comparison and purchase

Social media – word of mouth made digital

Films, shows, videos, radio interviews and print media have all presented persuasive information

Car dealers – varied level of knowledge but for the most part very helpful

EV was a soak up for excess solar power, and part of the ‘going green’ information gathering process

Rented an EV to experiment, and bought one soon after!

Innovators had to take the risk, go off international experience, and make it happen!

Flip the Fleet has proven useful for spreading the word

Community events – EV information heaven!

Knowledge of the EECA subsidy persuaded purchase for training

Previously positive ownership experience informs future EV purchase

External factors/Other/Unsure

NZ EV websites shared in your comments:

• https://www.transport.govt.nz/multi-modal/climatechange/electric-vehicles/

• https://driveelectric.org.nz/

• http://www.electricheaven.nz/

• https://www.energywise.govt.nz/on-the-road/electric-vehicles/

• https://flipthefleet.org/

• http://evtalk.co.nz/

Your take-home messages:

More than three quarters of New Zealand’s existing electric vehicle (EV) owners consider that financial incentives from public funds are needed to ensure that more than half of new registrations of vehicles are electric by 2025. Incentives are needed to make new EVs affordable, to ensure supply meets demand, and to escape risky reliance on used EV imports that currently are not fully supported by their manufacturers once they reach New Zealand.

This month’s poll:

Our twenty second 1-click survey proposed that: “Additional financial incentives will be necessary for New Zealand to reach a milestone of having half or more of its new vehicle registrations being EVs by 2025”, and provided five options to choose from

• Strongly agree
• Agree
• Neither agree or disagree
• Disagree
• Strongly disagree

The question was prefaced by the following introduction to help create a common understanding of terms: “Tax exemptions, reduced vehicle registration charges and ‘feebates’ (where additional taxes from high-emission vehicles subsidise the costs of low-emission vehicles) are examples of financial incentives offered in other countries to incentivise switching to electric vehicles. So far, EV owners in New Zealand are exempt from road user charges and incur a reduced ACC levy. Our national EV fleet has been more than doubling in number every year”.

Respondents were invited to provide feedback in an open comments field to explain the detail or reasons for their choices.

The poll was sent to 941 participants in Flip the Fleet on 13 August 2018. There were 542 responses by 20^th August 2018, including 233 who provided an explanation or further reasoning for their choice.

Over three quarters of respondents (79%) either ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that further incentives will be needed for New Zealand to reach or exceed the proposed EV uptake target by 2025 (Figure 1).  Eleven percent were neither in agreement or disagreement with the proposition, and 1 in 10 respondents thought that additional incentives would not be necessary top reach the proposed target (8% disagree, 2% strongly disagree).

Figure 1: Responses of 542 participants to the proposition that further incentives are required for New Zealand to have half or more of new vehicle registrations being EVs by 2025, August 2018.

What makes you click?

Many of you have mentioned the high purchase price as a current barrier to EV purchase or upgrade, and recognise that current incentives such as road user charge exemptions will disappear come 2021. Some referred to the success incentives have had in “other countries”, especially in Norway, as evidence that they would help flip New Zealand’s fleet.  Some also argued that incentives may be particularly needed in New Zealand because of the peculiarities of our vehicle market and sparse infrastructure.  For example, absence of local incentives leaves us dependant on external incentives (e.g. Japan) for affordable and therefore second-hand EVs.  Most differences of opinion about our overarching question related to differing views on supply and demand in the New Zealand vehicle market.

Supplies might well dry up if overseas incentives are removed, especially as EV uptake in those source countries increases demand for electric vehicles and reduces the number available for export.  Reliance on second hand imports will delay arrival of the newest and rapidly improving EV technology into New Zealand and have several unwanted consequences e.g. prolonging the “range anxiety” currently associated with earlier version EVs and reliance on lower-cost “battery” replacements to keep older EVs running. The tradition of keeping cars for much longer than in other countries means that flipping the fleet to EVs will be much slower in New Zealand unless incentives are mobilised to stimulate change. Encouraging New Zealanders to take up EVs might become all the more difficult without incentives if transition to EVs overseas triggers a flood of imports of even cheaper internal combustion vehicles (ICVs).

A few of you plugged the numbers and pointed out that even if EV registrations continue to double each year, we won’t reach the proposed target of half of new vehicle registrations being EVs by 2025. Some consider that doubling in itself may prove difficult: “it is relatively easy in these early years. But doubling the numbers from 16,000 to 32,000 is going to be tough, and 32,000 to 64,000 next to impossible when we discover the number of second-hand imports from Japan can’t supply the demand”. Our high proportion of rural population, current lack of charging infrastructure and limited EV range paired with our engrained vehicle purchasing habits convinces some respondents that ‘50% by 2025’ may prove an unreachable target.  Others considered it to be mainly a problem a lack of values, especially a lack of care for the environment, that will prevent demand for EVs beyond the current and relatively small group of early adopters.

Others were bothered by the proposed target itself.  One particularly forthright critic thought the target was “arbitrary”, “far too low” and sheer “tokenism” with the need to set “strong financial incentives such as feebates to encourage uptake”.  The current government target was considered a nonsense by some because it does not appear to relate to any proven rationale, capacity for change, or the minimum needed to reach other goals (similar comments were made by respondents to 1-click survey #5 https://flipthefleet.org/2017/nz-will-reach-its-target-of-64000-levs-by-2021-1-click-survey-5/). According to this logic, the target in our question was equally problematical.  One respondent called for “a coherent analysis on the costs and benefits of going slow versus fast in uptake and the necessary minimum to reach the Paris Agreement targets and national zero carbon goals by 2050”, as well as “an economist to determine the benefit to NZ” of powering fleets using NZ-produced electricity shows further research is warranted to see whether we can ‘rest assured’ that EV uptake will passively diffuse in time to meet national and global goals, or whether incentives are the push we need to pass the post.

A minority of you are confident the target is achievable regardless of EV incentives and that it will be surpassed in the next seven years: “[the question is] only talking about registrations.  2025 is 7 years away.  By then there should be a myriad of electric vehicles on the market at prices less than petrol/diesel alternatives”. Indeed, the 2018 EV Global Outlook predicts that EV market prices will match ICV equivalents by 2024. Some reckoned that EVs hold enough innate merit that they can be left to flood the market on their own, and that ICV taxes already seem sufficient. Knowledge that manufacturing costs will drop, battery replacement will become available, and a greater variety of EV models will soon be on the market has led some respondents to believe that uptake will happen quite naturally without the need for incentives.  One said: perhaps “we shouldn’t be wasting our money trying to make this happen sooner”. However, if incentives could help reduce emissions and vehicle running costs between now and this critical mass of uptake, certainly they deserve some consideration.

Industry and market incentives could also help resolve perceived current EV supply issues such as hefty price mark-ups (“the cost of a Holden volt started at 80k NZ but was half that in the US”), a lack of available models, inadequate support services, and low resale value (“try getting a trade in on a 2011, 9 bar Leaf”).  A lack of supply of EVs in the NZ-new market is was identified by many of you as the main constraint for national EV uptake, and correspondingly the need for local incentives to bring in such vehicles is urgent. The lack of supply of new EVs forces car dealers to make the most of second-hand EVs that come cheaper thanks to place-of-origin incentives. In return, Kiwis receive “no support, no new EVs, and no NZ New Used EVs”. Some of you thought that an added push for new EVs to enter New Zealand is urgently needed: There will be a huge competition for the new and relatively new second-hand EVs right round the world in the coming decade, made worse by our left-hand driving (smaller production runs). For adequate supply we need to incentivise import and purchase of new EVs as quickly as possible”.

One Flip the Fleet member suggests that car manufacturers and suppliers are making the most of growing global demand for EVs yet short local supply by keeping the cost of new EVs higher than they actually need to be: “All the hype about EVs is making newer cars too expensive. Dealers have found a cash cow for the rich”.

Irrespective of opinions about whether incentives are absolutely needed to reach our target, most of you believe that incentives are bound to increase their uptake: For some its simple maths e.g. “If petrol cars cost more than an EV, then people will buy an EV”. One EV owner believed the initial aid could even be made back by the government over time: “If the government subsidies the initial price, even if they then get that back via higher road user chargers, that could help also i.e. the total being paid is the same, just spreading the cost out, like a current petrol car”. Such direct financial incentives could help in two ways: “making them cheaper to buy at the start, but also by keeping the resale value up”.

A mix of direct and indirect ways of financially subsidising EVs emerged from your comments: (i) subsidise the import of new or near-new EVs ensuring a variety of models, (ii) providing indirect business incentives, (iii) make it mandatory for manufacturers and local suppliers to include electric drive trains in their fleets, and (iv) fund the start-up of EV repair and maintenance companies inclusive of staff training.  The latter training element is already underway as part of the government’s EV uptake investments over the next three years.

Feebates were by far the most attractive option for existing EV owners that responded to our poll. Some viewed them as “the fairest” incentive, and acknowledged their dual benefit of “penalising the threat (those gas guzzlers) and encouraging the solution (the EVs) for the same cost of administering the cross-subsidisation and at no net cost to the government”.  Extending the road user charge exemption beyond 2021 provides some certainty for encouraging investment in an EV and the consequent savings on running costs can drastically reducing the time required to pay off any loan required to purchase the EV.

Bumping up ICV taxes and petrol costs may seem appropriate mechanisms to some, but for others they were considered unfair because they penalise others i.e. such disincentives will also penalise our lower socioeconomic groups who are more likely to own the oldest, cheapest, and least efficient ICVs.  This risk can be minimised by smart choice of the size of the feebate.  For example, there are way more ICVs than EVs at the moment, giving scope for a small penalty on an ICV translating into a large benefit for an EV: “Maybe it could be as sharp as a 50 to one deal at first i.e. $100 extra on the registration of a banger transfers $5,000 to the purchaser of an EV. We could also apply the feebate just to the registration of new cars as they come into the country (i.e. either brand new of near new second-hand) rather than levy a feebate annually on all cars in NZ – then poorer families currently with an old car are not hurt, and anyone contemplating buying a new car has a more even choice between an EV and ICV”.  Obviously, equity in the EV purchasing process is important so that all New Zealanders “get to participate in a better way of travelling”.  Also, if EV uptake gains sufficient momentum, the cost of used ICVs is likely to drop, so poorer people may in fact be able to buy a cheaper ICV even if it has a feebate penalty imposed.

Some respondents drew attention to a need for regulation alongside incentives: “Subsidizing electric cars doesn’t always make them cheaper, only higher prices [and] more profit for the dealers. Same happened with the insulation of houses, when the subsidy on insulation got introduced, the prices increased with the same amount or more.” Although import and manufacturing subsidies would make New Zealand more competitive in the global EV procurement market, perhaps a current market analysis would be useful to ensure prices didn’t rise accordingly once subsidies were put in place.  The “free market” alone cannot necessarily deliver the desired outcome.

Several of you emphasized a need “to get business on board”. Tax exemptions for EV purchases by businesses “would potentially drive procurement [of new EVs] and accelerate trickle-down to private owners”. Targeting incentives towards businesses could also help to expand the availability of different EV models such as utes, station wagons and vans (eventually available to the public at more affordable second-hand prices) while ensuring we have more new EVs entering the New Zealand fleet.

The full range of incentives and disincentives and strategies for redistributing finances includes:

• Feebates
• Extended road user charge exemption beyond 2021 for EVs and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) to a lesser extent
• Free public charging (possibly via solar energy production atop public buildings)
• Extensive and reliable public charging infrastructure
• Subsidizing fast charger installations in public places, homes and workplaces, motor camps
• GST excluded from new EV purchases
• Additional tax on new ICV (petrol and diesel) purchases
• Reduced EV registration fees
• Adjusted Fringe-Benefit Taxes to make it more attractive for businesses to buy EVs
• Reduced electrical supply rates
• Free at-home charging from 12pm to 4am
• Lower insurance costs for EVs
• Transferring saved foreign fuel import costs to EV incentives
• Sliding scale of road user charges relative to efficiency/emissions of vehicle
• Different depreciation rates for tax write-offs (EVs > PHEVs, ICVs > PHEVs and EVs)
• Incentives to convert old ICVs to EVs (thereby creating jobs and decreasing waste)
• Mandated electric drive train option for all car manufacturers/suppliers
• Very low or zero interest loan schemes for EV purchase
• Health warnings featured on ICV promotional material e.g. TV advertisements
• Ban new ICE sales in 2025
• More stringent WOF checks for emissions
• Preferential lanes for EVs and banning/taxing ICV in cities

Successful and prolonged EV uptake will not just depend on financial incentives and regulation. Some of you think investing in education and infrastructure are “just as important as individual financial incentives”. Conversations with interested citizens reveal some “don’t understand they can charge at home on a 15 Amp plug”, and others are unaware of the current road user charge exemption and ACC levy reduction – even after they’ve bought an EV! Further promotion of EV lifestyle and driving benefits could be an additional channel funding flows into. Ensuring “infrastructure outpaces growth” was also mentioned as vital for achieving a steady uptake of EVs, with the belief that “more chargers are more incentive”.

Focusing on “Evolving” public transport fleets and investing in cycle and walkways were also pegged as ways government could help remove high emission vehicles from roads and set the EV scene. Public and active transport remain important pieces of the low-emissions challenge  e.g. considering that “1 person in an EV takes up as much road space and parking space as 1 person in an ICE [internal combustion engine vehicle], and much land, energy and materials goes into roads and parking spaces”.

Several of you believe stronger and more inclusive governmental regulations are required alongside incentives for EV uptake to be successful. The current need for business vehicles to present ANCAP ratings that meet health and safety guidelines – which are only available for new and not second-hand EVs – means businesses are excluding them as viable vehicles because they don’t “stack up from the accountant’s angle”. Meanwhile, “the Consumer Grantees Act is inadequate to protect buyers and without the full backing of the OEMs, the dealers are really vulnerable”.

Poor role-modelling has some of you off-side with our political leadership: “Government haven’t even incentivised their own departments to go EV, so why would Joe Blogs do it?”.

Action speaks loader than words. “If the New Zealand govt wants to actually have a “Clean Green New Zealand”, not just have the marketers tell the world that we do, it must put some money in to ensure we are actually as clean and green as we claim we are. Especially if it costs the govt nothing [in net terms, should a feebate be used]”.

Discussion and conclusions

The majority of New Zealand EV owners believe that financial incentives will be needed to reach a target of EVs making up 50% or more of new vehicle registrations in New Zealand by 2025. Certainly, there was a near unanimous assessment by the EV owners that incentives will undoubtedly accelerate uptake, even though a minority view remains that the target we nominated is attainable without them.  The majority view urging financial incentives is unlikely to be motivated by self-interest.  After all, the respondents to this survey already own an EV and the majority of them are overwhelmingly pleased about the decision to buy one (e.g. see 1-click surveys #15 https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-15/).  Rather, their judgement that financial incentives are needed, especially once the pool of early adopters is exhausted, is mainly based on repeated conversations with friends, family, colleagues and the media swirl that frequently challenges the EVs value proposition.  The testimony in this and other 1-click surveys (e.g. 1-click survey # 11, https://flipthefleet.org/2017/when-should-people-buy-first-ev/) complements and is consistent with the formal research commissioned by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority on why New Zealanders choose to buy, or not to buy an EV.  i.e. the most frequent barrier to purchase is that EVs were considered to be “Not available at an affordable price” (January to March 2018 survey).

Despite a majority asserting the need for incentives, some of you thought that we had the process backwards i.e. the target itself needs a shake-down to give it some meaning and make it worth shooting for.  Is half of new registrations by 2025 enough to reach our national goals and international commitments to keeping global warming below 2 degrees Celsius?  Is the target too modest (so it builds in mediocrity), or too ambitious (and so likely to turn people off)?  Targets only work to draw people on to improved performance if they a realisable and inspire added effort.  Targets will only inspire added effort if they are trusted and the reasons underlying their level are explained and understood – our experience is that EV owners generally do not know where the government’s current goal (to reach 64,000 EVs by 2021) comes from.  It is only fractionally above the previous growth in EVs seen before the target was erected. We strongly urge completion of a formal modelling exercise to erect a Specified, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realisable and Time delimited (‘SMART’) EV uptake target.  This can then be coupled to a cost-benefit analysis to ensure that New Zealand invests sufficient and an optimum level of public funds to ensure the target is reached.

We were struck by the variety and subtlety of the suggested methods for incentivising uptake. There were calls for financial incentives, subsidies, and prolonged tax exemptions could be made available to the public at large, but clear recognition that industry and business incentives may have a greater impact on purchase price, model availability, and proportion of NZ-new electric vehicles.  There were several warnings that ensuring supply of sufficient high-quality and improved EVs will get more difficult as other countries capture the available stock through direct incentivisation.  Slower substitution of existing ICV stock is likely in New Zealand because we traditionally retain vehicles much longer than owners in other countries.  This lag is likely to apply all the more to EVs because their maintenance and repair costs are so much lower than ICVs.  “Trickle down” of EVs to second and third owners in New Zealand is probably going to be even slower, so there is an urgent need to incentivise the landing of new EVs in New Zealand rather than relying on second-hand imports.

Although feebates was the most popular way to incentivise uptake, a whole package of different methods, include direct and indirect interventions, and both financial and non-financial  ways to get more New Zealanders to switch.  Improved regulation is needed alongside some of the incentivisation packages, partly to ensure that any public investment in EVs is actually transferred to the purchaser, but also to reduce looming risks from relying on second-hand imports of EVs.  More pro-active government leadership is required to hasten EV uptake in New Zealand.

Comments

Here’s a selection of the 233 comments we received from you this month, outlining the major themes and schemes you chose to share with us.  We’re oh so glad you did!

Incentives will help reach the target on time

“I think the EV message is getting through and the uptake will reach critical mass in time” • “need to make more of an impression on the minds of motorists before the break even point when the upfront costs of EVs become cheaper than comparable with those for ICEs” • “The planet cannot afford to wait…” • “We need strong financial incentives such as a feebate to encourage uptake” • “Either increased $ incentives or a significant increase in the range of everyday electric vehicles will be needed to achieve 50%. Or more likely a combination of both” • “Incentives will be required in heavy transport” • “Simple maths suggests that if we continue doubling the EV fleet every year until 2025 we are still going to fall short of having half our vehicles electric by this time, we need to more than double the EV fleet every year to hit this target so will need more incentives to do this”

We don’t need incentives or disincentives

“We are only talking about registrations.  2025 is 7 years away.  By then there should be a myriad of electric vehicles on the market at prices less than petrol/diesel alternatives” • “I do not believe government should subsidise EVs any more than they do at present.  EVs will become a greater proportion fleet when the price comes down due to improved manufacturing efficiencies, we shouldn’t be wasting our money trying to make this happen sooner” • “I’m not sure we will need to have the extra incentives. I believe Kiwis are taking up EVs rapidly and talking about their benefits often enough that the mood is moving quickly” • “I think the Petrol & Diesel motorists are already heavily taxed without having to pay out anymore to subsidise the uptake of EVs.” • “EVs need to be entering the marketplace & becoming more attractive/affordable on their own merits”

Even with incentives, it will be a struggle to reach the target

“We think it will happen without incentives anyway, but not in 7 years. We shall see …” • “Doubling the number of EVs year on year is relatively easy in these early years. But doubling the numbers from 16,000 to 32,000 is going to be tough, and 32,000 to 64,000 next to impossible when we discover the number of second-hand imports from Japan can’t supply the demand. Because second-hand imports are the major source of EVs contributing to the numbers.” • “I think that getting to 50% or above in NZ could be difficult because of NZ’s large rural population” • “Even the (otherwise welcome) extension of the recharging network will not be sufficient, in my opinion, to fully compensate for the downtime involved in charging as opposed to pulling into a petrol station and refilling in a fraction of the time” • “As our fleet is made up of mostly second hand Japanese imports we will lag behind Japan.  What they have today will probably be what we have in 2025, and that is probably not 50%+ EV’s” • “To my mind the 2025 new car plan is doomed to failure. Players like Nissan do not seem willing get on board. New car subsidies would be welcomed by dealers, but they will continue to price gouge and adoption will not increase much” • “With a lot of potential EV owners waiting until their preferred type of vehicle shows up in the market, that means someone who has an ideal car released in 2020-2021 will likely be in the market around 2023-2025.  That in itself makes it exceptionally unlikely that we will see a significant proportion of car sales in NZ be EVs until around that time, with the corresponding lag in total fleet-wide numbers that this will bring”

We should be aiming higher!

“The target is arbitrary and far too low.  It represents only a tiny fraction of the total car fleet in NZ.  Its tokenism..” • “

We need to encourage EV manufacturers into NZ

“We spend $8.4b a year importing ICE vehicles, a huge malinvestment. That’s a huge source of private money that could be better spent” • “Nissan and Mitsubishi pulled out of the EV market in NZ due to lack of financial incentives for new car purchase, because it is cheaper for people to import cars from countries where incentives are in place. This has left Kiwis with no support, no new EVs, and no NZ New Used EVs. Also no features such as NissanConnect” • “Incentives should focus on new vehicle industry, giving importers more buying power as nations compete for current lack of supply and models (so NZ doesn’t become a dumping ground for ICE’s and second-hand EVs)” • “As other countries transition, we are potentially going to be flooded with cheap combustion vehicles, so the competition between EVs and even cheaper ICVs will intensify.  What would happen to our national goals if say Japan or UK remove their current financial incentives to buy EVs and our supply of quality EVs dries up?  For adequate supply we need to incentivise import and purchase of new EVs as quickly as possible” • “better support service from NZ car companies” • “Used EV imports from Japan are affordable here thanks to subsidies and tax breaks that boost sales and turnover at home” • “To become mainstream EVs will need to start being sold by main NZ car dealers in large numbers but they can’t currently compete with the UK or Japanese imports. So they either sell very few (as cost is too high) or don’t sell them at all (thus keeping EV literacry supressed)”

High purchase price and poor industry support are stifling uptake

“All the hype about EVs is making newer cars too expensive. Dealers have found a cash cow for the rich” • “New car purchase prices are significantly higher than near new or as new s/h imports. Why would dealer networks (such as Nissan NZ) bother if they cannot compete on price?” • “Compare an ICE Hyundai Kona at $40K to the same Hyundai Kona EV at $74K, kind of hard to justify paying double for the “same car”” • “At the present time, the most economical path to EVs in New Zealand remains the Japanese 2nd-hand import market which naturally has a limited supply as well as dubious manufacturer support. The expand the pool in New Zealand requires an affordable new-car channel” • “Been looking at new vehicles on the market and even the basic ones are very expensive.” • “I do think there is another issue, which is the New Zealand branches of international vehicle companies overcharging for New Electric vehicles.  For example the cost of a holden volt started at 80k NZ but was half that in the US.  The new Nissan Leaf was 65k, but is less than 30k US.  There are other examples but I think you get the idea: New Zealand vehicle companies are being greedy.  Therefore we are relying on second hand cars for most of our EV imports.  Car manufacturers need to stop being greedy, and start selling for real prices not hyper-inflated prices.” •  “The 64kWh Hyundai Kona (leather seats) is priced in Norway at 335,900 NOK which is approx NZD $61,000 but is listed in NZ at $74,000.  Very expensive for such a small car.  Other government incentives will be needed to get over that price hump” • “I think people are still unsure about battery life and potential resale value” • “We could only afford to buy one because we’d paid off our house. If we still had a mortgage, we wouldn’t have the EV. I know they save money, but the reality is we needed a petrol car as well, so this is a second car, which is a luxury” • “Our 6 month old Zoe was imported from the UK and still cost $41K, double the cost of a brand new NZ-new similar sized petrol car (eg Honda Jazz) which would also have a 3 year manufacturer’s warranty”

Feebates are a “fair enough” trade-off

“Rebate schemes have had results overseas in giving the push required to get the market started. It would be fairly straightforward to implement such a scheme in New Zealand and even keep it revenue-neutral by adding a small ‘smoke tax’ on first registration of combustion engine vehicles which would be used to provide the rebate on EVs. At the present rate of ~2% new registrations being EVs, a $500 tax on 20 ICE vehicles would fund a $10K rebate on an EV with some money to spare. This would go a long way towards closing the price gap for new EVs vs. their conventional counterparts” • “Maybe if there is a feebate so that new ICE cars are made to be more expensive than electric cars for the New Car Market in New Zealand then it will be much easier to allow adoption. There won’t need to be much increase on ICE cars to lower the cost of Electrics to a good level.  Imagine only having to spend 30k for a new LEAF or Volt or Kona!  This won’t work so well for Tesla which have only electric vehicles” • “It won’t be popular – but it is necessary” • “Feebates are also excellent because they are a double-action intervention that joins penalising the threat (those gas guzzlers) and encouraging the solution (the EVs) for the same cost of administering the cross-subsidisation and at no net cost to the government” • “

Financial incentives are the way to go

“Financial incentives will help in two ways: making them cheaper to buy at the start, but also by keeping the resale value up” • “financial incentives needed to surpass capital investment purchase barrier, with NZ mindset currently negating “future savings” prospect of EV ownership” • “If petrol cars cost more than an EV then people will buy an EV” • “But as the total cost of ownership of an EV is basically in the initial price, then if the government subsidies the initial price, even if they then get that back via higher road user chargers, that could help also. i.e the total being paid is the same, just spreading the cost out, like a current petrol car.” • “I think people still fail to see the long-term gains and focus on the initial price tag.  As a consequence, they tend to purchase petrol cars rather than EVs due to the higher up-front cost for EVs.  Until some sort of parity is achieved on the initial price tag, EV uptake will remain sluggish” • “EVs are perceived as more expensive as petrol/diesel equivalents. The NZ govt should look to other countries – there’s only so many early adopters who will go EV without rebates. Once they’re all EV owners, there’s a lot of petrol heads that will need convincing” • “As rural residents, we’re looking forward to being able to buy a car that has a greater range, but they are too far out of our financial reach at the moment” • “Nothing drives someone to driving something else than seeing other people saving money or getting stuff for free” • “Any financial subsidy or incentive by Government will help [overcome this]. However any Government help must be reliable/certain…I have yet to see any reduction in the registration fee for my EV” • “I believe we should be putting in financial incentives for new and used cars arriving in the country. This really only starts to bring us in line with what other more forward thinking countries are doing”

Disincentives will trump incentives

“Disincentives in place of EV incentives put forth to unwed ICE owners from their gas-guzzlers: “I think there’s too much investment in ICE cars and too many people still wedded to big cars to achieve the goal. Disincentives are needed here” • “There needs to be modest incentives to make EVs more attractive to those wavering on a decision, and very strong disincentives to prod the stubborn status quo ICE owners to convert to EVs. People need to be jolted out of their comfort zones” • “However, if the price of petrol was inflated sufficiently high, we would have bought an electric, and hired the occasional petrol car when needed. It’s simple economics – we are resistant to change, then price of our existing option goes up and up, then we change” • “Being pedantic:  Norway didn’t give incentives for EVs, it gave DIS-incentives to buy fossil cars.  I think this is easier to sell to the public”

Fringe Benefit Tax needs a shake-down

“FBT needs urgent overall.  At the moment pool vehicles incur FBT at a rate set by the purchase cost of the most expensive vehicle in the fleet.  Why should a business start substituting even a few ICVs if they then have to pay higher FBTs across the board?  At the other extreme, we could instead levy the FBT against the residual value of the ICV that the new EV replaced” ● “I agree with a Feebate, FBT and GST exemption like in Tahiti (no import duty for EVs)” ● “Making EVs the vehicle of choice of businesses would be greatly helped by the removal or suspension of FBT for personal use by giving decision makers access to and experience of EVs”

Business incentives could create further trickle-down rewards

“Allowing different depreciation rates for tax write-offs (EVs higher than PHEVs, and PHEVs higher for ICVs) would potentially drive procurement by businesses and accelerate trickle-down to private owners.  This would perhaps be the fastest way to trigger change and create the market for new EVs” • “the key is to get business aboard” • “Fear is businesses are targeted through tax exemptions, then money used by government elsewhere”

Lack of support of used EV imports by dealers

“The real adoption elephant in the room is the negative attitude of a number of the big vehicle dealers and the lack of support network. Cockram Nissans behaviour springs to mind. Buyers of new EVs currently pay a massive premium for new cars in NZ, second hand cars are not holding value (try getting a trade in on a 2011, 9 bar leaf) and after market support is woeful (good luck trying to get even a software updates for as Japanese import car from Cockrams, let alone a battery replacement)”

Prolong the RUC exemptions!

“No RUCs could mean the difference in paying the car off in 5 years compared to 10 years”

We will need more than just incentives to keep increasing uptake

“Especially as currently we don’t have sufficient infrastructure for them to be the sole family vehicle (for long trips as well) so households tend to view them as the “second” car.” • “People I talk to don’t understand they can charge at home on a 15 watt plug” • “I don’t think it is widely known that there are currently no RUC and that Acc levy is reduced – I certainly didn’t.” • “More chargers are more incentive” • “As battery capacity in EV’s gets larger it is going to take longer to recharge and more EV’s on the road is going to put more pressure on the charging infrastructure. We travel to Dunedin with our Nissan Leaf and in the past year we now have to wait every time to recharge the car for our return trip home to Oamaru. The charging station behind the Town Hall needs an immediate up grade, access is also difficult. We are going to start using our petrol car again for trips to Dunedin as it is now taking too long to recharge” • “Rather than incentives I think focus needs to be on ensuring that infrastructure outpaces growth so that there is plenty of capacity to meet growth rather than it becoming a barrier” • “Existing advertising is skewed 99.9% in favour of ICE cars, large SUV and trucks in particular” • “There needs to be much more mainstream and positive publicity from established sources to convince NZs petrol and diesel heads to change” • “I think a big factor in getting the public to take up electric vehicles for personal use is that they know they can charge easily – whether it is from home infrastructure (eg. solar panels & battery storage being implemented at home and possibly subsidised from Government) or charging stations more visible in many towns and cities” • ““a fleet of EV’s is not necessarily the answer to transport and energy, as 1 person in an EV takes up as much road space and parking space as 1 person in an EV, and much land, energy and materials goes into roads and parking spaces. More public transport, cycleways and pedestrian friendly towns needs to be encouraged”

Incentives must ensure social equity

“There is a potential equity issue: if the cheaper high emissions vehicles get all the more expensive because of feebates, poorer families will be indirectly paying part of the cost of low emission vehicles purchased by more wealthy families. A lot depends on how any feebate is scaled – there are so many more combustion vehicles being registered than EVs, that any charge on the ICVs can be relatively modest and still deliver a hefty bonus to defray the purchase cost of the EV.  Maybe it could be as sharp as a 50 to one deal at first i.e. $100 extra on the registration of a banger transfers $5,000 to the purchaser of an EV.  We could also apply the feebate just to the registration of new cars as they come into the country (i.e. either brand new of near new second-hand) rather than levy a feebate annually on all cars in NZ – then poorer families currently with an old car are not hurt, and anyone contemplating a buying a new car has a more even choice between an EV and ICV” • “Most Kiwis can’t afford new cars – or even, a good second-hand one.  So, the poorer you are, the more likely you are to be stuck with (at best) an old, unsafe, expensive to run car.  We not only need financial incentives – we need to support the poorer car owners into EV ownership so that they too get to participate in a better way of travelling.  I have literally been approached in a supermarket car park by a young man saying, “Lucky you – I really need a car like yours – I have to travel to see my sick mother so often and it costs too much” • “Also, there needs to be assistance to ensure that the electric/ICE divide does not simply become another poverty trap with those least able to change getting burdened with increasing fuel costs” • “While incentives would help, it is effectively benefiting those that can afford an EV, while penalising those that are cannot”

Government needs to lead by example and facilitate through policy

“Government haven’t even incentivised their own departments to go EV so why would Joe Blogs do it?” • “No ANCAP ratings on cheap EV imports mean Health and Safety people exclude them so fleets only choice is very expensive new ones. New doesn’t stack up from the accountants angle. How about govt drives H&S people to rate clean air for all as a bigger safety concern than ticking ancap boxes for an already very safe car” • “We really need a coherent analysis on the Costs and Benefits of going slow versus fast in uptake and the necessary minimum to reach the Paris Agreement targets and national zero carbon goals by 2050” • “Regulation must be considered alongside financial incentivisation as well.  Frankly the Consumer Grantees Act is inadequate to protect buyers and without the full backing of the OEMs, the dealers are really vulnerable. Poor after-sales service of EVs of imported second-hand poses large risks to our EV uptake in NZ.  So we’ll need stronger regulation alongside financial incentivisation to bring more EVs in new with proper after sales service and battery replacement infrastructure and service” • “the NZ Government is just coat-tailing on the subsidies offered by Japan to stimulate the market for EVs.” • “Government is well aware that price incentives work.  Examples such as taxation on cigarettes are evidence of this.  If the government are serious about their emissions targets incentives should be introduced to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles.” • “It would be nice if the government could twist NissanNZs arm strongly to provide reasonable support for the current flood of Nippon-New LEAFs presently being bought in droves” • “If the New Zealand govt wants to actually have a “Clean Green New Zealand”, not just have the marketers tell the world that we do, it must put some money in to ensure we are actually as clean and green as we claim we are. Especially if it costs the govt nothing” • “Money spent on NZ made Electricity vs imported oil at ~ 8 billion dollars per year. We need an economist to determine the benefit to NZ to keep money in NZ” • “If NZ is keen to promote the 100% Pure image (do we still do that?) then surely world leading zero emissions credentials would be a draw card?” • “Rather see Govt focus on replacing the worst polluters, e.g. old buses and trucks and get those off the roads and replaced by alternatives or at least less polluting models”

Without local incentives, our EV market is shaped by other countries’

“New Zealand doesn’t traditionally have a strong new car market, which means availability and range of vehicles are limited to what is available on the 2nd hand market” • “We currently get second-hand incentives due to the initiatives in UK and Japan that are passed to us via cheaper used imports. Imagine the uptake of EVs if these incentives were first hand from NZ government on new EVs!” • “Variety of incentives have increased uptake, at least in the short term to aid the early adopters. Several countries saw initial boost in EV purchase which is now tapering off (likely reached the late adopters and laggards stage of diffusion – perhaps only price equality will sway them and maybe not even then!)” • “The supply of used EVs to import could change significantly if demand from buyers from other countries increases. It appears that Australia has just added used Leafs and e-NV200s to their allowable import list, and already one importer has multiple units for sale. If demand from Aussies takes off like it has here, then we could see much higher used Leaf prices and less choice…”

Early adopter vs majority motives

“I have a hybrid Outlander and very pleased with it. Also solar panels to reduce the cost of recharging the battery. However, both involved expensive investment and I made it because I felt that I had to contribute somehow to reducing my carbon footprint; the economic case was weak and even today remains so.. I am sure many people face the same disincentive” • “At present you really have to want an EV for other reasons and be prepared to pay heavily for it, which is a clear obstacle to wider uptake” • “After the early adopters the next cohort will require stronger incentives” • “We are still in the “innovator”/”early adopter” phase of electric mobility. Early adopters are prepared to accept the high purchase price and current limitations of EVs because the environmental benefits and other advantages out-weight these limitations. However, achieving a target of 50% of new vehicle registrations by 2025 means we would need to move NZ into the “early majority” phase and this will be a big challenge” • “Current benefits are passive – e.g. reduced fuel and maintenance costs. This motivates early adopters, but to get early majority and late majority (as per diffusion of innovation curve), active benefits would drive uptake of EVs faster”

Awaiting new models could slow uptake

“With EVs being so new there are very few options available with big gaps in the range (SUVs, trucks/utes, large family sedans/wagons etc.) where nothing is really offered.  This will change in the future, but affordable availability here will be 3-5 years behind the primary markets” • “As the early generation Leaf’s age, they will be exported from Japan with increasing fervour, and of course we’ll snap them up because it’s all we can afford.”

Hannah Gentle, Henrik Moller, Monica Peters, Dima Ivanov and Daniel Myall

27 August 2018

Your take-home messages:

Only a third of EV owners follow best practice guidelines of checking tyre pressures at least once a month.  The remainder are likely to experience reduced range on full charge, reduced energy economy (km/kWh) while driving and increased tyre wear. In extreme cases, driving safety may be compromised.  Low rolling resistance tyres will extend range.  There is a need for effective educational campaigns to improve tyre care practices amongst both EV and Internal Combustion Vehicle owners in New Zealand.

This month’s poll:

We wanted to collect information on what tyres are currently out there, how often their inflation pressure is checked and adjusted, and what drives tyre replacement choices. Our aim was to help make your tyre decisions easier when it’s time to replace, and to share some hot tips on best pressure practice to delay that need for replacement as long as possible.

Accordingly, our twenty-first 1-click survey began by asking respondents to choose between five options to complete the following statement: “On average, I check and adjust my tyre pressure”

1. Weekly
2. Monthly
3. A few times a year
4. Once a year
5. Never, my mechanic does it

Respondents could then add comments and provide answers to five open-ended supplementary questions:

1. “What determines your frequency of checking tyre pressures?”
2. “How do you decide what pressure to use?”
3. “Compared to your current/previous Internal Combustion Vehicle, has your frequency of checking tyre pressures changed? And if yes, how?
   • About the same
   • Less often
   • More often
   • Other
4. “What sort of tyres do you have on your EV?”
   • Known brand
   • Unknown brand, but factory-fitted/originals
   • Unknown brand, but low rolling resistance/eco tyres
   • Other
5. “What determined your choice of tyres?”

The poll was sent to 889 participants in Flip the Fleet on 25 May 2018. We received 512 responses by 13 July 2018 and 368 of them included detailed comments and answers to at least one of the five supplementary questions.

Frequency of checking and adjusting tyre pressure

About a third (36%) of EV owners check and if necessary adjust their tyre pressure at least each month, the recommended frequency to maximise energy efficiency and safety.  Over half of respondents (58%) checked and adjusted their own tyre pressure a few times or just once a year. Around 6% indicated they never checked or adjusted tyres themselves, leaving it to their mechanic to do it

Figure 1.  Frequency of checking tyre pressure by electric vehicle owners.  The percentages were calculated from 512 responses from throughout New Zealand in July 2018.

Many of the owners that check their tyres most regularly have: (i) a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS ) on their dashboard or receive a similar warning signal through LeafSpy; (ii) have set up routine tyre checks, and (iii) are particularly aware of how tyre pressure can affect range, road grip, and tyre longevity. Examples of comments include “I have a reading available on my dashboard”; “Sunday is car check day!”; and “Knowing the importance of increased drag from under-inflated tyres on reducing EV range”.  For one respondent, a known slow leak keeps them on their toes and checking daily, while a monthly checker has “been surprised by how they often need inflating a little depending on the weather”. Several are conscious of the fact that “there is no spare tyre in the car” and this fear drives monthly checks.  For others, “memory” is sparked and “whim” moments are enough to keep up the monthly checks.

It’s good to know Flip the Fleet is helping up the pressure ante for some of you! “I read your discussion article that pointed to tyre pressure being an important factor in optimising the performance of an EV. I have found that in 1 month the pressure drops by 3-4 PSI, so I top up the pressure monthly”.  This person will have been responding to our small survey of Dunedin EV tyre pressures that was conducted during a community experiment to test the effects of load on efficiency (https://flipthefleet.org/2017/many-us-inflated-tyres/).

Drivers who checked tyres just “a few times a year” and “once a year” relied more on random thoughts and on chance times becoming available to check their tyres. Many are more likely to check tyres before going on a long trip. Additional indicators that lead to pump-up action include “visible squish” of the tyres, a “go by feel and decide from there” approach, or a “change in season temperatures”.

Two owners had filled their tyres “with nitrogen which holds the pressure better than air”.  This may well be true but we don’t know of any peer-reviewed, scientific evidence to suggest a benefit in doing so.

“Never” responders mostly relied on their service providers or TPMS to ensure tyre pressure remained adequate. One even managed to merge the two! “There is a flat tyre indicator – I do it when it tells me – the car is “the mechanic” in this case”.

Do EV owners check their tyres more than ICV owners?

Frequency of tyre checking hadn’t changed since switching from a conventional combustion vehicle (ICV) to an EV for 60% of participants (Figure 2).   However, more than three times of the remainder increased the frequency of checking tyres compared to those that check their EV’s tyres less frequently than they used to when they owned an ICV.  Amongst the ‘Other’ responses (3%), some hadn’t owned their EV long enough to be sure: “Only had car over 1 month. Not checked tyre pressure yet”.

Figure.2 Changes in frequency of tyre checks for electric vehicles compared to Internal Combustion Vehicles (ICVs).  Percentages are based on 346 choices to Question C, July 2018.

Comments suggest that many EV owners apply the “same principles as any car”, although some admit they are consistently “still slack” and others noted there were “more reminders visiting petrol stations and seeing the air filling stations” which made it easier to remember to check air pressure. Some check their tyres “about the same, though [I] recognise that tyre pressure has a greater bearing on efficiency”. This suggests that some owners lack motivation rather than education to follow best practice.

Many EV owners place considerable trust in the onboard instruments that warn them when they need to inflate the tyres. These Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) make frequency irrelevant: “It is done as required by the car” because the instruments warn when additional air is required. Others said: “Yes, I only probably checked my tyre pressure twice a year, if that. I only did it if I thought the tyres looked a bit down. Leaf Spy has changed all that. It is so easy now because of the prompt if the tyres go below my set pressure”; “Yes. It is the first time I have had a car with TPMS”; “the TPMS changes my tyre management “from a casual look to actual gauging”; and “Now there is no need to check, as car should indicate”.

Range anxiety and a wish to reduce wear and tear motivate some EV owners to increase their frequency of checking tyres: “I probably check it more because I know we would get more range on properly inflated tyres”; “Yes. I have less mileage with my battery range and I like to maximise it. I was less inclined to keep my tyre pressure checked with petrol vehicle I guess I didn’t think about so much!”; and to “reduce wear and tear”.

Range has, however, also featured as a reason for checking tyre pressure less often in EVs: “Yes, it got worse – with our ICE, at least, I checked before road trips. Now we’re really bad...”.  Many owners transfer most of their local travel to an EV and use their second car, an ICV, for the longer trips (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-20/). As some are far less worried about the effect of tyre pressure on these shorter trips, the EV tyres tend to be neglected: “Yes, haven’t had to check yet and won’t be able to do any long trips due to the range of the car”.

Visits to petrol stations to refuel causes some owners to check their EV’s tyres more, but others less so: “With the Prius I’d always intend to do it while getting petrol and then run out of time. Now as it’s the only thing I have to use the petrol station for I’m actually better about doing it”; “I do it less often on my EV. Tyre pressure on garage forecourts are for paying customers. I don’t pay for petrol”; and “I check much less as now need to make dedicated trip to petrol station”

New EV owners showed a similar mixed response, with one checking “Less as I have more confidence in a newer car”, while another’s checks were “much more frequent, especially as the car is less than a year old”.

“How do you decide what pressure to use?”

What were your thoughts on the ideal tyre pressure? Most tend to agree with following the manufacturer guidelines: “Nissan states 36 psi and they know best since they designed it – why risk sliding in slippery conditions for the gain of a couple of kms?”. The door panel and “owner’s manual” were both ports of call for finding tyre pressure information. Taking into account opinions around tyre pressure and driving efficiency, some participants still couldn’t be swayed: “Door sticker 250/2.5 (35psi). Aware of lots of debate but decided to stick with manufacturers recommendation”; “Manufacturers specs. I prefer a slightly softer ride being in Christchurch with our munted roads. It’s kinder on me and my suspension”.

Several EV owners use the manufacturer’s recommendations as a starting point, but then pump the tyres anywhere between 1 and 5 psi higher: “I go by the book and add a couple of psi. Harder ride but lower rolling resistance and less tire wear. I usually set it to about 40psi in summer”; “rule of thumb is 2 psi above the recommended values. NZ’s coarse-chip roads require a higher pressure”; “5 psi above recommended to give time between refills and to increase efficiency”.

A handful of owners have decided to max out, going with “maximum pressure written on tyre (44Psi)”. Beware a burst! Others have determined their own ‘max’ through trial and error to find their efficiency-safety sweet spot: “Always run around 45psi. Max I can go without causing it to be slippery in the wet”.

Online research helps many owners to decide what pressure to use. Participants look up online manuals, consult EV blogs, interact with Facebook forums, Google for answers and delve into the depths of YouTube: “I watched a YouTube which showed the way to work out what pressure to use”; “Web searched. Included weight factor. Picked 42-45. Noticeably better efficiency in summer”; “I forget so ask Facebook”.

Trial and error, habitual inflation levels, implementing in-person pressure advice, and mixed method approaches rounded out responses. Some found clarity in consulting various information sources: “Manufacturer’s recommendation, adjusted for Internet wisdom & wear observations”; “Some combination of internet opinion moderated by what I think is safe”; “Manufacturer recommendation and experience combined”; “Manufacturer plus NZ EV Facebook discussion”, while others encountered uncertainty: “Advice, BUT EV mechanics advise 40 psi and tyre mechanics advise 32-34 psi”; “I will usually add a couple pf Psi though knowing that it drops with time – also a US blog I read had people pumping them way over (up to 42 psi) to get improved efficiency (reduced rolling resistance). I would like to know if this is safe”.

Your choice of tyres

Just under half (46%) of responders knew which specific brand of tyres they had on their EV (155 of 336 responses, Figure 3). For those that did not know the brand, 7% of all responders mentioned “eco” or “low rolling resistance” as a key tyre feature, while another 22% stated they didn’t know because they were still using the original or factory-fitted tyres that came with the EV at purchase. The remaining 24% were unsure of the brand of tyres on their EV, and did not provide any further information.

Figure.3 Types of tyres fitted to electric vehicles in New Zealand.  The percentages are calculated from 336 responses to Question D, July 2018.

The presence of original tyres among the fleet was highlighted in the final survey question about the deciding factor when choosing a tyre brand (Figure 4). Most participants stated that they hadn’t had to change tyres yet (69%).  Amongst the remaining 101 responses, while those that had needed to replace tyres were driven by performance, recommendations of the manufacturer, and to a lesser extent the cost or perceived value (Figure 4).  ‘Other’ reasons for choosing a certain brand included loyalty to a favoured brand: “Have always run Bridgestone tyres on all my cars”; “Default to existing status quo”, while some just wanted tyres that did the job: “I have no preference for tyres, except I prefer unpunctured ones…”. The remaining Other responses included “Not applicable”, or leaned towards the decision being an externalised one: “I did not choose”; “I have not selected it”; “previous owner”.

Amongst the half (46%) of you who knew the brand of tyre currently on your EV, most had Bridgestone (stated in 90 responses) tyres, with Dunlop (19 responses), Goodyear (15 responses) and Michelin (13 responses) being less common. The remaining 12% of known brands included Haida (1), Kumho (3), Firestone (1), GT (1), Nitto (1), Nexen (1), Toyo (2), Continental Contisport (1), HiFly (1), Yokohama (3), and Sunfull (1).

Many respondents expressed little interest in the type of tyre they run, or were unable to check at the time of the survey: “Round ones (came with car too lazy to check)”; “The ones that came with it (it’s raining, sorry!)”; “Can’t respond – away from home”; “Factory 2011 tyres from Japan. No idea what they are. They pass WOF, who cares”.

As 69% of participants are still on their original tyres, many have not yet had to confront the choice of what to replace them with. e.g. “UK fitted, never looked”; “Manufacturers recommended – haven’t changed tyres yet from new – 40 000kms and counting.  Some have replaced half of the original tyres or are contemplating a tyre change soon: “Original Nissan Leaf 2016 on the back, energy efficient Goodyear Assurance front”; “We just put 2 Sunfull tyres on the front recently”; “Came with Dunlop Enasave EC300. But likely to change to Bridgestone Ecopia soon”.

Even if exact brand wasn’t known, 7% of participants showed umbrella knowledge of desirable tyre properties, giving statements like: “some sort of eco tyres or better”. “Low rolling resistance” also featured several times, with one survey responder planning to “change to all low [rolling] resistance at next renewal”. So even if the brand evaded people’s memories, they picked up on the efficiency, and environmentally conscious aspects of their tyres.

For the remaining 24% who were unsure of the brand of tyres on their EV, feedback didn’t extend far beyond “good ones”, “standard” ones, and “Black ones, inflatable, made of rubber”. Interesting enough, 80% of those responding with Unsure to the tyre brand question checked their own tyres ‘A few times a year’ or less often.

Figure 4. Reasons governing the choice of tyres fitted to New Zealand electric vehicles. Percentages are based on 101 categorisations of responses to open Question E after exclusion of 228 respondents who were still using the tyres that came with the EV at purchase, July 2018.

Factors most affecting new tyre choice included perceived value for money: “Value (mileage vs price)”; “Price. Some eco tires OTT with pricing”; “I never buy the cheapest ones”, along with tyre performance attributes: “Balance between grip and low rolling resistance”; “Durability and quiet tread design”, and whatever was recommended by those in the know: “Mechanic said they were as good as Ecopia for half the price”; “EV forum recommendations”; “International reviews”. With so few of you having to make these decisions to date, it will be interesting to see if one of the above factors begins to edge away from the others in the future.

Some EV owners that are still running on the original tyres are already thinking ahead and forecasted their preferred tyre options in their responses – that’s great!  When it comes time to replace, these participants will “opt for “fuel-saver” tyres, since I have found them to be extremely effective on my petrol car”; “get good quality tyres. I never bothered with my old petrol car because it was on its last legs so I just got cheap tyres”, and base decisions upon “lowest rolling resistance that gives the safest ride”. One participant is very well prepared for their pending replacement: “Have some eco tyres to try next – Hankook Nanotech 3 which I scored cheap off Trademe. Same size as current tyres. Will also fit on lighter rims though”.

Some owners plan to stick to the same tyre out of habit, trust, or brand loyalty: “Have always run Bridgestone tyres on all my cars”; “I wanted original tyres as I assumed they might be designed to maximise efficiency”; “likely to keep with brand/type as at 58,000 km they still have good tread”.

Others wanted to mix it up a bit now that their vehicle purpose and priorities had changed: “Next tyres won’t consider rolling resistance since range is not a consideration. Instead I will go for safety, longevity and quiet”; “According to MacFarlane’s Tyre Centre, snow tyres are hard to get and more expensive, so they fitted low-rolling resistance tyres instead (Goodyear Assurance TripleMax 205/55 R16). They predict a noticeable rise in energy efficiency. It is very noticeable that the car is much quieter on the road – there is way less wheel rumble”.

We’ve got to say, this comment kind of made our day: “New tyres were already on the car when bought, but I got them aligned just in case not done already”. Now that’s attention to detail!

Discussion and conclusions

Why is tyre pressure important?

Government, industry, online, and academic resources all highlight the importance of keeping tyres pumped and primed to increase maximum range, save on fuel, and preserve tread for both ICVs and EVs (Table 1).  For example, one commentator stated: “Underinflated tires decrease fuel economy, shorten tread life, have less lateral traction and longer stopping distances, are prone to stress damage, and are more vulnerable to flat tires – all of which increase the risk of vehicle accidents/rollovers.”¹  The studies vary considerably in their predictions of the size of loss in efficiency from low tyre pressure – in one study a 17% increase in fuel consumption is predicted from extremely underinflated tyres.  Increased load increases the penalty on efficiency.

It is also important to keep the tyres well-aligned and to rotate the tyre positions to even out wear.

Having the right tyre pressure is also important for your safety because braking distances are extended if the tyres are flat, especially in wet weather.

Table 1: Reasons for maintaining correctly inflated and well-aligned tyres.

Sources of this information are listed in the reference section at the end of this report.

Oduro et al. note the importance of keeping tyre pressure exactly at or near to vehicle manufacturer recommendations: “For passenger vehicles and light trucks, the tyres should be inflated to what the vehicle manufacturer recommends, which is usually located on a decal just inside the driver’s door, or in the vehicle owner’s handbook. Tyres should not be inflated to the pressure on the sidewall; this is the maximum pressure, rather than the recommended pressure”².  This is recommended because both over inflation and under inflation distort the wheel’s shape – affecting fuel efficiency, handling, and resulting in uneven tread wear as shown in the following diagram:

Correct inflation promotes efficient and safe motoring in all vehicle types, but it is particularly important for EVs because it allows you to achieve your maximum range and overcome “range anxiety” (Table 1).

Justin Edgington, Training and Business Development Manager for Tyreline, kindly shared the below graphic with us. It shows the effect of low tyre pressure on braking distance, fuel efficiency and tyre wear and tear by comparing tyres pumped to 35 psi with those progressively underinflated (32, 28 and 25 psi)³. Of interest is the headline “You can’t tell by looking”, which may speak to those who stated they look for “visible squish” as a cue to pump up your tyres.

Justin Edgington also commented on the equal risks associated with tyre over inflation: “It is a known fact that over inflated tyres are more prone to damage, punctures and offer less grip in all conditions. Tyres that are already overinflated increase in pressure when in use to way beyond the manufacturers pressure which is not safe”. Bill Prebble, Head of Technical and Product at Goodyear Dunlop Tyres NZ,  also cautions people using tyre pressures above 40 psi, which some of you stated was your current efficiency optimisation tactic: “at higher tyre pressures, the enveloping power of the tread and belt package is reduced, making tyres more vulnerable to damage by impact and more liable to punctures. Additionally, because high tyre pressures alter the steering response and lateral grip curves, drivers may find tyre performance less predictable when higher grip levels are called for, such as in evasive or emergency situations”.

In fact, Justin Edgington quite rightly pointed out that maintaining tyre pressure within the manufacturer’s guidelines is a legal requirement in New Zealand:“NZ roads laws say that the tyres must be inflated as per the manufacturers (vehicle) recommendation. We are aware that most NZ motorists are unaware of this law”.

What about tyre rotation?

Rotating tyres from front to back or side to side is another aspect of tyre care that can prolong their safe driveable life (see Table 1). Bill Prebble and Justin Edgington both agree that although “technically there is no essential reason to rotate if all tyres are wearing evenly”, one might consider doing as part of an economically viable tyre maintenance plan. Bill notes that: “If all tyres are wearing uniformly, then the decision to rotate or not is often decided based on whether the consumer wants to replace tyres in pairs or full sets of four, so the decision is often generated by economics / personal affordability”.

According to Justin, tyre “rotations should be carried out whenever an abnormal pattern develops on the tyres – conditions such as saw tooth wear and heel and toe wear along with feathering or scaling all indicate it’s time to rotate. Sloped wear and other visible signs can show the drivers that attention is needed. On some vehicles you can even hear an acoustic hum and in extreme cases a vibration can develop if a rotation is needed”. Bill adds that “while tyre rotation may “even out” some of the irregular wear, it is important to understand and rectify the root cause, and thereby extend the mileage potential of future replacement tyres”.

So how do we know when the time is right for rotating the tyres? A problem Justin Edgington has identified is “that our industry simply applies an arbitrary time or mileage (typically 10,000 kms) whereas in fact it depends on the type of vehicle, vehicle settings and geometry, power, drivetrain, use, power and individual driving style, all of which differ for everyone.  Therefore, it is foolish to suggest a timescale when irreparable damage can be done way before the rotation becomes due”. He uses “New Zealand’s most popular vehicle”, the Ford Ranger as the example, stating: “they generally need a rotation in as little as 3000-5000kms depending on the use and geography”. However, “if regular rotations are undertaken, huge increases in potential tyre mileage can be achieved”.  Given that many other car elements have rapidly progressed yet the tyre recommendations have not changed it’s time for some education and training programmes to update people’s practices and recommendations.

Are we taking technology for granted?

Neglect of tyres may be part of a much bigger problem of people just taking modern technology for granted.  While modern cars of all sorts require much less maintenance than older cars, an EV with its reduced working parts and highly complex electronic monitoring systems may be encouraging a more lax view on (tyre) maintenance displayed by Flip the Fleet survey responders.

Certainly, the survey showed that many owners are pretty oblivious about their tyres.  When asked what sort of tyres they used or preferred, many couldn’t say. Others answered “round ones”, “black ones” and “ones without a puncture”.  Some replied “who cares” or admitted that “pure laziness” prevented them from checking their tyres often enough.  But smarter owners realised the importance of the tyres for vehicle efficiency and targeted low rolling resistance brands.

As for those using their TPMS as the ‘be all and end all’ for receiving alerts, Justin Edgington cautions against sole reliance on this technology for maintaining optimum tyre pressure. In line with Bill Prebble’s advice, Justin recommends even with TPMS to check tyres monthly. “TPMS systems are not infallible either so to keep safe, check tyres regularly”.

Are many EVs driven on under-inflated tyres?

According to Bill Prebble, “while tyre maintenance on internal combustion vehicles is important, the maintenance and selection of tyres on EV’s is critical to the safe and efficient performance of the vehicle”.   We shared results from this 1-Click survey question with Bill, who suggested that “the [Flip the Fleet] respondents are better [at checking their tyres] than the average New Zealander by far”.

This is encouraging and it fits with the results in Figure 2 that show around a third of EV owners now check tyres more often!  But there is still quite a way to go before our tyre care is up to scratch. Best practice is to check and adjust tyre pressure every month, and according to our 1-Click survey, only a third of EV owners currently meet this recommendation.

There are few studies that report the average levels of inflation on cars in service in New Zealand.  However, tyre pressure is known to gradually decrease at around 1 to 2 psi per month if left unattended (https://www.energywise.govt.nz/on-the-road/tyre-pressure/).  Our survey suggests that around two thirds of owners check their tyres no more often than once every six months or even less.  Some of the more aware owners inflate their tyres slightly above recommended levels when they do check, so we do not expect that the full two thirds of tyres will be underinflated, but many will be.  A recent but small survey of Dunedin EV owners confirms this concern – around half (54%) of the tyres on 19 Leafs that took part in Flip the Fleet’s efficiency experiment on 25 November were inflated below the recommended ‘cold tyre’ pressure of 36 psi (https://flipthefleet.org/2017/many-us-inflated-tyres/).  One of those tyres had a pressure of 25 psi, around 30% less than recommended.  There is a need for a much larger and systematic study of tyre pressures used by EV owners before the prevalence of under-inflated tyres can be better quantified.  Bill Prebble reports that the last systematic studies of tyre pressures in New Zealand were conducted in the early 1990s and so are unlikely to still apply.  In the meantime our preliminary survey suggests real cause for concern and highlights the value of more educational campaigns to improve owner practices.  The material provided by EECA’s ‘Energywise’ website, and other websites cited in the reference list below  is excellent, but clearly it is not getting through to many vehicle owners.

Infrequent checking of tyres may be less about participant knowledge of tyre pressure benefits and more about mustering the motivation to check: “The Dunedin EV group checked tyre pressures at the start of one of our community experiments and found a lot were way lower than recommended – but even with that wake-up call (last November) I haven’t increased my checking frequency”.  There is a clear need to raise awareness and encourage routine and habitual checking as a normal part of EV maintenance.

Overall then, participants commonly seek pressures between 35 and 45 psi. Industry advice directs EV owners to stick to recommended tyre pressure or at most, go 2 psi above this amount, but some greatly exceed these guidelines. We strongly recommend that this practice stops.

Many New Zealanders are still coasting along on their original EV tyres.  The kilometres travelled in New Zealand will soon stack up and the earliest model Leafs (2011) are still being imported, with increasing miles travelled and their original tyres fitted.  Overall, responses to our questions highlight just how young our EV fleet is.  Looming large scale tyre turnover is something we should all be aware of and begin preparing for.  It also means now is a great time for Flip the Fleet and others to get some useful tyre information out and about! We’ve made a start in the recommendations section below.

Summary and recommendations:

Tyre pressure checks and adjustments currently aren’t high enough on our priority list, with many leaving it up to memory or whim, tyre misshape, a sub-par driving experience, or their next service check to trigger action.  Our survey suggests that many EV owners have under-inflated tyres.  We urge you to follow the recommendations in Table 2 – your car, tyres, wallet and environment will thank you for it!

A national educational campaign including guidelines for buying new tyres and tips for taking care of them is important for all makes of car, but particularly valuable for owners of the smaller and earlier EV models where efficiency and range maximisation are sometimes more important than in their ICV counterparts.  Tyres are expensive, environmentally toxic to make, run (they give off minute fragments as they wear) and dispose of, so there are good community reasons for making them last as long as possible.

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged selection of many of the comments received.

What determines your frequency of checking tyre pressures? (Question A)

Simple: when the tyre looks flat!

“When the tyres look low, or feel slightly underinflated x53 similar responses” • “change in tyres” • “When I feel they need pumping up” • “Does it look soft?” • “If tyres look and feel right” • “The feel of the tyre” • “I always worry that 1 or more looks a bit soft” • “Observation” • “visible squish”

My EV lets me know

“I have a continuous reading available on my dashboard/TPMS/LeafSpy” x9 similar responses • “km/KWh drops below 7.3” • “Automatic warning message on dashboard x13 similar responses” • “The car tells me that they are low so I don’t need to check x6 similar responses”

A sub-par driving experience

“Fuel economy and vehicle handling” • “efficiency of drive” x4 similar responses • “Sluggish feeling while driving” • “Feel of ride” • “I can feel the drive soften when the tyres are less than full” • “Vehicle handling feels off” • “How it drives” • “Feels heavy” • “If range is low” x3 similar responses • “if I notice steering/ride issues” • “Hmm. if I suspect they’re a bit flat (feel it when driving)” • “Reducing efficiency, noise, handling or range changes” • “ride and cornering behaviour changes”

It’s part of the routine

“Routine/Habit x6 similar responses” • “Monthly x9 similar responses” • “Call at tyre shop when shopping” • “Sunday is car check day!” • “Monday chores” • “I check out of habit. Every Saturday after I’ve washed the Leaf. Rain and shine” • “Program it on my car screen (leaf)” • “Once in fortnight” • “Part of regular checks x4 similar responses” • “ A reminder in my diary, and any time I think they might be under inflated” • “Monthly checks are easier and allows me to gauge how the tyres keep their pressure. If pressures are not stable, then such frequent checks will soon show up problems with tyres” • “Checklist” • “periodic check on pressure” • “time since last done x1 similar response” • “A little less than monthly” • “ Quarterly check regardless of condition” • “Bi monthly x3 similar responses” • “normally checking tyres even on ICE cars very rarely have to adjust the pressures” • “I try to check them monthly but it usually ends up being less frequently!” • “Daily use visual inspections” • “just a routine and have a compressor at home” • “triggered by a routine service” • “Reminders” • “mean to check weekly but usually forget; current tyres hold their pressure well so monthly seems okay” • “On a set schedule” • “just seems a sensible frequency” • “Annual maintenance” • “Self-determined schedule”

The same reason I check(ed) my ICE tyres

“as per our previous ICE car” • “I do it quarterly as I have always done when I had an ICE car. I don’t do a big mileage. I get wheel balancing done once a year unless I feel the need for it sooner” • “I check my tyres on my ICE car too, monthly, for the reason it needs less petrol”

Longer trips trigger tyre checks

“when I’m preparing for a longer distance trip” x28 similar responses • “Amount of travel” • “With our ICE it’s usually before a big trip, e.g, holiday” • “We check before long trips, but, in our Leaf we don’t do long trips, so doesn’t apply” • “Journeys outside Christchurch”

Owner knowledge and past experiences

“Habit from learning on poor quality cross ply tyres, cheap pressed steel wheels that slow leak, seasonal pressure variation due to temperature” • “Knowing the importance of increased drag from under-inflated tyres on reducing EV range” x5 similar responses • “My knowledge of how quickly they deflate” • “Tyre pressure drops about 1 to 2psi in a month so checking more frequently is not needed” • “To avoid detrimental performance without excessive testing. Have own digital gauge and hand pump” • “been in transport for 40 years and that’s one thing that you check frequently” • “Safety and increased mileage efficiency (petrol and electrical)” • “Experience” x3 similar responses • “Kind of discipline” • “Past variance, not hard to predict how quickly the pressure will change if you know how quickly it has been changing previously” • “Curiosity. Last time I was curious I discovered a rear tyre deflated to 19 psi…a slow leak from a nail puncture. I have since replaced that tyre” • “When I think it needs it” • “Our Kumho Ecowing tires have a low roll-resistance, and I had them filled with Nitrogen, which further improves the smoothness as well as holds the tire pressure much better” x1 similar response • “I read your discussion article that pointed to tyre pressure being an important factor in optimising the performance of an EV. I have found that in 1 month the pressure drops by 3-4 PSI, so I top up the pressure monthly” • “When I need to change pressures – or suspect a leak” • “I think that once a month is sufficient for the distance I drive” • “Whether or not I suspect the pressures have dropped” • “I think there may be a problem” • “If I suspect attire may be low” • “When my husband checks his he checks mine. Whenever he thinks they need it” • “want to keep pressure up” • “Since the last time new tyres were fitted on my Leaf I’ve had a slow leak in the right-rear tyre. It loses 1 pound / day, so I top it up once or twice / week” • “The Dunedin EV group checked tyre pressures at the start of one of our community experiments and found a lot were way lower than recommended – but even with that wake-up call (last November) I haven’t increased my checking frequency”

If/when I visit a petrol station, wash the car, or when the car gets serviced

“booked in for new tyres this coming Friday” • “Car wash” x2 similar responses • “I always check when we visit a service station for trailer hire! Other than that, I need to be better at checking” • “Ease of access to the inflating gear” • “When I’m in the petrol station filling my PHEV with petrol” x2 similar responses • “When for some strange reason I have to go to a petrol station” x1 similar response • “Gas station gauges can be massively out of calibration” • “When the vehicles gets serviced” x3 similar responses • “I don’t worry about it. My mechanic checks it” • “at yearly WOF” • “Suggested by the tyre people I go to” x1 similar response • “Proximity to a service station where I can use the free air” x2 similar responses • “petrol station withdrawal” x5 similar responses • “every 6 months, when I get a warrant .. ” • “failure to get a WOF because of worn tyres” • “Fill LPG at petrol station every week for the shop and take the opportunity of them providing the service” • “The only place to put air in my tyres is at a petrol station and I don’t like going there and I don’t feel comfortable just going to put air in” • “Convenience e.g. spare time near service station” • “The equipment to check tyre pressure” • “whether I feel like a service station pie for lunch”

When I remember, or if I can be bothered, and only if I have the time

“When I remember/think of it” x59 similar responses • “When I have time/it’s convenient” x14 similar responses • “I intend to do it weekly, but it may slip to two-weekly” • “It’s simple. I never need to take the car to a petrol station or do any other maintenance so I forget!!  It’s a worry. I’m trying to kick the tyres more often” • “When the work team remember to do this and reminders from Managers” • “Feels about that time again” x4 similar responses • “Random” x7 similar responses • “Laziness” x3 similar responses • “Just a mental reminder to check in a few weeks’ time” • “Just luck” • “whichever way the wind blows” • “Modern cars and tyres seem to need it a lot less” • “Mainly just getting around to it” • “I suddenly decide I haven’t checked for a while. Better do it!” • “Whenever I remember that I haven’t checked the tyres for a while. Then I think about it for another month… and then hopefully check it” • “I do this occasionally” • “When I have the compressor running in the workshop” • “Opportunity or necessity” • “Knowing where the gauge is” • “Whim” x2 similar responses • “Organisational skills – or lack thereof” • “I have no system” • “often don’t think about it”

Weather pending

“I’ve been surprised by how they often need inflating a little depending on the weather” • “If it’s crappy weather I check the pressures” • “when the weather turns nasty and I have to drive” • “When the weather gets frosty” • “Change in season/temperature” x6 similar responses.

Fear of a flat or bare tyre

“There is no spare tyre in the car” • “The fear of having to replace tyres too soon” • “sensitive to the lack of a spare”

When it’s Flip the Fleet upload time!

“I check the efficiency meter, if it’s low then that’s usually a sign the tyre pressure is low. So I do this monthly as part of the Flip the Fleet data upload” • “Monthly maintenance coinciding with Flip the Fleet data upload – I charge the 12V batteries as well as they are not maintained adequately by the cars system” • “seems to be a good interval and checking FTF data encourages to check tyre pressure too”

Other

“My e-bike gets hard to push so I check the bike and the car” • “I ride a bicycle to work, my wife commutes with the EV.  If anyone has ridden a bicycle with low tyre pressure you can really notice the difference and you work much harder… this is the same with your car is working harder with low tyre pressure” • “Enduring pressure stays up” • “I probably should routinely check them more often” • “When my partner does it as I have never done it before” • “they don’t change much” • “I just don’t think about it” • “I haven’t worked out how to check them with LeafSpy yet” • “to sell it, so haven” • “Just think it’s something I need to do.  Not sure why” • “Being only a recent Leaf owner, decisions to change tyre pressure” • “I am not overly concerned”

How do you decide what pressure to use? (Question B)

I go with the recommendations/specifications

“I run to the top end of recommendations” x3 similar responses • “Use recommended/specified pressure” x72 similar responses • “Sticker on driver’s door pillar” x57 similar responses • “maximum pressure written on tyre (44Psi)” • “I do it to a level I was told from where I bought my car from” • “As per what’s written on the tyre” x11 similar responses • “On the wear pattern, factory listed pressure is an indication, but depends on brand tyre, and driving style” • “maximum recommended pressure of 44 PSI … for safety” • “what is recommended by tyre supplier” • “Read manual” x37 similar responses • “Go by the manufacturer’s handbook in relation to the tyre manufacturer” • “Door sticker 250/2.5 (35psi) Aware of lots of debate but decided to stick with manufacturers recommendation” • “As recommended by Renault” • “Online manual” • “Manufacturers or tyre suppliers recommendation. Write front and back pressures inside the fuel cap cover” • “The car tells me that too” • “Advice from my mechanic was to stick to the 36 psi for the tyres I have on. It seems to match the manual default pressure” • “The recommended pressure is 36 psi. I use a foot pump with a gauge attached and have separate, pen-size gauge. When I disengage the connecter to the pump, some air usually hisses out so I err on the side of adding a little extra air. I’ve also read that some other owners recommend 38 psi, so I don’t think this does any harm” • “I check the maximum tyre pressure rating, and knock a bit off” • “Written on the vehicle reg plate”

I go above the recommendations/specifications

“5 psi above recommended to give time between refills and to increase efficiency” • “Manufacturer’s figure + a bit more” • “The recommended pressure plus a bit but careful not to exceed the maximum allowable tyre pressure” x1 similar response • “2psi over recommendation” x8 similar responses • “sometimes run them slightly higher” • “manufactures recommendation plus 1. Do not rely on car equipped auto pressure even via Leaf Spy” • “Manufacturer’s recommendation plus a bit, load expected etc. Safer if higher although that compromises comfort” • “Add 10% to manufacturers recommendation” • “Handbook + 3psi (with good tyres)” • “A bit more than the recommended pressure” • “I go by the book and add a couple of psi. harder ride but lower rolling resistance and less tire wear. I usually set it to about 40psi in summer” • “A bit higher than the max recommended but less than 42psi” • “Factory spec + 5psi or whatever is still comfortable” • “Pressure noted on door pillar, plus a little extra for economy” • “Take it to just above the recommended but so far the losses have been nil” • “Manual plus a little bit” • “Go a few psi above recommended. 40psi” • “I choose firm (a little above recommended pressure) as have not noticed either excessive wear or traction loss” • “Recommended pressure + 4 psi” x1 similar response • “Sticker on the door frame tells me. I usually add 0.1bar” • “I go a bit above recommended pressure for lowest rolling resistance” • “Always run around 45psi. Max I can go without causing it to be slippery in the wet”

I do online research

“Online/web research” x8 similar responses • “Facebook EV owners group discussion” x7 similar responses • “I followed the website recommendation of 42-43 PSI” • “Advice from fellow Leafers re rolling resistance vs safety” • “From forum advice – manufacturer recommended plus about 4psi” • “read it should be about 39” • “Google search on forums to see what others have done and effects” x10 similar responses • “I watched a YouTube which showed the way to work out what pressure to use” • “I google to see what the recommended pressure is for the Nissan” • “I’d probably Google it” • “Search online for Manual

Trial and error/personal preference

“Trial and error” • “Best compromise between range and road grip” x6 similar responses • “Guess” • “I tried a few pressures initially when I got the car but I seem to get the best results at 37kPa” • “Increase until tyre deformation when cornering ceases. Under inflation generates a sensation of wallowing through the corners, body roll plus uncertainty of grip of the road” • “It has been difficult to decide. Bought the Leaf with 28 psi all round and car handled very well with no understeer. Gradually increased the pressure 2psi a month and understeer gradually increased. Now running at 37psi because I need maximum range in winter” • “What I have always used” x2 similar responses • “38 psi is what works for me” • “I go for 38 PSI” • “I like 40psi” • “I use (x)psi because I think it will cause the least rolling resistance” x1 similar response • “I know” • “Depends on what I’m doing – Grass events use different pressures and I use different tyres and pressures for tarmac events and drag races” • “I use 40psi all round” • “Ride comfort” • “Economy” • “Adjust based on wear pattern” • “I set them at 40psi and allow them to drop to 38psi during cold weather”

Advice/word of mouth

“I go by what I was told when I bought the car” • “The bloke tells me what they should be” • “the advice of my mechanic” • “I was told at an EV meet” • “Asked the seller” • “Ask someone” x1 similar response • “Advice, BUT EV mechanics advise 40 psi and tyre mechanics advise 32-34 psi” • “Advice from car vendor” • “Technical advice” • “Garage mechanic told us to pump tyres to 50” • “recommendations from other people” • “what I see others recommend” • “Told me 38-40” • “Advice from other drivers whose expertise I respect” • “I asked my tyre man” • “The previous owner”

I go to the tyre shop

“I go to tyre shop” x3 similar responses • “The tyre guy does this” • “leave it to the technician changing the tyres to inflate them correctly” • “I cheat – go to the mechanics!!!“ • “Pressure details provided by the dealer

I have a mixed-method approach

“Manufacturer’s recommendation, adjusted for Internet wisdom & wear observations” • “Research and trial and error” • “Some combination of internet opinion moderated by what I think is safe” • “40 PSI for less rolling resistance and less tyre wall roll on corners, but below manufacturers” • “Manufacturer recommendation and experience combined” • “Recommended balanced with forums” • “Tyre specification primarily then what others recommend on the forums (about 40psi)” • “Manual, but car will indicate” • “From experience on the type of road I mainly drive on, as advised by mechanic” • “Go by the manufacturer’s handbook in relation to the tyre manufacturer” • “Manufacturer plus NZ EV Facebook discussion”

Other/Unsure

“Guess” • “always go to 32 but I have no idea if this is correct!!” • “Same as last car” • “34psi” • “Haven’t checked pressure yet, but should do it this week” • “Gauge” • “Haven’t done it yet” • “The car does that in the computer” • “No idea. Custom wheels and tires so just put 35 in” • “No idea” x3 similar responses • “I don’t know what they should be. Only bought leaf recently” • “Wireless from each tyre” • “Have it written down”

Compared to your current/previous Internal Combustion Vehicle, has your frequency of checking tyre pressures changed? And if yes, how? (Question C)

I check my tyres more often now

“Yes, much more frequent. Previously I would check every 1 to 3 months” x3 similar responses • “Yes, more often x25 similar responses” • “Have always regularly checked tyre pressure but more conscious of doing so since owning an EV” • “Probably slightly more with EV, would just do internal combustion vehicle when serviced or before a big trip” • “More rigorous about doing it monthly” • “Very rarely checked the tyres on my petrol car and only if they looked flat” • “Yes. Never used to bother” • “I check them more frequently, but I do my ICE as well so it’s all good” • “Yes, about twice as often with the Leaf” • “A bit more regular” • “Yes, slightly more conscious of it” • “Check more often but less concerned about pressures” • “Yes.  More important to maintain good pressure for an EV” • “More careful now” • “yes – increased. With the Prius I’d always intend to do it while getting petrol and then run out of time. Now as it’s the only thing I have to use the petrol station for I’m actually better about doing it” • “Compared to my road cars – lot more frequently” • “a bit more sensitive” • “Yes. Monthly for ICE” • ““Yes, was notorious for not checking tyre air pressure and then getting warnings from mechanics” • “Increased on the Leaf” • “Yes. More often, previously perhaps one every 6 months, or before a long trip”

More often, because of EV technology

“Yes, I didn’t have the on-board measure available so checking was infrequent, say every two to three months” • “from a casual look to actual gauging” • “Yes, I only probably checked my tyre pressure twice a year, if that. I only did it if I thought the tyres looked a bit down. Leaf Spy has changed all that. It is so easy now because of the prompt if the tyres go below my set pressure” • “I do it more often, since my car has a TPMS with a dashboard display” x6 similar responses • “dash warning – car was delivered at half recommended pressure. Just purchased the car so assumed dealer/service had it covered” • “Frequency has increased mainly due to the regular reminders. I have always been aware of the need to keep tyre pressures correct to minimise drag and reduce tyre wear so the reminder is a great way to keep on top of these things”

More often, to maintain range and protect my tyres

“Yes, more frequently to maintain range (efficiency) and wear performance” x10 similar responses • “yes, extra weight” • “Yes. Previously checked about twice a year; and didn’t really consider the tyre pressure a significant factor related to efficiency” • “Yes. I have less mileage with my battery range and I like to maximise it. I was less inclined to keep my tyre pressure checked with petrol vehicle I guess I didn’t think about so much!” • “Yes, more range anxiety” • “Yes, more frequent as aware tire pressure can improve efficiency (more?) in an EV” • “I have a specific issue with one wheel. The others have been fine for months” • “It has changed now that I discovered that slow leak. With my last ICE I would really only check pressure at WOF time or if a tyre looked low. Now with my EV I will check at least once a month”

More often, because I’m a new EV owner

“More often – but this is partially because I’m a new EV owner” • “Yes – much more frequent, especially as the car is less than a year old. Also, I ride a bike and have learnt the difference tyre pressure can make to that experience” • “I check more often now because I am reminded of it to do monthly data uploads. Also, because tyres on the EV seem to lose pressure quicker than my old petrol car”

No change in tyre-checking frequency

“No/No change/Same x201 similar responses” • “No. I always check tyre pressures regularly on bikes, motorbikes and cars. Mainly for safety reasons and to ensure optimal handling” • “Same principles as any car” • “not really – tend to rely on a visual check at home, and then confirm when it appears needed” • “Not really, I was always very tyre pressure aware, I did not want to waste petrol.  I am a little more aware now with an EV” • “Probably the same. But had more reminders visiting petrol stations and seeing the air filling stations” • “Not really, I was aware of the need to keep an eye on it already” • “No. It’s important for both” • “no, same logic, same pressure” • “No – I’d always check before going on a road trip” • “Not really, but maybe. Used to check petrol car before long trips” • “No, should I?” • “No (I use nitrogen for tires)” • “Nope.  I looked at them and thought one was a bit down so took it to the local tyre place, mainly to show off my EV.  Apparently the one I thought was down was ok but another one was definitely down” • “About the same, though I recognise that tyre pressure has a greater bearing on efficiency” • “I do not recall ever personally checking tyre pressure on my previous vehicle in 20 years of ownership” • “I always checked tyre pressures weekly – after riding motorcycles for 15 years before owning a car it’s just second nature as tyre pressures on bikes have to be spot on if you ride them to their potential” • “No, but am aware that tyre pressure can affect battery usage

I check my tyres less often now

“Yes, check tyre pressure less x6 similar responses” • “I may check less often as we don’t use the leaf for long trips” • “compared to my old track mini (80s) a lot less frequently”

Less often, due to less petrol station stops

“Have to make an effort to stop at petrol station” x1 similar response • “Decreased since I visit service stations so much less frequently!” x12 similar responses • “Yes – I do it less – tyre pressure on garage forecourts are for paying customers- I don’t pay for petrol” • “Yes. Because I had a petrol car, I was always at the petrol station and so I’d check it every couple of weeks, and because that car’s tyres always needed topping up. The EVs doesn’t seem to lose pressure like [an ICE]

Less often, because of less longer trips

“Yes, it got worse – with our ICE, at least, I checked before road trips. Now we’re really bad…” • “Yes, haven’t had to check yet and won’t be able to do any long trips due to the range of the car”

Less often, because of EV technology

“Yes, less because I leave it to the car” • “less, due to the automatic sensor” • “Now no need to check, as car should indicate

Less often because I’m a new EV owner

“Less as I have more confidence in a newer car”

Other/NA/Unclear direction of frequency change

“Only had car over 1 month. Not checked tyre pressure yet” • “Yes. It is done as required by the car” • “More aware of importance” • “NA Only had the car a month” • “Not needed yet as have only had EV for 5 months” • “Yes, I used to check my previous petrol driven car fairly regularly as the correct tire pressures were on a metal plate inside the right front door jamb”

What sort of tyres do you have on your EV? (Question D)

Michelin

“Michelin Energy Saver” x3 similar responses • “Michelin low rolling resistance” • “Michelin 195/55 R16” • “Michelin Green Energy Saver 205/55R16” x2 similar responses • “Michelin as fitted at the time of manufacture” x2 similar responses • “Michelin 165/55 16 economy” • “Michelin as for UK Leaf”

Bridgestone

“Bridgestone” x12 similar responses • “Bridgestone Ecopia EP150 205/55 R16” x21 similar responses • “Bridgestone Ecopia EP-300 tyres” • “Bridgestone Ecopia” x51 similar responses • “Performance tyres that came with the optional Nismo leaf 18″ wheels. Bridgestone RE001 from memory” • “Originally had Bridgestone Ecopia E300 on the front, but one of them spontaneously punctured in the side wall” • “The Ecopia low rolling resistant tyres that come with the Leaf. I don’t know if they are originals or replacements done in Japan” • “Bridgestone Potenza re003 245/40/17” • “Bridgestone eco (new version of original)” • “What they came with, Bridgestone Traction and Temp tyres” • “Bridgestone RE002” • “Bridgestone Turanza”

Goodyear

“Original Nissan Leaf 2016 on the back, energy efficient Goodyear Assurance front” • “Goodyear Optilife” x2 similar responses • “Goodyear ‘EfficientGrip 185/65R15 92H” x2 similar responses • “Goodyear Eco” • “Goodyear Assurance TripleMax” x4 similar responses • “Goodyear Efficientgrip 185/65R15 92H” • “Goodyear Assurance Tyremax” • “Goodyear Efficient Grip on the front” • “Goodyear Assurance fuel savers

Dunlop

“Dunlop Enasave EC300 x11 similar responses” • “Nissan Leaf factory fitted Dunlop Enasave” • “Dunlop” • “Came with Dunlop enasave EC300. But likely to change to Bridgestone Ecopia soon” • “Dunlop LM704 (came with the car)” • “Dunlop 215-50 R17 91V x2” • “Dunlop Enasave (factory originals still)” • “Dunlop DSX-2 205/55 R16 91Q (Winter tyres)” • “Dunlop 205/55 A16

Other brands

“Yokahama Ecos” • “Haida” • “Kumho Solus TA31 225/40R18” • “Road Fit SK10 215-50 R17 91W” • “Kumho” x1 similar response • “Firestone – Standard that came with the EV” • “I have Nitto semi slicks on the back” • “Nexen N’blue HD 205/60R16” • “Continental Contisport” • “HiFly HF201 205/55 R16 91V” • “[Yokohama] blue earth” • “[Nissan] e-NV200” • “We just put 2 Sunfull tyres on the front recently” • “[GT] Radial” • “[GT] Radial steel belted” • “ Toyo proxies” • “Hyundai manufacturers tyres for EV” • “Yokohama, I think” • “Kumho Ecowing” • “GT radial low rolling resistance” • “Khumo Wattrun on the Leaf I think” • “Toyo NanoEnergy3 plus”

Original/Factory-fitted/Standard/What the car came with

“tyres that came with car” x38 similar responses • “Factory fitted” x14 similar responses • “Round ones (came with car too lazy to check)” • “Originals/OEM x13 similar responses” • “God knows. The ones that came with the beast” • “Standard i-MiEV tyres” • “Standard, whatever Tesla supplied!” • “Japanese tyres as when purchased. Due for replacement before next WOF” • “The manufacturers” • “Standard tyres I” • “Standard 16″ non-directional” • “17 inch supplied with car” • “Factory 2011 tyres from Japan. No idea what they are. They pass WOF, who cares” • “UK fitted never looked” • “The standard specially designed ones that come with the i3” • “Those recommended for i3 by BMW” • “The standard Nissan Leaf tyres” x3 similar responses • “Manufacturers recommended – haven’t changed tyres yet from new – 40 000kms and counting” • “Would have to check. We’ve had it for two years now” • “Standard”

Low rolling resistance, green/eco, radial

“low rolling resistance tyres x10 similar responses” • “eco somethings” • “Some sort of eco tyres or better” • “green tyres” x1 similar response • “Low profile radial” • “two low resistance tyres and two regular tyres” • “Radial” • “ECO – type”

No idea/Don’t know/Unsure/Other

“Pneumatic” • “EPV1AZ if that helps” • “Don’t know/not sure/unsure/no idea” x34 similar responses • “Haven’t looked at them yet” • “Rubber ones x5” • “Can’t respond – away from home” • “??? x4 similar responses” • “Round ones x6 similar responses” • “Sorry I am on holiday so do not know” • “two original two replacements no idea” • “Nothing special” • “I don’t know, just normal tyres” • “Fat ones.  Sorry, I’m a bit of a girl with cars.  I’m told they are good ones for an EV” • “Econo • “Regular tyres” • “Generic low profile” • “Directional” change to all low resistance at next renewal” • “Lower profile g model tyres as imported” • “30 to 32psi” • “Good ones” • “Black ones, inflatable, made of rubber” • “Something other than Ecopia”

What determined your choice of tyres? (Question E)

Still got the tyres the EV came with…

“Came with the vehicle x182 similar responses” • “Factory” x7 similar responses • “Haven’t had to change them yet so haven’t had to choose” x10 similar responses • “No decision has yet been made – there’s still 6mm of tread all around” • “Was fitted by Nissan Europe” • “Original tyres” x3 similar responses • “As supplied!” x2 similar responses • “Supplied by vehicle manufacturer” • “As purchased” • “Tesla agency decided” • “At this stage, I’m just using the tyres which were on the vehicle when I bought it” • “As supplied new and did replace one with a slightly damaged sidewall” • “Previous owner” • “New tyres were already on the car when bought, and got them aligned just in case not done already” • “those recommended for i3 by BMW”

…but when replacements are needed…

“when they need replacement, I will opt for “fuel-saver” tyres, since I have found them to be extremely effective on my petrol car” • “But when I need to replace, I would like to get good quality tyres. I never bothered with my old petrol car because it was on its last legs so I just got cheap tyres” • “decision will be based on lowest rolling resistance that gives the safest ride” • “When we go to buy new, we’ll look for low-noise and low-rolling resistance tyres. We’ll evaluate factory-recommended options and compare to what’s available aftermarket” • “but I would stay with the most efficient tyres I can find at a reasonable price” • “but will go for low rolling resistance when replacing in due course” x1 • “Have some eco tyres to try next – hankook nanotech 3 which I scored cheap of TradeMe. Same size as current tyres. Will also fit on lighter rims though” • “When they need replacing we will get the best tyres that give us the best range combined with the best safety and longevity” • “I will likely choose different wheels when I change tyres, to the ones I prefer – i.e. best safety.  I had Yokohamas on my last car with asymmetrics” • “but I will look for longevity and low rolling resistance” • “But will replace with a new one the same as it is replacing” • “Will look for economy next time they are due to be replaced” • “Next tires won’t consider rolling resistance since range is not a consideration. Instead I will go for safety, longevity and quiet” • “but I will consult manual and mechanics when need to replace” • “may make a different choice when they need replacement” • “Want relatively low rolling resistance, but also good wet weather performance” • “maximum grip in wet conditions”

I went with recommendations

“advise of supplier” • “Manufacturer recommendation” x10 similar responses • “Usually a recommendation from local tyre guys” • “What was recommended for the car”  x1 similar response • “EV forum recommendations” • “I trust my mechanic” • “recommendations from other EV owners” • “Manual” • “Web compare” • “Next time mechanic said to get Fuel savers” • “suggestion of the technician doing the changing” • “Whatever is recommended when I buy them” • “The ones they sell me” • “International reviews” • “Tyre dealer pointing out the highest efficiency tyres also had the least tread and therefore were not actually a great buy” • “I wanted low rolling resistance tyres to replace the factory ones; This was what the local shop had” • “Advice of my tyre shop. A good tyre for metal roads” • “Mechanic said they were as good as Ecopia for half the price” • “The salesman” • “Will check recommendations on the Facebook groups”

Cost was paramount

“Cost/price” x16 similar responses • “longevity” x1 similar response • “Value (mileage vs price)” • “Price, some eco tires OTT with pricing” • “I never go with the cheapest ones” • “Will probably go mid-price range because of shorter distances travelled from home compared to ICV” • “Price to Quality Ratio. Don’t buy the cheapest, and don’t get the most expensive (unless proven worthwhile) ” • “Historically, price is a deciding factor when replacing tyres” • “After agonising about what tyres to put on the Zoe when it needed new tyres, I just went for some el cheapo” • “Cheap, would look at better ones when replacing next”

The tyres that perform best on the road and will last were the ones for me

“I wanted low rolling resistance to maximise range/efficiency” x10 similar responses • “Fuel efficiency” x6 similar responses • “Good Braking performance” • “(wet) grip performance” x5 similar responses • “Wear” • “Performance” x4 similar responses • “Supposedly more range” • “Best tyre for the type of car” • “Durability and quiet tread design” • “Quietness” x1 similar response • “Noise” • “Safety” x2 similar responses • “Quality” • “Previously had Ecopia and they were crap so went the next model up when I replaced the tyres” • “Suitability” • “My WOF test recently forced complete replacement of the original tyres that came with my 2015 24 kWh Leaf import (now at 38 km). The originals were snow tyres (Dunlop 205/55- 16 Winter Max WM01). Even though only two tyres were below the minimum tread depth, all four had to go unless I continued with the snow tyres all round i.e. a mix of snow and ordinary tyres is not allowed. According to MacFarlane’s Tyre Centre, snow tyres are hard to get and more expensive, so they fitted low-rolling resistance tyres instead (Goodyear Assurance TripleMax 205/55 R16). They predict a noticeable rise in energy efficiency. It is very noticeable that the car is much quieter on the road “there is way less wheel rumble”

I stuck with what works!

“Will replace tyres with similar when required” • “Have always run Bridgestone tyres on all my cars” • “Brand” • “Whatever the EV came with however I will not use re-treads” • “Default to existing status quo” • “likely to keep with brand/type as at 58,000 km they still have good tread” • “OEM” • “OEM fitted” • “Offered by Beaurepairs” • “I wanted original tyres as I assumed they might be designed to maximise efficiency”

NA/Other

“Not applicable yet x4” • “From new…” • “Convenience” • “I have no preference for tyres, except I prefer unpunctured ones…” • “They came stock from the car yard” • “All sorts” • “What I really need is a spare wheel as we’ve had to get the AA out twice” • “Nissan” • “I didn’t choose” x7 similar responses

References

¹ Pearce, J.M., Hanlon, J.T. (2007). “Energy Conservation From Systematic Tire Pressure Regulation”. Energy Policy, 35(4), pp. 2673­2677.

² Oduro, S., Alhassan, T., Owusu-Ansah, P., Andoh, P. (2013). A Mathematical Model for Predicting the Effects of Tyre Pressure on Fuel Consumption. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, Engineering and Technology. 6. 123-129. 10.19026/rjaset.6.4046.

³ Provided by Justin Edgington, Training & Business Development Manager (Group), Tyreline.

⁴ Provided by Bill Prebble, Head of Technical and Product, Goodyear Dunlop Tyres NZ

⁵ EECA. (2018) EECA Energywise: Tyre pressure. Accessed July 2018: https://www.energywise.govt.nz/on-the-road/tyre-pressure/

⁶ Electronic Specifier (2018). How to make the most of your tyres on an electric vehicle. Blog published online 3^rd July 2018. Accessed 19^th July at: https://automotive.electronicspecifier.com/ev/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-tyres-on-an-electric-vehicle

⁷ EECA. (2018). EECA Business: Tyres for cars, vans and utes. Accessed July 2018: https://www.eecabusiness.govt.nz/technologies/vehicles/cars-vans-and-utes/tyres-for-cars-vans-and-utes/

⁸ Schuring, D.J. and Futamura, S. (1990). Rolling loss of pneumatic high-way tire in the eighties. Rubber Chem. Technol., 63(3): 315-367.

⁹ Calwell, C., Ton, M., Gordon, D., Reeder, T., Olson, M., and Foster, S. (2003). California State Fuel Efficient Tire Report: Volume II, California Energy Commission, 600­03­ 001CR. Available: http://www.energy.ca.gov/reports/2003­01­31_600­03­ 001CRVOL2.PDF

¹⁰ Hadrys D, Wegrzyn T, Miros M. (2008). The Influence of various pressures in pneumatic tire on braking process of car with anti-lock braking system. in Transport Problems, 2008.

¹¹ Besselink, I. J. M., Schmeitz, A. J. C., & Pacejka, H. B. (2010). An improved Magic Formula/Swift tyre model that can handle inflation pressure changes. Vehicle System Dynamics, 48(S1), 337-352.

¹² Penant, C. (2005). Michelin: The Challenge of Energy Efficient Tyres. Presentation at the International Energy Association Workshop on Low Rolling Resistance Tyres, Paris 11/2005

¹³ Zervos, H. (2010). Tyre pressure monitoring systems and energy harvesting. Off Grid Energy Independence, accessed 17^th July 2018. https://www.offgridenergyindependence.com/articles/2587/tyre-pressure-monitoring-systems-and-energy-harvesting

¹⁴ Savitski, D., Hoepping, K., Ivanov, V., & Augsburg, K. (2015). Influence of the tire inflation pressure variation on braking efficiency and driving comfort of full electric vehicle with continuous anti-lock braking system. SAE International Journal of Passenger Cars-Mechanical Systems, 8(2015-01-0643), 460-467.

¹⁵ Redrouthu, B.M., Das, S. (2014). Tyre modelling for rolling resistance. Department of Applied Mechanics Division of Vehicle Engineering and Autonomous System Chalmers University of Technology. Masters Thesis 2014:24 ISSN 1652-8557. SE-412 96, Göteborg, Sweden.

Additional resources

EECA Energy-wise: Tyre Pressure

Includes a step-by-step video of how to check your tyre pressure

https://www.energywise.govt.nz/on-the-road/tyre-pressure/#Checkingyourtyrepressure

EECA Energy-wise: Tyre Pressure Tool

Calculate the recommended tyre pressure for your specific car

https://www.energywise.govt.nz/tools/tyre-pressure/

TyreSafe UK

Test your tyre knowledge with their 20-question quiz!

https://www.tyresafe.org/

Acknowledgements

We would like to express our utmost appreciation for the contributions made by Bill Prebble and Justin Edgington for teir peer review of this 21^st Flip the Fleet 1-Click survey and blog. Your knowledge is amazing and you gave generously of your time.  A hearty thanks to you both!

Any further questions?

Justin Edgington has kindly agreed for you to personally get in touch should you have any further tyre-related questions or queries.

Justin Edgington

TRAINING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (GROUP)

Tyreline Distributors Ltd

Phone: +64 (7) 843 3552

Mobile: +64 (0) 27 839 7101

Fax: +64 (7) 843 3582

Email: justin@tyreline.co.nz

This report was prepared by:

Hannah Gentle, Henrik Moller, Dima Ivanov and Daniel Myall

23 June 2018

Your take-home messages:

Hybrid households – those which run a mixed fleet of EVs/PHEVs and ICVs – are seeing the fastest uptake of EV ownership in New Zealand. For most, the new EV in the garage has made little impact on the family’s overall pattern and mode of transport. It has usually replaced the smaller ICV to become the new family runabout for the shortest commute, school pick-ups and groceries. The remaining ICV is still available for extended trips, without range anxiety, and as a workhorse to tow the family boat/trailer/caravan. Concentration of local travel in the family EV means they are travelling further overall than their ICV counterparts. A minority of EV owners are flying less and renting cars more for occasional long trips. Some are exploring new places and a few no longer visit the same places now that they have an EV. EV uptake campaigns should emphasise the social and family benefits of EV ownership more.

This month’s poll:

Our twentieth 1-click survey proposed that: Owning my electric vehicle has changed my mobility patterns and modes, and provided five options to choose from

1. a lot
2. to some degree
3. a little
4. not one bit
5. Unsure, I don’t know yet.

If the respondent chooses 4 or 5, they were invited to give us feedback in an open comments field. If they choose 1, 2 or 3, they were invited to answer the following supplementary questions by ticking as many boxes that apply to their circumstances:

A. First, please tell us which vehicles you have access to in your household or business (tick as many as apply):

1. Pure electric (EV)
2. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
3. Internal Combustion vehicle (ICV)
4. Electric bike
5. Push-bike
6. Motorbike or scooter

B. Now please tell us how your mobility patterns and modes have changed (tick as many as apply):

1. I do more long trips in my vehicle(s) away from home base
2. I do fewer long trips in my vehicle(s) away from home base
3. I do more kilometers overall in my EV than in my ICV
4. I do fewer kilometers overall in my EV than in my ICV
5. I travel to new places now than before I owned my EV
6. I no longer visit some places now that I own an EV
7. I fly more now than before I owned an EV
8. I fly less now than before I owned an EV
9. I use public transport (train, bus) more now than before I owned an EV
10. I use public transport (train, bus) less now than before I owned an EV
11. I use rental vehicles more now than before I owned an EV
12. I use rental vehicles less now than before I owned an EV
13. I walk or bike more now than before I owned an EV
14. I walk or bike less now than before I owned an EV
15. My mobility patterns and modes have changed in other ways than those mentioned above (please tell us how below)

Finally, these respondents were invited to provide feedback in an open comments field to explain the detail or reasons for their choices.

The poll was sent to 834 participants in Flip the Fleet on 10 June 2018. There were 483 responses by 14 June, including 301 who provided detailed comments and answers to supplementary questions.

Nearly a third of respondents (31%) consider that their mobility patterns and modes have not changed at all since buying an electric vehicle (Fig. 1). A third have registered a little change; 24% some change. Only 12% said it had significantly changed their driving habits. These percentages exclude nine respondents that were unsure, nearly all of whom commented that they had not owned their EV for long enough to know yet.

Fig.1 Responses of 474 participants to the proposition that Owning my electric vehicle has changed my mobility

patterns and modes, June 2018. Nine respondents who were unsure have been excluded from the analysis.

The value of this question?

We think that it is important to gauge how EV uptake impacts on mobility in New Zealand because transport infrastructure is expensive and takes a long time to build.  There is a risk that what we build now will be redundant soon because mobility is changing rapidly.  Understanding mobility needs is also a key to understanding where EVs will fit and who might be interested, or discouraged, from buying them.  Are EVs solely a one-off choice for businesses, families and communities that simply displace an equivalent fossil fuelled vehicle?  Or do EVs trigger other adjustments in mobility that will help New Zealand’s quest for a low-carbon and low-cost transport? What are the social implications of EV ownership?

What makes you click?

Here’s a word cloud of the comments you provided. It’s clear that most of your commentary was around longer and shorter trips from base.

Figure 2: A word cloud of the most frequent 80 words used in your responses to the main question of the survey. The larger the word, the more often you mentioned it. Synonyms of charging, short trips and long trips were merged into one word to simplify the depiction of most common themes.

In view of the delays and logistical constraints of charging along the way, we expected that families and business that have only an EV will travel differently from those who own an ICV as well. Therefore, we divided most of the analysis of the boxes you ticked between ‘EV only’ and ‘EV+ICV’ owners. We refer to the latter as owning a “family hybrid”. It turns out that most of us own an EV as part of a family hybrid fleet; i.e. by far the majority (78%) also own or have ready access to an ICV and/or a motorbike (Fig. 3). A minority (3%) have access to both a PHEV and an EV.

Figure 3: Availability of other electric vehicles and fossil fuelled vehicles to respondents to this survey. Some respondents also had regular access to electric bicycles (18%) and/or ordinary bicycles (43%), but these are excluded from the analysis. EV= pure electric vehicle; PHEV= Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle; MB = motorbike.

A popular misconception amongst non-EV owners is that owning an EV would severely restrict their travel. In fact, our survey suggests that around 5% of owners travel fewer kilometres overall in their EV or PHEV than in their ICVs. Certainly, the EV does the day-to-day joblist: making short trips from home to work, school or shops.  However, around two-thirds of respondents say they travel further in their EV or PHEV than in their current or previous ICV. This difference is largest in those families that retain an ICV as part of their “family hybrid” (Fig 4).

Figure 4. Changes in vehicle use patterns after purchase of a pure electric vehicle. The sample is divided into families and businesses with only EVs (blue bars) and ones that continued to own an ICV (orange bars). Data for PHEVs are excluded because of small sample size. The bars show the 5% and 95% uncertainty interval around the mean.

Frequent comments show that this results from concentration of travel in the family’s EV whenever the ICV was not required. Many hybrid households are moving from a dedicated owner/driver for each vehicle to allocating the EV and ICV cars to suit the circumstances. “We have four drivers in our household, often going different places,” said one respondent. “We have two EVs and one ICE. We try to offset as many short trips from the ICE and utilize the EVs to the max. Sometimes the ICE will sit for a week at a time.”

Another said: “We have to plan more who gets the EV and who gets the ICE (depending on who’s going further to utilise the EV more.”

But comments show that there is more to it than just transfer of travel to the EV whenever possible. For example, one said: “It probably looks weird that I do more long trips and kilometres and travel to new places now than before I owned an EV, because anyone would most likely expect the exact opposite, due to range anxiety and lack of charging infrastructure. However, there’s a very simple reason for that – it’s a lot more fun to drive an EV than an ICE. I don’t have to feel bad anymore about driving around for fun, and I enjoy the small challenge to plan my longer trips in a way that I combine charging stops with lunch and tea breaks, short walks or shopping. It just feels like a much more enlightened way to travel.” Driving for sheer pleasure and stopping to smell the roses while recharging were common themes as a pleasant adventure instead of a fossil-fuelled mission to the destination.

Most EVs are used for short trips, but around 10% of respondents reported doing more long journeys. The majority, especially families and businesses with only an EV and no ICV for back-up, tend to avoid longer trips from home base (Fig. 4).  Despite this reduction in the number of very long trips away from base, many families and businesses find themselves travelling more overall now that they have an EV. For example: “Driving an EV has not hindered my mobility at all. But the EV has allowed me to make longer trips more regularly that I would have hesitated to make with a petrol fuelled car. I am on the pension and must count my pennies. Making an hour trip into Wellington to visit my new granddaughter was costly ($20 at least) with my previous car. Now I don’t even think about it and visit when I want. The only difference is that I have to plan ahead and make sure the car is fully charged as I don’t like to fast charge my 30kw battery because I understand it is not so good for battery health.”

Reduced costs has meant EV ownership has expanded rather restricted mobility at a local level: “We have a greater sense of freedom with our EV, mainly through the dramatic drop in the cost of fuel and maintenance. Our petrol costs alone with our ICE were usually $450/month, but now in the first month of Leaf ownership I’ve spent approximately $45 in electricity (Flick, EV rate), which is an immediate and real cash saving of over $400.” Another said: “I used to say no to extra trips in the weekends/school holidays because each trip to town and back was $8… that adds up. Much less now with the EV, so I feel much more relaxed about extra trips within town.”

For some, the cost of commuting was an important reason for using the EV more: “It used to cost $10, now it costs $1.80.” It’s not just about dollars – time is important for some: “A big advantage to me in driving an EV (aside from the obvious reasons ie, environmental impacts and savings in fuel costs) is being able to drive in the EV priority lanes on the motorway onramps. This can sometimes save me about 10 – 15mins in the mornings.” This cost saving also helps some businesses deliver services to customer i.e. one respondent said he/she visits clients, rather than asking them to visit him/her.

EV and PHEV owners are included in the 12% who had made the biggest changes in their transport options. As a PHEV owner said: “Main changes are keeping any trips into town [37km return] reserved for when more than 50% charge. I am much more aware of battery usage. I am on my first road trip in my PHEV and hate using petrol! There just aren’t enough fast chargers and I still haven’t figured how to charge to the max.”

Relatively few respondents changed their use of other forms of transport following purchase of their EV or PHEV (Fig. 5).  There is weak statistical evidence that a small proportion of LEV owners fly less after they purchased an EV.  The minority of EV owners who fly less than previously are potentially much more important for climate change mitigation than their numbers suggest. Comments suggest that their reduction in flying is part of a wider and deliberate transition for people seeking to reduce emissions, especially to mitigate climate change. This is consistent with our April 2018 1-click survey that showed that around half of the people with EVs bought mainly for environmental reasons (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-18/). Some even reported that the Flip the Fleet reports made them aware for the first time how important it was for them to reduce air travel. For example: “Having our EV and having my nose rubbed in the CO₂ emissions issue by Flip the Fleet has made me travel by car to Christchurch (380km each way) rather than fly for work trips. I am also very reluctant to fly internationally or to conferences around NZ. Realising how little my EV emission saving actually is compared to air travel has definitely brought emissions to front of mind – I was so proud of buying an EV, and still am, but this pride multiplied the disappointment I felt when I realised what I emit by flying. We really need a family dashboard that includes home electricity and firewood use, air travel and the EV.”  However, the February 2018 survey showed a mix of trajectories: some people buy EVs because they already have environmental concerns, while others take more action because owning the EV reinforces or changes their values or awareness (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-16/). Therefore, many EV owners may already have reduced their flying before buying their EV.  Another couple said: “We’re a long way from our whānau and big-city attractions so we fly about the same amount as we used to (6-8 domestic flights a year), but the EV at least gives us a minor realistic offset on all the days when we don’t fly.”

Figure 5. Changes in mobility modes after purchase of a pure electric vehicle. The sample is divided into families and businesses with only EVs (blue bars) and ones that continued to own an ICV (orange bars). Data for PHEVs are excluded because of small sample size. The bars show the 5% and 95% uncertainty interval around the mean.

Approximately 5% of families that own just an EV now rent cars more often, compared to 1 % of the families that retained an ICV (Fig. 5).  Occasional renting or flying to fill the gaps for long trips from home base until cheaper long-range EVs become available: “My brother’s family has recently moved from Taranaki to Wellington,” reported one respondent. “With an ICE vehicle I would have driven to Wellington. I wouldn’t attempt to drive my 30kWh Leaf that far. Too many stops to fast charges and range anxiety between chargers. Will look for a budget flight or rental car until I get a next gen EV with better range in future.” Renting an ICE car for longer trips is an easy option, thanks to savings they’ve made through their EV.

Some households have gone fully EV and borrow an ICE car as required for occasional, longer trips such as visiting relatives more than 150km away or for towing a trailer. “Can’t make it quite as a far out of Wellington in the weekends so have to use other people’s car occasionally.” Fortunately, some EV owners are open to sharing their EVs and ICVs for the greater good: “We also lend our Subaru as often as we can to other EVers – it makes us feel good to share,” said one respondent.

“People are talking a lot about EV ride sharing or communal ownership. That’s ace and good for learning and spreading the word and experience of EVs, but really what we most need are communal ICEs for use in those occasional long trips or towing the trailer. The ideal would be for fewer families to have a car at all, but if they need one, for it to be just an EV, and then to borrow the use of an ICE when it’s absolutely needed.”

There are some EV car sharing schemes in New Zealand, which reduces the number of vehicles overall, rather than just substituting ICVs with EVs. However, some ICV sharing schemes would give EV-only households inexpensive access to a communally owned ICV for long trips, off-road use and towing. This ability would allow some hybrid households to drop their home ICV and run only an EV for their regular daily needs.

Some communities feature households which own ICV cars, but share a communal EV, as a low-cost run-around vehicle.

There is weak evidence that EV-only families walk or bike less since purchasing their EV (Fig. 5).  For some, carbon-fuelled guilt-trips have evolved to a guilt-free, emission-free drive in the EV. Perhaps some who previously took the bicycle to avoid taking the ICV, now take the EV with a clear conscience?  Many mentioned sitting in traffic with a clear environmental conscience in an EV, enjoying free parking for EVs at work, compared with sitting in a fuel-burning ICV. As in previous Flip the Fleet surveys, this reflects a growing awareness of the carbon footprint generally, for example: “I felt guilty driving ICEVs in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane during recent trip to Australia but there didn’t seem to be any viable EV option.”

There is no evidence that use of public transport changed on average after families purchased a LEV (Fig. 5). Some EV owners may use public transport or hire cars for trips unsuitable for their EV.  Others reported using public transport less because their commute is cheaper by EV, especially when parking at work is free.

Around a third of respondents ticked the box for ‘other’ changes in their mobility: reducing flights or using hybrid taxis when out of town, or taking an e-bike instead of a bus. One uses an EV for picking up hitchhikers, thereby sharing the EV experience.

We expect individual owners changes to depend on personal circumstances like age, urban/rural environments, access to public transport or commuting distances. A larger sample of respondents and more detailed research would be needed to confirm that no more differences exist, but overall, we can conclude that purchase of an EV or PHEV is not associated with large changes in how people move about. However, some of the changes in travel behaviour are subtle and will not necessarily reflected in overall statistics like total distance travelled, or mode of transport used. Changes include a high degree of route planning to ensure optimum use of charging stations, ensuring a full charge before a long trip and allowing for higher battery drain in cold weather or for an uphill, home run.

Some EV owners are now visiting new places, but others, especially those with just an EV, are no longer visiting some places that they used to frequent (Fig. 4). There is no doubt that EV owners think more about how they use their EV and, once people have started saving, they want to save more, as the following respondents demonstrate:

“I use +-80% of my 24kWh battery most days, with two slow charges at home, although I don’t have time on a Monday for the day-time charge at home, so I need to build in a rapid charge stop, which is free, so is a great economical choice, but can be a challenge with a toddler.”

Charging needs get accommodated by changing mobility patterns: “Due to the car’s built-in thermal protection system, only two consecutive battery quick charges can be performed per trip before the charge speed slows to a snail’s pace to protect the battery. The battery takes many hours to cool down due to its high mass, so this limits the maximum daily travel distance to less than 320km, at least in the warmer months anyhow. So it’s changed some use patterns and changed some thoughts as to what vehicle mix to use.” Another said: “I organise my messages/shopping/dog walks when I travel to Christchurch so that the last one ends up near a charging station so that I can top up before heading home (it’s uphill and uses more charge than the trip in).”  Some EV owners now take lots of shorter trips, even if the overall distance travelled does not change: “But less concerned about taking multiple small trips in the EV, used to be against popping out to the shops knowing that the short trips in the ICE car are the worse bit for wear and emissions.”

Conclusions and recommendations:

Disruption to mobility patterns

Our results suggest that buying an EV or PHEV has relatively little impact on the mobility patterns of most owners at a macro level, such as in distances travelled, places visited and the mode of transport used. Nearly a third of respondents (31%) consider that their transport habits did not change one bit, and a further 33% changed ‘a little’ since buying an EV. Clearly switching to an EV is more about a simple substitution of one vehicle type with another rather than a large change in their overall mobility.

Certainly, a widespread belief amongst the wider public that EV ownership severely restricts the mobility of owners is simply not true: in many cases exactly the reverse happens. This is not the same as saying that EVs will suit everyone’s needs or not force some compromises in mobility on some owners: it just means that where the EVs are fit for an owner or a family’s needs, they are often a benefit in many unexpected ways beyond the expected financial and environmental rewards.

Interpretation of this survey

It’s important to note that our questions pivoted around whether various aspects of mobility changed in the period after getting an EV.  This is not that same as asking whether acquisition of the EV caused the changes.  Several comments in earlier 1-click surveys referred to the EV choice fitting other changes in peoples’ households.  For example, some people bought the EV as they came into retirement to reduce costs, and retirement itself will have altered mobility patterns.  Our polling and participant profiles show that many seniors are buying EVs (e.g. see Figure 2 on p5 of Report #3 posted at https://flipthefleet.org/resources/research-reports/).   Travel, and issues like active transport (walking and biking) reduces for some elderly people, so some of the changes we registered in Figs. 4 & 5 may correlate with getting older rather than be caused by EV ownership.  Some people may have bought an EV precisely because their living location and mobility needs altered in ways that made it now a practical vehicle choice, rather than the other way round.  More broadly, environmentally conscious citizens may already be striving to fly less quite independently of buying the EV (see https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-16/ for many examples like this).  It is therefore unsurprising that some change was registered in both directions before versus after the EV purchase.

EVs are relatively new on the market, they will be the newest car in some family hybrid fleets.  Some of the attraction to using it in preference to the older ICV may relate to the more comfortable, quieter and safer ride it provides. Some of such benefits would be available had the family bought a relatively new ICV vehicle rather than a relatively new EV.  We notice that many discussions in social media about EV versus ICV benefits or constraints are conflating age and vehicle type effects.  For example, a family’s costs savings on petrol when they trade-up an old, relatively inefficient ICV for an EV will be much greater than had they substituted a new ICV for the EV.  This is why Flip the Fleet’s predictions of fuel use savings are based on estimating the fuel efficiency of near-new ICV’s of similar size and power (see Report #2 posted at https://flipthefleet.org/resources/research-reports/).

In retrospect, we have become concerned that some participants who clicked ‘not one bit’ when confronted with the survey’s overarching question may have only thought of broader issues like distance travelled, or how they got there.  Such participants therefore did not intercept the detailed list of tick-boxes to test whether more subtle shifts in mobility might have occurred.  Our supplementary questions may therefore have stimulated deeper thought and comments for just a subset of Flip the Fleet members.  This means that the exact estimated percent responses for the detailed questions should be treated with caution – they are at best indications of the relative degree of change in the different dimensions of mobility rather than absolute measures of the frequency of change. The direction of change after purchasing an EV and commentaries on how and why the changes occurred are more useful than the quantitative scores.  This preliminary survey is best treated as a qualitative analysis of the issues to be explored by more thorough follow-up research.

Social wellbeing: there is more to EVs than cost savings and environmental benefits:

Respondents’ comments reveal a large number of more subtle adjustments in mobility patterns at a micro-level. It’s clear that the transition to electric vehicles will have many social impacts, many of which are thoroughly enjoyed by their owners. Emission-free and savings on fossil fuel comes with a guilt-free bonus. Parents report picking up their kids on rainy days or happily driving them to sports practice because they don’t feel guilty about using the car, the way they did with the ICV. It’s easy to cruise into town for a forgotten item or even go for a drive for pleasure. Several respondents say they visit family more often because it barely costs a cent. Many respondents are planning their routes and drivers with care, and more willing to stay in the moment: take time en route to recharge, enjoy a coffee and even stop to explore towns that they used to whizz through on a mission to their destination. EVs seem to bring a slower pace of life.

Social dimensions of EV ownership have been comparatively neglected in Flip the Fleet’s communication of EV benefits and constraints so far.  Partly that bias relates to the more quantifiable nature of calculating dollars saved or GHG emissions avoided etc.  However, as some of you said in your comments to last month’s 1-click survey, it’s not all about numbers ( https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-19/). We will try to catch-up from now on to add more social and emotional responses to the good and not-so-good dimensions of owning EVs.

Family hybrids: the main pathway to change?

The third main conclusion of the survey is that the “family hybrid” represents the main pathway to EV ownership. Households that run two or more motor vehicles are likely to be the fastest to adopt EVs. Many families have solved the current constraints of the EV’s comparatively low range and inability to tow trailers etc. by retaining an old ICV for these special occasions.

Most car journeys are short and close to home – well within the range of an EV running on one charge, commuting to work, picking up kids from school, or nipping into town to pick up a forgotten item, so replacing an ICV with an EV typically sees little change in a household’s driving habits. Some commentators pointed out that retention of an ICV was a useful transition policy that built their confidence that EVs can meet most of their needs: they eventually disposed of the ICV as it was rusting and gathering cobwebs.

Focus of EV uptake messaging to two-car families may be most effective for accelerating uptake because it has fewer barriers to overcome. In the 2013 census, 7.9% of New Zealand households had no motor vehicle. Of the others, 37.6%, 38.4% and 16.3% had access to one, two, or three motor vehicles respectively (see http://archive.stats.govt.nz/Census/2013-census/profile-and-summary-reports/quickstats-transport-comms/number-motor-vehicles.aspx). Vehicles that can be used only for work, or only on the farm, and motorbikes, or scooters are excluded from these census figures. The percent of households with two or more vehicles has grown over the past two census periods. Thus, more than 54.7% of households currently have two or more motor vehicles. They are the prime group for substituting at least one of them with an EV. Such households would also be ideally placed to upgrade their remaining ICV(s) when longer range EV options become commonplace. Good information on ‘family hybrid’ advantages, including the social dimensions of EV ownership emphasised above, will help speed up the process; ie, whether they buy the ideal LEV or combination of LEVs and ICVs for the household and business needs or are able to include communal or hire cars in the mix.

The same logic of flexible substitution rates applies to business fleets. Since most current EVs are most suited for short trips where employees do not need to spend time charging, it seems many business fleets are ideally poised to substitute at least some ICVs with pure EVs right away, and then gradually transition to a more fully electric fleet as the new long-range EVs become affordable.

The government’s bulk procurement initiative targeted business fleets, to accelerate the supply of second-hand EVs to the New Zealand domestic market when businesses upgrade.  This initiative is on hold for now.  EECA primarily targets consumers in general and has encouraged businesses to add EVs to their fleets, e.g. on social media and by updating the Total Cost of Ownership tool to include EVs.  This is sensible and can take advantage of tax deductions for eroding the higher purchase cost of new EVs.  Data on big business versus private ownership are needed (the Flip the Fleet database is obviously heavily biased towards home and small business owners), but our impression is that the main uptake so far is driven by family ownership.  Advocacy of “EVs as a second car for families” could be very successful, because it reduces risk, fits nicely into a household’s vehicle replacement programme, and matches New Zealander’s tradition of owning cars until they are comparatively old.

Are PHEVs a necessary phase in transitioning to EVs?

Are PHEVs the best of both worlds, or an expensive and less environmentally beneficial option than pure EVs? This question has arisen in many 1-click surveys and was the main focus of a survey in October 2017 (https://flipthefleet.org/2017/1-click-survey-12/).

More GHG is emitted when manufacturing both propulsion systems in a PHEV. However, PHEV batteries are usually smaller than EV batteries, so the relative net GHG emitted at manufacture is not certain and will vary between models. PHEVs cost more in repairs and maintenance and EVs are expected to last longer than PHEVs, although the jury is still out on battery renewals.

This month’s survey indicates the efficacy of the PHEV hinges mainly on whether a household can manage on one vehicle and whether it needs to have the capabilities of an ICV and EV in a PHEV configuration. If choosing a PHEV over an EV makes it possible to own just one vehicle, which is run mostly as an EV, then a PHEV may be a net financial and environmental gain over a single EV.

If the household has little need for the PHEV’s ICE propulsion, then a pure EV is likely to be more cost effective. If the household needs two vehicles, then a combo fleet of EV and a PHEV may be the perfect answer, but this occurs in only around 3% of the households that participate in Flip the Fleet (Fig. 1). Instead, many pragmatic families run a virtual hybrid of an EV and an ICV across all the members of the household.   Education and decision tools are needed to help prospective buyers reliably assess whether they really do need a PHEV, an EV and ICV, or just an EV.

Recommendations

1. Focus a communications strategy for encouraging partial and gradual substitution of ICVs with EVs within multicar households .
2. Include calculators to guide families and businesses consider financial and environmental costs, and the benefits of substituting ICVs with either (i) just an EV, (ii) just an PHEV, (iii) a mix of an EV and PHEV, or (iv) a mix of EVs, PHEVs and ICVs.
3. Add more emphasis on the social and personal benefits of EV ownership alongside the more obvious financial and environmental benefits of EV uptake.

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged selection of many of the comments received. We have arranged the topics in order of overall importance signalled by the scores (Fig.1) except that comments for people who chose Not one bit and Unsure appear in their own section at the end.

Concentrating use on the ICE in multicar households

We have 4 drivers in our household, often going different places. We have 2 EVs and 1 ICE. We try to offset as many short trips from the ICE and utilize the EVs to the max. Sometimes the ICE will sit for a week at a time. ● When having the choice between using [our] ICE or EV, the EV will always be used. ● The biggest other shift in our family mobility patterns is transfer of most (around 90%) of our regular local travel to our Leaf – the Subaru must be getting lonely and feeling unloved. Its main function is towing, particularly in autumn when we are planting trees and need the trailer. It’s also handy to have the Subaru to drag bikes into Central Otago. It’s not that we do more kilometres overall now with two cars, more that we concentrate the travel into the EV and scale down the kilometres on the Subaru. ● We make the same trips but now the EV gets used first ● When we had two ICVs they did similar monthly mileages. Since flipping one to EV, the ratio has been about 80/20 EV/ICV ● Use ICE vehicle much less ● I use the Leaf as my first option and the Tiida as a second. ● As we use the EV for most of our travel, we do a lot more kms in it than our ICE ● I do try to use the EV rather than the ICEVs as much as I can. ● We tend to prefer the EV except for the times it would be impractical such as long trips ● Will drive the BEV, in preference to the PHEV on the weekend.

Family co-ordination!

Wife will often steal the EV ● We have to plan more who gets the EV and who gets the ICE (depending on who’s going further to utilise the EV more. ● My wife and I are a pretty effective team – we fit in each other’s need for cars in the daily routine to mainly use the Leaf. That won’t be so easy for couples that are both in fulltime work (we are semi-retired). ● My girlfriend and I will coordinate our trips as much as possible (she has an ICV), so we use my EV more often. ● I think more about travelling and plan better. Because I do not want to drive an ICE, I try to schedule more efficiently so that our EV is used effectively by both of us. So while we are a two-car family, we are actually more a 1.3 car family, in that the ICE is only ever used reluctantly. My wife hates driving it now and I just don’t want to but when needs must… ● Who uses which vehicle, when is the main change. Instead of each of us always using our own vehicle, we try to use the EV as much as possible and on the longer journey if we both need a vehicle at the same time. ● I tend to drive the EV more often if both of us are travelling to town rather than using the ICE vehicle at times, the vehicle my husband drives.

ICEs still rule on the farm

EV has replaced one ICV for nearly all travel except for off-road around the farm. ● SUV now only gets used for real farm work.

ICE still have better grunt and range

I need to use my ICV to tow my trailer, so on those occasions I don’t default to my EV and that makes me sad. ● I own a motorbike but it’s on the market. Our ICV does long trips and tows things. Other than that, it sits in the garage ● We are now a 2 car family. The ICE doesn’t get much use other than for towing, carrying loads and some long journeys. Any change to patterns is really just around structuring long journeys in the EV around fast charge stations. ● I feel generally less comfortable using my ICE now that I have the Leaf, but do use it for trailer towing and the rare longer trip. With ChargeNet now establishing fast chargers in the South Island I will start using the Leaf for long trips soon. ● I use my EV for local travel and I use my IC vehicle for longer distances and to trailer my EV to motorsport events ● I do more travel around town with my EV, but less with ICV, due to being hard to get out of Auckland in the weekends, or come back in. ● When I first got the Nissan Leaf I loved it but not the fact that I couldn’t go long distances without a lot of stops and at that time it was impossible to get to my weekend home in Patearoa; that is what drove me to purchase a Tesla. Now I can do everything I used to do with a fossil fuelled vehicle other than tow a trailer which I don’t do that often. ● Most of our transport is local, and EV is always the first choice. The ICE is kept for towing the boat and otherwise only used by me when the wife has taken the EV to work and I need transport. I don’t bike in winter.

The ICV is back-up when we can’t get the community EV

Our EV is a community vehicle so we still have a back-up ICV for when we can’t get it.

Conventional hybrids are still less efficient than EVs

Our ICE car is a hybrid, non-plug in, so is relatively fuel-efficient, but we now only use it for very long trips (e.g. Wellington to New Plymouth, Taupo or Auckland) and when the two of us need to be in different places at the same time.

Poor, lonely, neglected ICEs!

Use the EV for all local use now, which we didn’t do before, that is we don’t take the ICV at all anymore ● I think a lot of EV owners could drop their old ICE as a second car, but people tend to hang on to them as an insurance policy. We need to send them to the ICE knackers’ yard sooner. ● It seems mad to use an SUV that weighs two tons to go to work and back.

Use the EV to save cost

I have fewer concerns about visiting clients as a result of decreased travel costs ● Because the cost of travel has dropped to about one-sixth of what it cost before (in what was already a miserly petrol user), I have no qualms whatsoever about just hopping in my car and going somewhere, rather than wondering whether it was worth going there. ● I use the EV more than the petrol car to justify the far higher purchase price. ● Both our vehicles are new Mercedes-Benz cars, one of which is the plug-in hybrid. We tend to use it more as it costs so much less to run. The 50 litre fuel tank in the hybrid has allowed us to travel over 500 kilometres in 5 weeks so far, most of which is town use and the tank is just below half full ● With solar, and soon to be Tesla power wall 2, even in winter my EV costs less than 50 % of the cost of Prius. ● We favour using the EV over the ICE car because of the cost savings and efficiency. We also make MORE shortish trips overall by car than we used to because we feel that there is no efficiency or engine-wear down-side in doing so ● It is cheaper and more convenient to use the EV. ● Routine maintenance cost, time and inconvenience has been significantly reduced. ● Before we got a Leaf we would travel between Te Awamutu and Hamilton without thinking about it. Now between my wife and myself we plan our trips to maximise the use of our EV and minimize any use of our ICE car. So overall our kms have dropped mainly due to trying to avoid buying petrol.

The EVs cheaper than public transport

I used to catch public transport to work at a cost of $10 a day. Now I drive for $1.80. My work provides free parking so that and no RUCs have distorted my mode choice. Not ideal but I’ll switch back once RUCs are in.

EVs set me free

As a pensioner for 20 years I have been aware of the costs of using my ICE but now with my solar power I can go wherever I want and not just where I need to, without having to consider the cost. Unfortunately, tend to jump in the EV for short trips when would have biked previously. An unexpected down side of owning an EV. ● Use EV for 40km round trip commute, which I now do more often and more guilt-free. Used to resist driving. Tried an electric bike, but too far (and cold in winter). ● I feel less constrained to use the EV considering its reduced impact on the environment. ● Actually, my answer ‘not one bit’ means that driving an EV has not hindered my mobility at all. But the EV has allowed me to make longer trips more regularly that I would have hesitated to make with a petrol fuelled car. I am on the pension and must count my pennies. Making an hour trip into Wellington to visit my new granddaughter was costly ($20 at least) with my previous car. Now I don’t even think about it and visit when I want. The only difference is that I have to plan ahead and make sure the car is fully charged as I don’t like to fast charge my 30kw battery because I understand it is not so good for battery health.

EV for short; ICE for long

Use the EV more frequently than ICE vehicles for short runs around town that would be uneconomic otherwise. ● I don’t do long trips in my EV but probably more smaller trips as it costs next to nothing to zap around the corner, being rural nearest shop 7 kms away. I go to town, 20 km, I will plan a shop etc around charging EV. ● Use EV for local trips and ICE for long distance trips and work. ● During the weekend I use my EV more than I would have used my ICV. During the week I do have to be careful as I commute about 95km per day. ● I used to commute to work via ICV (130km/day). I now usually use an EV to commute. If my work for the day requires me to take a different route (go to or from work via a meeting somewhere else, I might use the ICV due to range required. ● Other vehicle is a farm truck – it can do long runs but is heavy and noisy. ● I do not use the ICE where possible. ● The EV will not always have the required range for my work and I will swap to a ICV. But I prefer the EV if I can manage. ● We choose to use the EV when we would have used the ICE (Diesel) when visiting my parents. It pays to charge to 100% for this trip. The ICE vehicle is a work vehicle, so it’s really more of a cost to us, but much less than my old petrol car was, and we don’t have to shift the child-restraint around as much (which, I must admit, sucks in a Leaf!). ● The EV is a second car and the ICE car is used for work (longer kms) ● I always drove as much as I needed to before with my ICE car and my EV is a second car (replacing a scooter) so not much has changed in terms of distance travelled. Living on Waiheke Island, range is not an issue. We do though use the EV as our primary car (for 80% of kms covered) so we do use a hugely reduced amount of petrol. ● I am almost retired from paid work and am redirecting routines. We travel very much as we did with 2 ICE vehicles, just use the EV whenever possible and enjoy the lower fuel costs. I use my EV in Matamata, a few kms, and to and from Hamilton and Tauranga as we have in the past. Days are sometimes slightly differently organised so I can recharge if necessary. This has become easier with each trip. For example last week we came out of Hamilton via Innovation Park at Ruakura, to use the free charge point very conveniently available there. ● I do a lot of short local trips. Great not having to go to a gas station to fill up. ● 95% of my driving is around town, well within car’s range. Other few day trips out of town can take EV car or hire an ice car ● I still use my cars as transport just the same as always. My EV is not my only car and I must admit so far it’s not the car I use for out of town trips. Even so around town it’s saving me lots in petrol ● My 2011 Leaf does everything needed for commuting duties that my previous car did. We have a separate car for longer ranges and will replace that with another EV once a cheaper long range capable option becomes available. ● I need to use the ICE for trips out of Auckland. ● I do all long trips in my Toyota Prius and the Nissan Leaf does the daily 115km commute and weekend sport. Top of the South doesn’t have a good enough [rapid charging] network yet for long EV trips.

EVs ideal for commuting

EV is used for commute to work & back – approx 20kms. ● I am a lot more aware of HOW I drive since owning an EV, which is a good thing. ● I retired about the same time as getting the EV. As a result, I have more time to get from A to B and walk or use public transport more. Also, I have a gold card. Apart from this, we use the EV in preference to our Toyota Avensis station wagon – we use the Avensis as a workhorse. We have to plan longer journeys much more in the EV than we used to in the ICV. We also drink more coffee on these journeys. ● Style of driving changed once switched to EV. Much more aware of traffic and judging stopping using regen. ● I bought my EV about a month ago to replace my ICE car for my work commute and it’s been perfect for this. Even though I haven’t changed my patterns of travel, I have noticed a huge change in my patterns of driving. I’m more relaxed, especially in traffic, I’m more aware of my speed, especially on the motorway. I inwardly smile when i pass a petrol station, especially with the increase in fuel costs. Got to say I’m loving it! ● Our Leaf does everything we need. We don’t often do super long drives but when we have done fast charges were always available.

No longer need to multitask on trips

I no longer think about the cost of fuel and am more likely to use the car for trips that I would have previously tied in with other necessary vehicle use. i.e. instead of waiting for the next work trip to go collect something from the supermarket, I’ll simply nip down and pick it up when I need it. ● Short trips I used to avoid in my ICE if they were not completely necessary, or could wait until i had several things to do. Now, I will happily go out for that one thing in my EV, knowing that i am not using petrol. ● I’m happy to go into town and do just one thing now whereas when I had my ICE I planned multiple things because of the cost of petrol.

Better planning for EV trips

We plan more when we take the EV ● I have to plan my trips more carefully and allow more time for travelling (to make sure I have range and re-charging available) when using my EV to go on a trip. ● I have to think ahead a lot more with my EV being the only vehicle. I can’t make extra spontaneous trips. Most of the time I don’t mind at all – it was a nuisance on one occasion. ● We use the EV more than we expected to, but the trips need to be planned more ● All the rest of the time I try to maximise my use of the EV in every way, making as many trips into town as I can (delivering my wife to her job and picking her up again at the end of the day, eg). This frees up the EV for trips I need to make while my wife is at work. I’ll drop back into town whenever it seems necessary – to buy beer or veges or to give a neighbour a lift or to do voluntary work etc. ● I plan transport for my trips more carefully (charging stations etc) ● I have to re-route myself so I can still manage my to and from work travel as well as running around for my child and parent. Unexpected travel is not helpful and I have to use petrol car. ● A little bit of planning required when travelling long distance ● I think a bit more about planning a trip to include charging. ● Have to plan high km days carefully so we don’t run out of power – the odd time this means taking a petrol car instead of our Leaf. This usually only happens a couple of times a month. So range is a slight issue sometimes but may not have bought it if it was more expensive! ● I save up my week day (driving around town) chores and do these on a day we take the ICE into town. ● I find I think more about trips and do more planning but don’t go any less distance.

Peak traffic family bliss

I commute at a different time – on peak without worrying about sitting in traffic wasting fuel or missing out on a car park at work – since they have dedicated EV parking. I do this to take the kids to school x2, we use the EV lane on-ramp, listen to talking books on the journey and I charge the EV at work ● The EV is warmer, drier & cheaper to run. ● I don’t need to think twice about having to do a return trip when children are doing separate activities, where before I would think of taking dinner to town as the cost of the trips would add up and our children would miss out.

Changing the destination to score freebies

Changed places visited due to fast charger placements ● I think more about my travel ● I now have a preference to go to Oamaru rather than Dunedin due to presence of free chargers in Oamaru and Hampden (home is Palmerston) – so trips to Oamaru are effectively free at present.

Smelling the roses

I just love driving my Tesla EV and therefore have no hesitation in jumping in the car and driving near or far I’m more conscious of how I travel. ● I don’t mind taking longer to get to my destination and find I have more enforced rest stops (due to charging) in my EV than in my ICV. I try to consolidate my trips as much as possible to maximise the amount of charge I have at any given time. ● I drive in a more conservative manner and at slightly less than the posted speed allowable. ● I’m happy to go out for drives – on our petrol car we just used to go from A to B; in the EV I’m happy to take the long way around, to enjoy the drive. ● I drive slower and with a lighter foot. I’ve learned how to drive economically ● The EV is so nice to drive, I drive more when I can ● I plan my daily driving much more and allow more time on my slightly longer trips, enjoy the drive more and arrive less stressed. ● We allow more time for charging on longer trips ● Hundreds of times I have passed Mangaweka on way to Wellington (home town grown up in not lived in for >30yrs) and only twice stopped there – on way and on return in EV in 17/18 summer ● We have a greater sense of freedom with our EV, mainly through the dramatic drop in the cost of fuel and maintenance. Our petrol costs alone with our ICE were usually $450/month, but now in the first month of Leaf ownership I’ve spent approximately $45 in electricity (Flick, EV rate), which is an immediate and real cash saving of over $400. Everyone we talk to is amazed. While the financial advantage wasn’t the main appeal in choosing an EV, it has contributed to us travelling more frequently and feeling more relaxed about it. ● The purchase of our PHEV has enabled us to maintain frequent trips to our bach (and associated high mileage) at a much reduced expenditure compared with using our diesel vehicle. ● Still dependent on car transport for getting around. Just pleased I have an EV to complement my existing lifestyle – they have enhanced daily experiences but not modified them. ● Total long distance km haven’t changed much, still go on long trips, but tend to explore more along the way.

Less guilt, more exploring

I often go to places that I wouldn’t bother with an ICE, but driving EV carries less guilt. ● Free charging means I’m keen to get out of town on the weekends with the family and explore beautiful NZ. ● I drive quite a lot and used to always use our diesel 4×4. I’m very happy to drive so much – no emissions, no costs, easy to park, good for school and town runs, great to drive. ● I get a bit lazy when the weather is bad, and take the EV rather than biking to work. The EV unfortunately makes me feel less guilty about driving! ● Having an EV, and charging it from my rooftop panels gives me the feeling that my motoring is free ● EV is so economic my partner and I share it and pick up or drop each other of as required. The ICV has been given to a daughter to use. ● Less reluctant to use the car thanks to negligible running cost, especially for very short trips where an ICE is most inefficient. ● I use the car (EV) more than I did before (ICV), since the cost is so much lower. Previously I would have rationed my trips. ● I used to say no to extra trips in the weekends/school holidays because each trip to town and back was $8… that adds up. Much less now with the EV, so I feel much more relaxed about extra trips within town. ● Feel less guilty about short trips (e.g. shopping). ● I don’t feel any enviro-guilt about using the EV, so a short trip is no big deal any more. More a pleasure, actually. And it’s fun to drive ● Whereas before I might have biked, walked or used public bus, now if I am in a hurry – I use the EV because I don’t have to feel guilty about using fossil fuels and polluting the environment – i.e. I am being green, though now I feel a little bit guilty about the tyres.  ● Will take bike for short trips to shops etc. ● I feel less guilty about driving my EV so where previously I would have consolidated trips in my ICE or used my bike, I now use my EV. Luckily there is no traffic congestion in Chch. ● Having an electric vehicle has allowed me to do what I would regularly have to do anyway, but without the same damaging cost to the wider environment. ● Because my driving patterns haven’t changed. However I am so pleased to be able to use electricity rather than petrol to fuel my car as it is helping the environment. This was our goal in owning our cars and PV panels and LG battery. ● My use of bike has decreased because of weather ● Getting an EV made us a 2 car family. I usually cycle to work except in poor weather. I now use EV instead of bus in poor and doubtful weather.

Less guilt, more short trips

It’s a bit like the days of single car family or car-less days. EVs are guilt free short trips compared to combustion engine short trips. ● I don’t mind short trips round town, knowing my car is not putting out greenhouse gases. ● I certainly drive more now that I have an EV. I always used to hate driving (due to concern of environmental consequences – aka carbon guilt), but now that I have my EV I feel somewhat liberated in that regard. So, as an example, I’ll pick up my kids after school on a rainy day if I can, whereas previously I would have just let them walk in the rain. ● Owning EV means that we can jump into it without thinking about cost and pollution ● Any extra short trips we do instead of walking are guilt free ● Because we live 10km out of town, we used to think twice before making a second daily trip into town, but now we don’t worry about it. ● We drive a lot more than we used to, now the ice cream is more expensive than the trip ● I actually drive more because I see it as a better option than other modes of transport, and also because it’s such a pleasure to drive an electric car and it’s cheaper than an ICE. ● I do lots more short trips. I always warm up my diesel so easier using EV.

Mindfulness in driving

I/we go out less. I travel slower. I think about my day’s needs as a tradesman more thoroughly. I carry fewer tools. ● I use my EV as my primary source of transport in the same way I did my petrol car. I just have to plan more carefully to ensure I have sufficient battery for longer trips. ● Nothing has changed other than the fuel we use and the amount we pay. We think a lot more about how to do a trip than we ever used to. ● I rely primarily on my EV for most trips except longer (i.e. more than a couple of hours out of town). My patterns have changed only to the extent that I spend more time planning trips and try to do more things at once when I am out in order to avoid multiple trips on any given day. ● I know the distance of where things are now. I have to be a little more aware of how and where I am driving to as there is still some planning involved that was not present in ICE life.

Priority transport modes

Order of priority for transport are pushbike, e-bike, EV, then ICV (with eliminations due to constraints). Good for me, wallet and the environment. Constraints are whether I need to take kids, weather, luggage requirements, distance to travel, and availability of each item ● I changed from commuting by motorcycle to commuting by EV. ● Purchased as a city car and working 10/10 ● We don’t have access to any public transport ● The main factor in us using public transport less, however, is that the ORC coincidentally stopped running our bus route (this was very disappointing, as we were regular users).

EV driving is an adventure

We are an EV-only family now. We got rid of the gas guzzler and thought – hey if we need to go on a long trip we’ll just rent a car. But guess what? Over the last six months we’ve driven Christchurch to Invercargill three times and Christchurch to Dunedin once, and each time we just made a long day of it and just took the EV. So we’ve never actually rented an ICE to go on a long trip. EV driving is an adventure, slow driving is fun, and it’s cheap. Whereas the alternative is dirty, noisy, expensive, ho hum – the only upside is it’s a bit quicker, but there is no fun in it otherwise.

No escaping range constraints

It’s far more hassle owning an EV due to always having to consider whether I have enough range left. ● The only disappointment I have in driving an EV is that I purchased with the understanding that I would be able to make trips to the Hokianga, but because the battery has degraded significantly since purchase and 80km of the trip is remote and hilly, I have been unable to make this trip in my EV and have instead had to rely on a petrol vehicle. ● We don’t visit our family in Gore so often because after an 85% charge in Balclutha, Gore is right on the edge of our charge. ● Range anxiety  ● Limited range of our 2011 Leaf means we won’t go to next town for lunch as much as we used to, but we still use the ICE to go long distance ● We ask: can we take the EV on this trip considering time and charging stations. the more fast chargers there are the more we will be able to use the EV. However I don’t tend to do longer journeys, or if we do we use our other vehicle. ● Main changes are keeping any trips into town [37km return] reserved for when more than 50% charge. ● Still have to have an ICE vehicle for inter-city trips. Gen1 Leaf doesn’t have the range, plus fast charging expensive. ● I am much more aware of battery usage. I am on my first road trip in my PHEV and hate using petrol! There just aren’t enough fast chargers and I still haven’t figured how to charge to the max. ● Can’t make it quite as a far out of Wellington in the weekends so have to use other people’s car occasionally. ● Better organised as have a limited range, so all the ducks in a row mean less kilometres over all ● I more carefully measure my commute, as distance is limited by remaining charge – so I likely travel somewhat less overall ● My brother’s family has recently moved from Taranaki to Wellington. With an ICE vehicle I would have driven to Wellington. I wouldn’t attempt to drive my 30kWh Leaf that far. Too many stops to fast charges and range anxiety between chargers. Will look for a budget flight or rental car until I get a next gen EV with better range in future.

Avoiding flying to reduce overall carbon footprint

Having our EV and having my nose rubbed in the CO2 emissions issue by Flip the Fleet has made me travel by car to Christchurch (380km each way) rather than fly for work trips. I am also very reluctant to fly internationally or to conferences around NZ. Realising how little my EV emission saving actually is compared to air travel has definitely brought emissions to front of mind – I was so proud of buying an EV, and still am, but this pride multiplied the disappointment I felt when I realised what I emit by flying. We really need a family dashboard that includes home electricity and firewood use, air travel and the EV. ● I try to fly a lot less than I used to – a consequence of being more aware of the polluting aspect of burning fuel in the plane I’m guessing. But when I did (last weekend first time in ages), I bought some carbon offsets from a third party carbon offset organisation to try and lessen the guilt.

It’s difficult to reduce flying

We’re a long way from our whānau and big-city attractions so we fly about the same amount as we used to (6-8 domestic flights a year), but the EV at least gives us a minor realistic offset on all the days when we don’t fly.

Campervans in the country

Longer trips are usually in campervan. ● When going on longer trips we always use our campervan (diesel) now.

Communal sharing ICE when necessary

As for the other ways, it is mostly about driving style and pace. We have slowed right up, not because we have to, to get the range (that’s hardly ever a problem around home base) but we still drive slower and less aggressively. We also lend our Subaru as often as we can to other EVers – it makes us feel good to share. People are talking a lot about EV ride sharing or communal ownership. That’s ace and good for learning and spreading the word and experience of EVs, but really what we most need are communal ICEs for use in those occasional long trips or towing the trailer. The ideal would be for fewer families to have a car at all, but if they need one, for it to be just an EV, and then to borrow the use of an ICE when it’s absolutely needed. ● Generally the EV advocacy movement, and Flip the Fleet, should pay more attention to the substitution issues: what would an EV replace in a small business or household fleet garage? Are you going to buy a newish car anyway (if so, it’s a no-brainer that the new one is an EV)? What is it costing ($$ and environmentally as far as GHGs go) to drop one old ICE and retain another for towing or long trips compared to stepping from a two-ICE family to a one EV family and then rent or borrow for the occasional ICE journey? ● We have just substituted the EV for our commuting instead of the ICE.

Range and cost is worse in winter

Another 5 kWh of battery or an Ioniq would negate the $2.50 to $3 daily purchase of motor camp power during the off peak battery season….$2 per hour. ● 17.2 kWh per 100 kms compared to 16 kWh in the optimum battery climate.

Less exercise with EV

My motivation to walk to work was often about not using the car. I find I have less guilt and probably use the car more. ● The downside is that I tend to bike a little less when in town. ● Even an EV is not without environmental consequence – 20% of the grid is dirty, energy into making the EV, energy into making/maintaining the infrastructure, and the general anti-community aspects of having busy roads carving up our communities – sigh. And yes, I bike less – again, sigh. ● Previously where I might have biked or biked and bussed to minimise climate change emissions, now I simply take the electric car. ● We try and use the EV for longer trips – i.e. up to 100km return but tend to use the electric bikes for up to 5km or use our old Ford Fiesta for those trips if there is stuff to carry or its too cold and miserable! The flesh is weak.

E-bikes: the new wave?

I ride the push bike, as walking and cycle trails are better established in our town I think the e-bike will attract a new segment of riders. It is sad that I attended a Climate Change Conference last Friday and Saturday, only two attendants arrived on bicycle and there were no facilities to park our bicycles. We chained them to electric poles. This illustrated how Kiwi cities are car-focused. If we were in European city we would have good bicycle paths and good facilities for bicycles. (it is a mind shift away from cars) ● Actually, very little has changed. The main evolution is that we use our e-bikes a LOT more! Otherwise, our Prius hybrid is still available for long-hauls ● Love it so much I did look closely at replacing the ICE with an electric bike, however, we still have teens learning to drive so that may be another year away yet. ● My wife takes the Leaf and I feel guilty taking the Odyssey so I bike more. And it saves parking costs and keeps me fitter.

Motorcycling fun

Still use our motorcycle for our toy and discretionary trips for fun. Though it gets priority over our ICE car as it’s more efficient.

Closer to home

We tend to stay closer to home since going all-EV, mainly due to lack of range in our Gen 1 Leafs, and lack of charging infrastructure at remote destinations. This will improve over time as infrastructure gets better and we learn to be more adventurous with our car’s capabilities. ● I have a PHEV and at weekends more typically drive within the EV range of the vehicle –  plenty to do close enough to home – when it’s largely taking the dog out to river or beach. Open road travel is now reserved for longer weekend of holiday travel, but still have flexibility to go anywhere anytime. ● I go for more drives in local region for the sake of driving and visiting places due to the free feeling of low marginal cost, no emissions and the driving enjoyment of an EV. On some longer holiday trips where EV not practical (about 50% of them) we have tried different/unusual rental vehicles for the fun (costs easily covered by EV fuel savings during the year). ● Still learning to deal with range anxiety, especially as we have two large 100km hills between us and town, so just getting to town & home is 40%, without even driving in or around town. ● I mostly restrict my trips to the limited range of my 2011 Leaf. I use my ICE for long trips but try to minimise these. ● My longer trips 60km one way will only be undertaken if I have charging available and have time to charge ● Range anxiety is an issue. Rarely affects us in reality but just conscious of it. 30kw leaf 2016.

Finding the balance

We drive more often now than when we had just ICE vehicles. We used to save up multiple errands for one trip to town. Now we do the opposite and do single errands as they come up and tend to look for excuses to go for a drive. We fly about the same frequency, and never use public transport as it’s not convenient to where we live. We may use more rental cars and flights in the future when the need arises to travel further afield. I do cycle less to work now as it seems silly to leave the EV in the garage when they like to be regularly used, at least in the colder months when cycling can be unpleasant. I tended to cycle more before because I was offsetting fossil fuel pollution and saving money whilst keeping fit – win-win. Now I just wear an EV grin ● We probably go into town (Christchurch, say 8-10km return) a bit more often, say 6-8 times per month compared to previous weekly average with the ICV, as cost is so much lower. Long trips with the EV are few and far between (say 3-4 per year at the moment) and so far limited to one tank full distance and to places where we know a 3 pin plug is available for recharging. As yet we ‘can’t be bothered’ hanging round for an EV recharge so use the ICV for long trips, typically holidays. Mostly we deliberately use the ICV about once a week just to ‘give it a run’ or if a towbar is required. Otherwise it is seldom used except when family return from overseas during the summer months. As retirees, we are conscious of the need to keep using the push bikes for fitness rather than take the easy option with the EV. ● Instead of trying to combine all our short trips into one (eg gym, shopping) we occasionally make 2 trips in our EV. However we still use public transport into Wellington when it suits because of parking. We’ll drive to the train or a suitable bus stop in Petone. ● I mostly restrict my trips to the limited range of my 2011 Leaf. I use my ICE for long trips but try to minimise these.

Changing for charging

My mobility to and from work is very much the same, but there are slight changes if I’m making extra trips in the same day, mainly I’m having to stop and fast charge 10-15min if I’m doing a double trip. E.g. Home, Huntly – Hampton Downs, work, return to home. An addition trip, Home to Hamilton, return is where the additional stop to charge comes into play. ● No fast charge stations yet in critical locations – eg Cheviot, Palmerston. ● I select which vehicle we can use according to where the re charge stations are available. ● Occasionally going to charging stations that are not en-route adds a few more kms. Occasionally take two BEV 5 seaters where before would have taken ICE 7 seater ● I have always planned my trips to reduce the petrol cost wherever possible. On my busiest day running kids around for activities I do have to be careful using the heater as by the end of those days I am usually down to about 19%/about 30k. Which doesn’t leave me a lot to play with if I need to make an extra trip urgently anywhere, (emergency doctors etc!) as I am 7km out of Mosgiel to start with ● I travel to Milton once a quarter and I took my EV down there the first time on a wet windy day and had to charge up at a house as I didn’t think I would get back to Mosgiel and then have time to charge slowly for the rest of the day’s activities. I see there is a charger there now so I need to pluck up courage and go and use it. Thanks for all the work you do in this area and hope the above is useful. ● Just really how I plan my day-to-day trips. I use +-80% of my 24kWh battery most days, with two slow charges at home, although, I don’t have time on a Monday for the day-time charge at home, so I need to build in a rapid charge stop, which is free, so is a great economical choice, but can be a challenge with a toddler. ● More likely to go to a place with destination charging ● Long distance travel (>250km) is the only thing that’s changed for me, but I wouldn’t say it’s more or less frequent with the EV vs. the ICV – just that trip planning is more detailed and a bit more of a chore because my Leaf has only 120km range-per-charge on the motorway. ● Due to the car’s built in thermal protection system, only two consecutive battery quick charges can be performed per trip before the charge speed slows to a snail’s pace to protect the battery. The battery takes many hours to cool down due to its high mass, so this limits the maximum daily travel distance to 320km, at least in the warmer months anyhow. So it’s changed some use patterns and changed some thoughts as to what vehicle mix to use. ● Routes and time allowance now incorporate the need to charge. ● I organise my messages/shopping/dog walks when I travel to Christchurch so that the last one ends up near a charging station so that I can top up before heading home (it’s uphill and uses more charge than the trip in). I sometimes leave my journey till later in the day, waiting for my car to charge from solar. Only minor changes. ● Public transport isn’t really an option for us in a small rural town, either with local trips or off to the city. We still go to places we want, but have had to change our route sometimes to make it between fast chargers. Trips away now take a little longer, which isn’t much of a problem. More public charging stations on main highways would make things easier. ● I now prefer going to malls with free charging (Sylvia Park) or paid rapid charging (Pak n Save, Lincoln Road). Also, since I do not have an option to charge at home (apartment) or at work, I have to make extra trips to charging facilities. ● Overall I might do slightly less travelling as charging is a factor.

Adapting to change

I now live alone. My wife is in care only a short distance away. so I drive less as before I took her for drives, that were not necessary, but to pass the time. I expect it to change again, but not in the near future ● Longer trips take longer because of charging stops ● I find long train trips less tiring than driving – maybe just a case of being 75. ● The trip to New Plymouth is difficult from Auckland. I use more public transport, but, it’s more that I now have a gold card. ● My husband doesn’t drive anymore and I do all the driving therefore, as we cannot change drivers, we do long trips by bus. But I still drive to Taupo and Palmerton North from Hastings. Mostly we do local trips and go to Napier fortnightly. So an EV is ideal for our commuting needs but nice to know we can and do drive further afield from time to time. ● My habit changed with the move to EV. ● Daily pattern remains the same. ● Correlation is not causality. Less mobility etc due to aging and increasing disability.

Cheap and cheerful

Because running our Leaf is so cheap, we don’t hesitate to do any trip in the car. I am more aware of how I travel now that I have an EV. I try to avoid using the ICE car, cycle if possible. But less concerned about taking multiple small trips in the EV, used to be against popping out to the shops knowing that the short trips in the ICE car are the worse bit for wear and emissions ● We don’t think twice about nipping in to town for errands, with minimal guilt! ● Ashamed to say that I do the short 2km trip to school more often now to drop off and pick up the kids. Justify it to myself by the fact that it is a zero emission vehicle, whereas when we had just the ICV I would have made them walk. Maybe I’m just getting soft in my old age. ● I bike for fitness and fun ● My husband has a petrol car and we try as much as practicable to use the EV for local trips when we are out together. Before we would usually go in his car. We both drive the EV ● I’m more likely to take my son directly to football, and without grumbling about his inability to arrange a lift or carpooling. ● I do more unnecessary driving ● It probably looks weird that I do more long trips and kilometres and travel to new places now than before I owned an EV, because anyone would most likely expect the exact opposite, due to range anxiety and lack of charging infrastructure. However, there’s a very simple reason for that – it’s a lot more fun to drive an EV than an ICE, I don’t have to feel bad anymore about driving around for fun, and I enjoy the small challenge to plan my longer trips in a way that I combine charging stops with lunch and tea breaks, short walks or shopping. It just feels like a much more enlightened way to travel. ● We live 20km from our local town and as our electric car is so cheap to run we do not think twice about making a trip to town. ● I tend to use the car more often for local trips since it is cheap to run whereas before I’d plan more carefully ● I do more short trips around town [than previously]. I use EV for traveling to work 105 kms round trip ● Local travel bit more km as always have charge in the car in the morning and don’t look at nearly empty fuel gauge in ICV and worry about cost to fill up. ● I make more short trips than before. ● In addition to using the EV instead of the ICEV wherever possible, we now sometimes make extra trips to town – before we used to try to optimise everything to minimize driving.

Sharing the love

We like to show others that long distances are possible with an EV (e.g. Nelson to Invercargill) so we’ve done some LONG trips. ● We also offer our car for ride sharing on field trips, etc, to give others the experience of riding in an ev. ● In Golden Bay carpooling is common. If I can offer a ride with a smaller carbon footprint than other then I offer my vehicle for the car pool – hence slightly greater distances travelled overall. ● The other interesting thing about my EV is that I have a very different attitude about this car. I want the EV to be a communal car for the family living here. Everyone is free to use the EV when I don’t need it. Limiting carbon is the aim so sharing the EV rather than other family members driving their hybrid or petrol cars makes environmental sense. ● In the tourist season I’m going to drive around our tourist-trap district, picking up hitchhikers and getting them a bit closer to their destinations.

Keen on green

Weather permitting (Wellington?) I try and ride my electric bike as much as possible. I use EV if can’t use bike. ● Never use public transport or rentals. ● My location and lifestyle has changed. I can cycle to town therefore I do and I avoid some longer trips due to the need to use petrol. ● I find myself planning my trips more carefully when using my EV so as not to waste km. This has extended to when I use my ICV through force of habit. ● I felt guilty driving ICEVs in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane during recent trip to Australia but there didn’t seem to be any viable EV option. ● I have ordered a 2018 Leaf and look forward to selling my ICE. ● I am less likely to use ICE vehicles (e.g. taxis etc) and will look for alternatives.

Computing the commuting

A big advantage to me in driving an EV (aside from the obvious reasons ie, environmental impacts and savings in fuel costs) is being able to drive in the EV priority lanes on the motorway onramps. This can sometimes save me about 10 – 15mins in the mornings. ● The EV is used by my wife to commute to work I only use it in the weekend. ● Our EV became our main commuter car, but unexpectedly, it also became the car we take away on holiday. ● I use the Leaf most of the time now rather than my hybrid Prius. The Leaf allows me to use the T2 lanes which reduces my travel time considerably. It is fully charged each morning and there are plenty of free fast chargers on my route. ● We use our EV to replace our petrol car for our commute to and from work, so it hasn’t changed our patterns but hopefully has decreased our footprint on the Earth. ● We use the EV as a short range commute vehicle. The petrol vehicle we sold before we purchased the EV had exactly the same use. ● My main motivation for buying an EV was for commuting purposes (>95% of my driving) and my work and home locations have not changed. ● I use it as a commute car to get to work and home. We have a second ICE car for all our other long trips and our family of 6. ● While I have changed some habits (looking at gas prices) my commute to work does not have other options with the exception of carpooling. ● I commute 20km to work each day, have done for years. Now I do the commute under electricity, not petrol, but the commute itself hasn’t changed. ● Well we still have another vehicle which is a diesel, so we use this for longer trips. Mostly we use our EV for commuting to work, which hasn’t changed since we bought, except that now we feel better about driving. Public transport is not so much of an option for getting to work where we live unless we had a lot more time to spare. ● I use my car mostly for commuting to work. There are two routes I can take, one is less distance but more time and the other more distance and less time (the choices you get in Auckland traffic). With the cost of petrol no longer an issue I can now choose the more distance/less time option as the cost difference is not the issue it was. ● The trips we take have not really changed – the EV is first and foremost my daily commuting vehicle – but I no longer have the hassles of weekly stops at the petrol station. Sometimes it is necessary to stop for a quick charge, true, but overall much time is saved.

Not for me

I’m not really interested in this data.

Own EV, hire ICE

Purchased to replace ICE for day to day city runs (work, children school, sports, weekend). Will hire car for long distance out of town travel eg 1000+ km round trip to visit grandparents. Happy doing our bit, but Govt needs to ensure EV are not taxed for others’ waste, also ensure power process are not hiked up (evidence that power company want to spend on infrastructure so they can hike up prices – at recent power conference someone came forward and said infrastructure is fine). ● I have essentially replaced the routine ICE trips with my EV which is the vast majority of km I drive. The old ICE is used as a backup car when the primary car (EV) is in use. I have done two 600km trips without the family out of curiosity but I think for long family trips I would either use the ICE car with its bigger boot space or hire a car. ● Basically owning the EV has displaced nearly all local travel of two ICE vehicles. We still have both, as both of us have to travel beyond the range of our gen 1 Leaf, sometimes simultaneously. 15,000km/year that would have been done by either of these is now the Leaf. I am debating whether to sell my car and just hire a car when I need it, and my partner is going to get a hybrid as his next car, next year. But the EV is used as much as possible, so as a second car is doing more kms than the previous ICE.

Smooth transition

I drive my EV exactly the same as I drove my old ICE car. ● I bought a car that could meet 99% of my needs. ● Has a great range, no need to change my habits, also have the luxury of a second vehicle for towing a trailer/boat ● My EV has been a perfect drop-in replacement for 100% of my normal Monday-Friday travel. It also covers about 90% of my weekend travel. And for longer trips (eg 80km+), I would have used by wife’s ICE car previously anyway; I still do that now. ● It’s a fleet car. Business is business regardless of type of car. ● Driving an electric car is the same as a petrol car, except I don’t have to worry about maintenance so much anymore, I can accelerate more easily to join traffic, and, with a bit of planning, I can go anywhere I want. ● I made sure the car could physically go to all the places I go in my day to day traveling. This included trips to Tairua. Stopping for a charge was always a given but as long as it was possible the savings still warranted buying pure electric. ● My EV does everything my old ICE did, there’s no reason to change my mobility patterns. ● I travel 30,000+km per year in our Leaf, mostly taking kids to school, and doing general runs into the city and back (often twice a day from Tai Tapu). Owning an EV hadn’t changed our pattern of travel, as we have another vehicle for the longer journeys, other than not stopping a petrol stations and feeling like I have been mugged. ● The EV simply replaces the petrol car. ● I just do the usual ● My usage has not changed, only the vehicle, so I still got the same places, at the same time. However, there is less noise, less pollution and less cost in my EV. ● Haven’t changed how I use a vehicle but costs a fraction to run. ● We bought the vehicle because we live 30kms from a city and 25kms from an airport. We need to access both the city and the airport often. We purchased this vehicle to reduce our emissions and so we could use some of the electricity we generate at our home. it is also nice to drive.

EV for nearly everything; ICE for big jobs

I guess the main reason is we are a two-car family and choose the most suitable vehicle for the trip we want to do. e.g if we need to tow a trailer or need to go a long distance in a hurry then we use our Kia Sportage. Our first preference is to use the EV whenever possible. ● Mainly local use except occasional trips up to 250km ● 90% of my annual km travelled is within Auckland City boundaries and an EV is perfect. Out of town excursions require more planning but still possible, with our ICE second vehicle only used once in the past 12 months when I forgot to charge the EV. ● We have two cars, a Leaf, and a petrol car, so we choose whichever is most appropriate for a particular journey.

Nothing has changed

I don’t travel more, I don’t travel less, I don’t travel much differently at all. My EV lets me travel just as I did before. ● We purchased our Leaf to replace our Audi A4 which we used for our town driving. We still have a Pajero that we use for long more infrequent trips. Given that we have not changed how we move around much, we just go to the service station a whole lot less. ● Recently, most of our driving has been around the Greater Wellington area, so range isn’t an issue.

Newcomers to EVs

Have only had the EV for 12 days. I typically do 4 – 6 km/day Sun – Fri, so at this point, there are no changes to my mobility/patterns. However, I anticipate trips out of town (5 – 6/year) will change, in that I’ll need to do some fast charging here and there, and remember to factor in the time that will take, along with possibly slower driving speeds. All good for now though, enjoying the car immensely! 🙂 ● I’ve only had the car for two weeks, and I’ve been huddled because of the cold 😉 But I would have been with the old ICE car anyway, so I doubt that the change would have made me less mobile. It’s something only time will reveal. ● We’ve only had the EV for a month. ● We’ve only had our EV for about 7 weeks. So far, owning an EV makes us feel that it’s OK to use a car more often (for short trips), but our behaviour is likely to change more given more time. ● Have only had our EV for ten days. ● There are certainly changes in my car use, but that is likely to be just as much a reflection of my retiring than of buying a PHEV. On the other hand buying a PHEV was partly in recognition that I was going to want to travel more. So the two have gone hand in hand ● Only had an EV for a week.

What should we ask the members next?

Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Thanks team!

Daniel Myall, Henrik Moller, Hannah Gentle, Rebecca Hayter, Megan Reynolds and Dima Ivanov

23 June 2018

Your take-home messages:

Participants see Flip the Fleet as a comprehensive and trusted source of EV data and information but believe that it can play an even bigger role in increasing EV ownership. Credibility is paramount; it has to reflect the good news and the bad in issues affecting EVs in New Zealand.

This month’s poll:

Our nineteenth 1-click survey proposed that “Flip the Fleet project will accelerate EV uptake in NZ.” Participants could choose between the following five options:

(1) Strongly agree

(2) Agree

(3) Neither agree or disagree

(4) Disagree

(5) Strongly disagree

The poll was sent to 798 participants in Flip the Fleet on 25 May 2018. There were 375 responses by 29 May, including 293 who provided detailed comments and answers to 6 other questions.

The large majority (83%) either “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that Flip the Fleet would accelerate EV uptake; 16% “neither agreed nor disagreed”; 1% “disagreed”; and none “strongly disagreed” (Fig. 1).

Fig.1 Responses of 398 participants to the proposition that Flip the Fleet will accelerate EV uptake in New Zealand, May 2018.

This month’s poll was different from usual

The monthly Flip the Fleet survey is usually about you and your EV; this month, we made it all about us. Thank you for your support and suggestions on how to increase our voltage in the EV market. Your responses will be used by Flip the Fleet’s Dima Ivanov and Danial Myall in October when they present two papers on Flip the Fleet to the world’s largest annual four-day EV conference in Kobe, Japan (EVS 31 www.evs31.org – so your collective opinion will count at the hub of international EV manufacture. We promise we’ll revert to a simple, five-second question next month.

Our survey aimed to define what you like and dislike about Flip the Fleet and how we can improve our services to you and prospective EV buyers. Over the coming months we will endeavour to put your advice into action by improving the software and communication of your information, starting with a new performance indicator in this month’s reports: a calculation of the number of pine trees required to sequester the same amount of CO2 you avoid in tailpipe emissions each month.

We are overwhelmed by your responses – there are far more insights here than we can do justice to in just one post. We will concentrate on your answers to the main question about whether Flip the Fleet will make a difference, and drip-feed responses to other questions in future posts.

What makes you click?

Here’s a word cloud of the comments you provided to the main question, using the ‘Wordle’ package: the larger the font, the more times that word appeared in your testimony (Fig. 2). You can see at a glance that our project is EV and people focussed. You referred to information, data, evidence, facts and knowledge as key parts of our purpose and messaging.

This is promoting awareness and supporting decision-making for accelerating EV uptake. As one respondent put it: “It provides independent data regarding EVs without pressure from salesmen.” “The program is data and science-based and therefore has credibility with members of the public who are considering purchasing an EV,” said another. And another: “The project cuts through the myths and misinformation about EVs.”  There was recurring comment about the value of local New Zealand evidence – that EVs fit into our own place and lives.

Figure 2: A word cloud of the most frequent 100 words used in your responses to the main question of the survey. The larger the word, the more often you mentioned it.

But some cautioned: “The problem for Flip the Fleet is that it is an advocacy project and its contributors have a strong advocacy/evangelical position. Consequently, the publications of Flip the Fleet reflect that attitude and it’s difficult for the wider public to take them seriously.”

That’s a valid point. Flip the Fleet needs to share the bad news with the good: the recent Nissan Leaf battery issue is the prime example: “The honesty of highlighting the issues with the 30KW battery reassures people that Flip the Fleet can be trusted.” But there is also danger here: “Revealing the Leaf 30kwh battery degradation issue is a good thing, but it also has the potential to be overblown and to become a huge anti-EV argument ‘all batteries degrade within 2 years’ etc.”

Similarly, last month’s survey on charging systems revealed congestion, difficulty with access and faults in some areas – it was negative news, but to be resolved, it needs to be in the public arena and backed up by solid data. Flip the Fleet’s data is provided by New Zealand EV owners for New Zealand EV owners. It’s not glossy-brochure data from overseas car markets; it’s dependable, home grown feedback.

Some participants particularly like our mix of numbers and personal testimony from the 1-click surveys. “Partly you are making [EVs] more visible, but also you are providing a scientific approach that will give some people more confidence to switch over to electric. Your combination of personal testimony from the surveys and media spokespeople and the charts and figures is a powerful mix,” said a respondent.

Injecting your information and personal responses into the mainstream media was seen particularly important to avoid just “preaching to the converted”. Flip the Fleet is providing a powerful forum in which to debunk myths: “Every time something about EVs comes up in the media there is an overwhelming flood of negative comment [based on ignorance]. Mostly along the lines of (a) EVs cause more environmental damage than do ICE vehicles, (b) I would never buy an EV because I need greater range and (c) the batteries wear out very quickly and replacement batteries are very expensive. FtF helps provide real life data to counter the existing prejudices.”

Reaching out to the public and prospective buyers of EVs is a first step, but it might lead indirectly to the politicians and policy makers – so it gives EV owners an authoritative political voice. Flip the Fleet’s scientific data will be a force when lobbying the Government and allows owners to voice their opinions, such as: “I for one, seriously doubt if the Government target of 64K electric vehicles on the road by 2021 will be met. The South Island in particular is very poorly served by next to nothing in the fast charge department.”

While your testimony encourages us to keep going, it is mainly valuable for sharpening our work to accelerate EV uptake. Suggestions included polling recent vehicle purchasers who didn’t buy an EV and an app to automatically download data to Flip the Fleet every month. And to present data as a healthy salad rather than a seven-course banquet. “I think you can run the risk of alienating people if you give them too much data as they think that it is a tricky and complicated.” You also want us to be more active in the social networking arenas like Facebook and Twitter.

Some respondents who “neither agreed nor disagreed”, or “disagreed” that Flip the Fleet will accelerate EV uptake signalled out the bad news of the 30 kWh Leaf battery capacity fade for their misgivings.  Some felt it was ill advised to have publicised the battery issue, others believed that it built Flip the Fleet’s credibility, and still others simply stated that the bad news we brought into the public attention has been damaging.  Very few of the others who chose “Neither agree nor disagree”, or “disagree” thought that we were doing anything wrong. Rather, they doubted our efforts could accelerate EV uptake. For some of them, Flip the Fleet has too low a profile to convince them that it will make a substantive difference. Many of these sceptics thought that numbers and the testimony of EV owners, the early adopters, could sway the hearts and minds of the majority (see last month’s survey at https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-18/ for the challenges of moving the “early majority”). For example, one respondent said “While Flip the Fleet provides a very valuable service for EV owners, enthusiasts, and a few interested people, it will probably not be able to reach the masses who desperately need educating about transitioning personal transport from fossil fuel to electricity.” And another said: “Hearts and minds have to be changed. The minds might be supported by the data collected but hearts won’t.”

We agree, the heart is all-important. We were delighted by comments that Flip the Fleet gives EV owners a sense of community – if you meet another EV owner on the street, you might even discuss the latest Flip the Fleet poll. Others referred to using the data in advocacy arguments with colleagues and friends. There are increasing instances in Facebook where individuals have filtered the data in our community’s database and shown the results to others in a particular debate. Go for it! The more you show the evidence to others, the faster we’ll get the job done. We believe that owning an EV is something to be proud of and hope Flip the Fleet’s figures support that.

But mostly, we want it to be enjoyable and informative. From one respondent: “I like Flip the Fleet though. I like geeky numbers and statistics!”

Conclusions and recommendations:

In many ways, you have told us that we’re on the right track. Thanks, that keeps us keeping on.

We have also heard the following recommendations:

• Stand fast on scientific principles – present the evidence, “good” and “bad” news about EVs
• Don’t over complicate the messages: most people out there need to start with the basics
• Don’t swamp people in numbers – keep the mix of practical advice and personal experience coming
• Emphasise the main agenda: getting the messages out to those who haven’t yet considered an EV, let alone bought one
• Complement the excellent work in the mainstream media with more active use of the social media
• Continue to build Flip the Fleet’s profile, especially amongst people who have not yet switched to EVs
• Find ways to intercept the new EV owners and invite them to join Flip the Fleet
• Build more links with the other EV support teams and organisations to avoid duplication and combine strength

And we in turn have some requests of you, the main participants out there that make this all possible:

• Keep the honest testimony coming: brickbats are just as useful as strokes. Your answers are all anonymous. All points of view are welcome
• Please help us by using the data in Facebook and Twitter posts … even send them to Trump if you like!
• Please take the data into your personal submissions to politicians and policy makers – contact us (wecan@flipthefleet.org) if you want a particular analysis and we’ll try to extract what you need if you cannot get it from the database using the Filters and Downloads to Word, Excel or email
• Suggest topics for 1-click surveys, or new EV performance measures
• Give a talk about the Flip the Fleet data in your neighbourhood and own networks! We can supply an annotated PowerPoint slide show to help and then you can overlay it with your local emphasis
• Invite your fellow-EV club members, or friends and colleagues who have an EV to sign-up to Flip the Fleet at flipthefleet.org. We are nearly 900 sign-ups so far, but by the time you slice and dice the sample to look at regional, seasonal, or EV model differences in performance, we end up losing statistical power to look for patterns. The more the merrier and the stronger our collective voice will be.

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged selection of many of the comments received. We have arranged the topics in order of overall importance signalled by the scores (Fig.1) except that the ‘Other category’ appears at the end.

A giant leap for car owners everywhere

“EVs are a relatively new technology on a mass scale as far as the layman is concerned and there is a lot of fuzzy information like battery life and distance anxiety” ● “People need the confidence to believe in what is a radical change in transport thinking. Good quality facts and statistics will go a long way to help people believe” ● “Creating public awareness and demystifying the EV” ● “When you shift from old and well-tried fuel-based technology to the new electric technology by investing in an EV, you need the support of a community and you need knowledge. Flip the Fleet is a key part of that support” ● “Because it will help overcome non-EV drivers’ natural hesitancy toward the idea of changing to EVs with compelling fact-based evidence based on the actual experience of those who have already gone electric” ● “It should help “demystify” electric vehicles for people with an interest in buying one, but perhaps some reluctance to commit to something new, that they don’t understand. If a group of sensible people (!!) have all bought one, maybe it’s safe”

Many people know very little about EVs

“Data-based studies of EV utility, efficiency etc are important to provide a baseline for people who are interested in getting an EV, but know very little about them” ● “Gives much more information to potential EV users” ● “Publicity! Lots of people still don’t know much, or anything, about EVs” ●”It’s helping educate dealers too – many of whom know little about EVs”

Overcoming fear and uncertainty

“Raising awareness of EVs and demystifying the hype and angst” ● “Raising awareness and removing fear of uptake” ● “Information is key for people to make such a major change in their lives that involves financial risk” ● “It provides much needed real-world information on the actual use and lifespan of EVs on NZ’s second hand market. This goes a long way to being able to answer questions and assuage particular concerns about vehicle longevity/performance etc.” ● “Because knowledge helps people become comfortable with EV” ● “EVs are a scary new technology, and on a whole people are inherently wary of such things. I think this is especially true when the current technology (ICE vehicles) is so well known and embedded into our lives” ● “As most EVs are imports, there is a fear of what is normal for the battery condition” ● “It is a forum that gives info out about EVs, alleviates fears and helps with decision making” ● “Because I believe a barrier to uptake is fear, due to lack of knowledge. When people confront the unknown, it helps to have lots of data and stories to boost their confidence” ● “Indirectly. Proper statistics and data analysis will help to combat the fear uncertainty and doubt that will be (and has been) spread by those entrenched in the fossil fuel motoring sector” ● “By collating facts on EVs to counter the fake news in the media and raise awareness” ● “There is a lot misinformation, assumptions and guesswork regarding EVs out there. What is needed is facts. FtF provide that” ● “The results should help with the fear factor for a prospective buyer” ● “Both the consumer and government agencies have access to concise data that strips away all the hyperbole evident in the EV forums” ● “There are many rumours and untruths born out of ignorance of the benefits of EV vehicles and it is only through the purely scientific tests and statistics that we can help provide through Flip the Fleet that will help dispel these myths and rumours. Many of these are voiced by the gatekeepers of the status quo” ● “Because it dispels many of the myths about range anxiety and about what is involved in owning an EV”

Allows people to buy with confidence

“With a rich database of actual, real world data on what to expect from a year/make/model you can have buy in confidence” ● “I think it is one of the things – giving real world experiences – that helps with the unknown that is seen as a blockage to new EV owners” ● “Capturing facts and experiences will guide others to make informed decisions” ● “Local analysis of e car use and battery conditions will give confidence to those considering buying electric vehicles” ● “More information to the people makes for more confident decision making” ● “It will help provide information to people thinking about getting an EV which will help convince them to uptake one” ● “Except for the latest Leaf results, yes. It gives the buyer more info and confidence” ● “The information obtained will help the confidence of potential buyers” ● “I think the level of actual information will be invaluable to buyers wanting the facts and enable them to make informed decisions” ● “For the reassurance it provides from the experience of early users of EVs” ● “I used the data available from Flip-the-fleet when deciding to purchase my Leaf. The data gave me confidence that the real-world range was suitable for my commute, and that the battery degradation with age/use was acceptable to me” ● “The more informed we are the less surprises there should be ● The knowledge gained and shared gives greater confidence to prospective EV buyers” ● “The more information available to the public, the greater confidence we have in our ability to make a good e-car buying decision” ● “A main concern for general population (and some EV owners) is what will happen to batteries over time. Flip the Fleet will help to provide information, hopefully alleviating some of the concern over the unknown” ● “Great data set that helps confidence (particularly for first time buyers) e.g. whether a potential purchase is above average SOH for its age and worth paying more and vice versa”

Making EV owners more informed advocates

“Participation increases knowledge amongst EV owners and that allows them to be more enthusiastic when talking to friends” ● “Not only do we need good, reliable information that is backed by science, we need it in the right people’s hands. As individual owners of EVs we can influence our friends and work mates but the people who meet serious vehicle buyers multiple times a day are the car sales people and by all accounts they are actively discouraging EV purchases which is deeply worrying (see this article https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1116873_car-dealers-push-buyers-away-from-electric-cars-worldwide-not-just-u-s-studies-find).  This evidence comes from overseas but I suspect it’s the same here, with the notable exception of some very forward thinking car dealerships. I live in the Waikato and I have been studying TradeMe for a few months now using my self-styled “Leaf Indicator” which boils down to monthly ad-hoc reviews of the number of Leafs on sale in the Waikato. For 4-5 months now, there have been 5-8 Leafs on sale in the Waikato (right now just 4!). So 0.6% of all the Leafs on sale right now to cover 9.3% of the NZ population! This tin pot research predates the worries re the 30kWh batteries too. It just doesn’t make sense unless there is a serious case of the jitters amongst Waikato car dealers. Flip the Fleet data has an important role here too” ● “Any EV information published helps!” ● “You’re curating valuable evidence to help answer key questions that I had when considering an EV purchase, and that I still have as an EV owner” ● “I think anything that helps people “understand” EVs will lead to more EVs”

Overcoming exaggerations and misinformation on both sides

“They are also important to counter flights of fancy (both negative and positive) about EVs. At present, affordable EVs are not viable in all sectors of light vehicle transport, but they are excellent for short-range travel; less so for long-range travel. Potential users should be made aware of this, but should also be made aware that, in the medium term, EVs will penetrate much further into the general light vehicle sector” ● “Every time something about EVs comes up in the media there is an overwhelming flood of negative comment made. Mostly along the lines of (a) EVs cause more environmental damage than do ICE vehicles, (b) I would never buy an EV because I need greater range and (c) the batteries wear out very quickly and replacement batteries are very expensive. These comments are all based on ignorance. FtF helps provide real life data to counter the existing prejudices .. but it will take time” ● “The more is known about EVs, the better the uptake. The case of them is already compelling. Most of the resistance to EVs is based on a lack of information and this is where FTF comes in” ● “There is so much negativity on social media and the like about EVs – a credible scientific way to refute such nonsense is the way to change people’s perception” ● “The data collected is factual, not anecdotal. There is too much hearsay, along with disinformation caused by general ignorance in the media, but you cannot argue with the numbers generated from such a large sample of users with no hidden agenda. By giving potential EV owners this data they are better able to make informed decisions on the benefits of EV ownership and are therefore more likely to make a purchase” ● “Any EV information published helps!” ● “Presenting the facts to allow us to debunk the conspiracy theorists out there in ICE land…”

Counteracting the EV knockers

“The ‘EV knockers’ I speak to are overwhelmingly ignorant of the facts. Flip the Fleet has access to real time information from EV users. They can counter misinformation and provide education based on actual facts” ● “The data collected is factual, not anecdotal. There is too much hearsay, along with disinformation caused by general ignorance in the media, but you cannot argue with the numbers generated from such a large sample of users with no hidden agenda” ● “The ‘ev knockers’ I speak to are overwhelmingly ignorant of the facts. Flip the Fleet has access to real time information from EV users. They can counter misinformation and provide education based on actual facts. ● Real world data showing the efficacy of EVs for real people here will help overcome reluctance to believe that they can actually get the job done” ● “There is a lot of misinformation and false perceptions about electric cars amongst those people who don’t already own one. I believe it is important to have science-based data available to demonstrate the truth about such matters as battery life, reliability, maintenance cost savings and so forth. Flip the Fleet neatly fills this gap” ● “By providing regular information releases into the media articulating the experiences of their member EV owners. These releases help dispel myths and push-back from the vested interests in petrol vehicles and in “disaster” news” ● “Having true facts and not gossip and rumours will stop all the misinformation and show just how economic it is to go electric” ● “The data that Flip the Fleet is gathering is vitally important for decision makers. But even more importantly, the data and statistics gathered give Flip the Fleet the credibility and authority to speak as experts. You’ve become the go-to people for media coverage of EVs. It is fantastic that you are able to speak knowledgeably and sensibly to the media”

Data for EV owners by EV owners in NZ

“Flip the Fleet is citizen-based, it is not aligned with any company, group, government or organisation. Therefore, what you get is fact-based without any B.S. baggage!” ● “Collecting valuable data” ● “Knowledge is powerful. Flip the Fleet works tirelessly to ask good questions, and get clear and relevant answers. GIGO (garbage in garbage out) is averted by knowing what data (distance, consumption, battery degradation) are being collected, and clearly discerning this data into useable and relevant answers to questions like: How far do EV drivers travel on average? What does the health of a LEAF battery tend to look like in New Zealand over a 12 month period? etc. It is all wonderful and we are lucky to have them working so hard to collect and share good accurate information” ● “Knowledge is power” ● “Flip the Fleet is getting real data from ordinary New Zealanders. Their data is a very true representation of what your typical Kiwi can expect from their EV, rather than relying on manufacturers claims and promises based on potentially very different driving conditions to those found in New Zealand” ● “Real data in the NZ environment which shows how the beneficial it is to switch to EVs” ● “Gaining real life data from EV users across the country allows potential adopters of EV to have the information to make the right purchase decision and see the benefits of owning an EV. The research being done is helping with the promotion of EV as EV owners are getting a direct ‘buy in ‘ to their vehicle and are able to talk to non EV owners about the technology” ● “Because it provides accurate, real life NZ experience of using an EV. Scientific research – not propaganda from a car company” ● “It is a collaboration by owners/users and has real data” ● “Provides valuable actual data from EV users” ● “Very important survey information for EV car owners” ● “Shows real, local data to the public concerning EV use in New Zealand conditions” ● “By providing a platform for those who are seeking objective info to aid their decision making re buying their first EV. (Now that your data is open for all to view)” ● “It will provide reliable evidence and information gleaned from people actually driving EVs in NZ” ● “Data. real data, that helps either convince people, or helps people make educated decisions” ● “Real life stats on the number of EV owners in the country and performance of the vehicles in our environment will reassure people that EVs are a realistic option” ● “Shared information that is accurate will support the benefits of EV” ● “We need good evidence by local people in order to build necessary confidence in EV” ● “By supporting EV owners with good data and raising the profile of EVs with good analysis and publishing it” ● “By spreading scientifically valid information on a regular basis that is New Zealand specific” ● “Knowledge is power. Building a database of real results will build confidence in EV performance” ● “The citizen science approach is building a reputation for reliable data, and is not afraid to talk about issues regarding EVs. This builds confidence in a technology that is not well supported by commercial organizations in New Zealand” ● “This is independent EV owners sharing their real life experiences with EVs. With new technology it help to share experiences and help other understand and manage expectations”

Trust in objective facts and numbers

“FtF provides factual basis for the utility and applicability of EV to the motoring public of NZ” ● “Data. The more data you collect, the more accurate the work you do, and therefore the more accurate your advice, marketing, etc will be” ● “We feel more confident in moving to EV when we have objective information available” ● “Clear and credible source of info” ● “Myths will be debunked – real-world experience, off a broad information base, can be made available to all” ● “The program is data and science-based and therefore has credibility with members of the public who are considering purchasing an EV. The project cuts through the myths and misinformation about EVs” ● “Having real statistics for NZ means it’s easier to give accurate and impressive numbers to people” ● “Because it provides information about EVs and their performance” ● “Impartial objective and factual data will be a sound foundation for all those prospective EV owners who need reassurance that this new driving technology is appropriate for them. Being non-aligned to “government”, or manufacturers, or any other lobby mean the information can be trusted” ● “We are able to learn from the owners and drivers of EV vehicles rather than salesmen” ● “By dispelling any myths about electric cars and highlighting some of the other advantages of EV ownership such as low maintenance costs” ● “Improve data to prove EVs are good” ● “The perception of the public at large is that the state of batteries and their replacement cost is a serious concern for would-be buyers of EVs. Advice on obtaining the maximum life of a battery and how to drive to get the greatest endurance would be of great benefit in overcoming this inertia, along with cost analysis information on vehicles and availability and types of public chargers. As far as I know, Flip the Fleet is the only organisation collecting and collating data and making it available to the public”

Collects info from a wide demographic

“Because its citizen science status is aggregated information from a wide range of user perspectives – so you are capturing a broad cross section of needs and views. About the only common factor is they are all people who are enthusiastic about EVs. From that data source you are able to find out a lot of the hopes and fears and values of ordinary NZers re EVs, and by reflecting that back to those who might be interested in getting an EV, you answer a lot of their questions – from an audience of their peers”

The broad range of information helps

It’s good that Flip the Fleet reports all aspects of EVs: the money and the green benefits, and what it feels like to own one” ● “We need good stats on EV reliability and costs to get EVs mainstream”

Independent science rules!

“Because it provides accurate, real life NZ experience of using an EV. Scientific research – not propaganda from a car company” ● “1. it is a source of independent information. It is not pushing any particular manufacturer’s spin so it is more credible” ● “It also inspires confidence that hard data is available – both good and bad – more valuable than the word of an EVangelist apparently!” ● “People in NZ feel distanced from vehicle manufacturers and parts suppliers and having access to a body of information about how their vehicle is performing, makes them more confident that they have purchased wisely. It also helps put pressure on vehicle manufacturers to improve their product” ● “By presenting the unbiased information on EV ownership” ● “It is providing unbiased, clear, scientific data and giving consumers trustworthy information to make informed choices” ● “Need a source of reliable independent information. Not afraid of telling the hard facts i.e. issues with battery life” ● “Because their clever research captures information like battery capacity, and many other indicators” ● “Impartial quality information” ● “For me, Flip the Fleet gives me scientific evidence around how EVs behave. It’s easy and normal to say to people when they ask about you driving an EV that the experience is “just wonderful”. That is not convincing enough especially when they ask you “Why?”. Science gives the concrete answers potential EV owners seek” ● “The data you have, will provide a detailed view into NZ EV motoring, efficiencies, and running costs. This will provide future EV adopters with more information to validate their switch to electric” ● “Real data will be convincing” ● “The results of the project partly determines EV uptake, e.g. at the moment the uptake of 30kwh LEAFs is decelerated because of the data submitted. However in the long term, because of increased data and increased knowledge people can make informed decisions on whether an EV will work for them and which one would be most suitable. So overall I’m very positive about the Flip the Fleet project, great idea, but its results will partly determine uptake” ● “By providing data that is independent of sellers/manufacturers thus enabling more informed purchase decisions” ● “Source of reliable and critical scientific information” ● “It provides good scientific data not hearsay of the benefits of an EV” ● “It will give a reliable evidence base for discussions around real world performance and costs” ● “It is a place where potential purchasers can get unbiased information” ● “For those who are already interested in an EV it provide positive feedback” ● “Not enough people seriously consider an EV – until they know someone who has one – then they want independent information” ● “Especially with recent and proposed tax levies on petrol people want to know what the alternatives are” ● “EV owners and potential EV owners are information hungry. FtF provides real info!” ● “Flip the Fleet is independent of sellers of electric vehicles and government rhetoric giving prospective owners a impartial look at what can be achieved” ● “Transparency is the key to this new tech” ● “Providing more information than any car dealer could or would”

Yes, we’re biased, but our data aren’t

“Flip the Fleet provides unbiased information on the technology and performance of EVs at a time when the majority of prospective purchasers are unaware or suspicious of making a change from ICEs” ● “Because it provides independent data regarding EVs without pressure from salesmen. ● Because it is based on facts” ● “Statistics make the public more convinced” ● “People are greatly concerned about how long batteries in EVs will last. Flip; the Fleet data and analysis help people understand the likely lifetime of EV batteries. In the case of some, such as 24 kWh Leaf it is good news; some such as 30 kWh Leaf is not good news”

30 KWh batteries tested Flip the Fleet’s credibility

“We found your data very helpful in deciding to buy an EV and which sort of EV to buy. The data around the Nissan Leaf 30kWh battery was particularly helpful” ● “It has already proven and made us aware that 30 KWh battery has a problem. The research is valuable for new buyers” ● “But it can also cause some harm. Revealing the Leaf 30kwh battery degradation issue is a good thing, but it also has the potential to be overblown and to become a huge anti-EV argument “all batteries degrade within 2 years” etc.” ● “The news about the 30kWh Leaf and Nissans lack of response will have a negative effect on uptake” ● “The negative impact of the Nissan Leaf 30Kwh battery publicity” ● “As with the 30Kwh leaf research, as a citizen science project Flip the Fleet has the potential to retard EV uptake as well” ● “The information gathered will reassure potential buyers of the benefit of EVs. In addition the honesty of highlighting the issues with the 30KW battery reassures people that Flip the Fleet can be trusted” ● “Flip the Fleet revealed the bad news regarding the 30kw battery issue which might damage EV uptake to those sitting on the fence. However the openness and quality of data in general will be reassuring that there is more than hype thus improving uptake. A plus and a minus ends up as neutral” ● “The public statements about poor battery performance of the Nissan leaf 30kwh model has been putting people off them. This was ill-advised and based on poor information quality” ● “Providing evidence of the problems with 30kwh Nissan Leafs, and the resulting publicity, has slowed sales of this model and made people wary of buying Leafs at least and possibly other EVs as well. Still great that FTF did this work and published it” ● “The rapid 30kWh degradation is off putting – particularly when the message is repeated second hand without emphasizing that it is only one model that has this feature. Without FtF we wouldn’t know about this issue” ● “Few who have not already got an EV have even heard of Flip the Fleet. And whatever benefits it provides to those looking to purchase an EV are undone by the actual findings about the accelerated degradation of 30kWh Leafs, I suspect, as people are now holding off on purchasing”

Real New Zealand evidence; proof of fit to our neighbourhood

“Real data in the NZ environment which shows how the beneficial it is to switch to EVs” ● “It is important for prospective buyers to have access to reliable, documented information, to counter all the stories that people tell you when you are thinking about buying, or have already purchased. The general driving public is very ignorant of the facts” ● “Clear and credible source of info” ● “The more accurate knowledge people have the more confidence they will to purchase” ● “Good data will drive behaviour change”

Education potential buyers in a confusing and complex new world

“It educates the public about a paradigm shift for the environment and motoring alike” ● “Gives much more information to potential EV users” ● “People are naturally suspicious of new technologies and buying a car or successive cars, after buying a house, is the most expensive item of expenditure in most families. Partly you are making them more visible, but also you are providing a scientific approach that will give some people, but not all people, more confidence to switch over to electric. Your combination of personal testimony from the surveys and media spokespeople and the charts and figures is a powerful mix” ● “The advice they have available is vital in helping us to make the decision to go EV. They have also provided fantastic advice on how to get the most from our EV and sort issues. The information available is also really helpful when people ask us about EVs” ● “It provides statistical substantiation of the overall performance of EVs in NZ from a user-based perspective. It also gives me personally running performance information that I can use in my conversations with other potential EVers” ● “With the data gained it will help people understand what it is like to drive and operate an electric car, and what you save and what the greenhouse effect is” ● “By raising the general awareness of EVs and providing data which people can use to make educated decisions around choosing EVs” ● “The resources available on the website which I link to a lot when providing information to potential EV owners who ask questions on the different Facebook EV groups I am a member of” ● “Folk are naturally cautious and suspicious of new technology for such a big purchase. The more real life info people get, the more they will realise how viable an option EV is”

Gathering data will speed up development

“Data enables science. Science enables informed decision making” ● “Because it will provide real data about EVs in New Zealand conditions” ● “One of the issues that would help EV sales is reduced servicing time and costs, but I suspect this data will take quite a long time to collect. It currently doesn’t feature much in EV promotions”

Gives owners peace of mind on technical issues

“It provides unbiased information about EVs. This has been very useful in managing to use the EV efficiently. It has also significantly reduced my concerns about some of the practical aspects of using an EV” ● “It can give people some peace of mind around batteries and EV running/maintenance costs, and also reliability” ● “Because the data collected will help potential buyers alleviate anxiety about the new technology” ● “It helps us with simple to digest data and graphics and regular press releases” ● “The website acts to reassure potential purchasers of the merits of EV ownership” ● “It provides a supporting environment for existing owners and reaffirms their decision to buy EV; the existing ownership base are the best evangelists for EV ownership, so if they feel comfortable in their purchase that interest and enthusiasm will be passed on to potential buyers”

Owners teaching owners through social media

“There is the beginnings of people using the data to start answering debates or questions from other EV owners on Facebook. We need more of that – more people actually speaking out from the database so we all become better advocates” ● “The case of the owner who promoted the life of their Leaf battery by keeping it at less than 40% charge was really interesting, and a clue for us all” [this will be referring to the post at: https://flipthefleet.org/2018/early-adopters-as-teachers-a-case-of-extraordinary-care-of-a-leaf-battery/]

It’s more than just about numbers: we are showing what it’s like to own an EV

“The main ‘disadvantage’ with (100%) EVs is the range. The data that is collected and especially the comments will help those who are unsure from this point of view, to see that charging is so simple, with plentiful places to do so” ● “More information will help those umming and ahhing to make a final decision. I expect the results to be positive” ● “The 1-click surveys show the personal dimensions behind the numbers story”

Is Flip the Fleet preaching to the converted?

“Flip the Fleet is directed mainly at people who already own an EV so it is, in a sense, preaching to the converted” ● “In our experience, it’s people who already own EVs who join Flip the Fleet, not vice versa” ● “I suspect that the people interested with Flip the Fleet are the one already convinced by EVs”

Getting the messages out to the non-converted is the key benefit of Flip the Fleet

“The research being done is helping with the promotion of EV as EV owners are getting a direct ‘buy in ‘ to their vehicle and are able to talk to non EV owners about the technology” ● “By giving potential EV owners this data they are better able to make informed decisions on the benefits of EV ownership and are therefore more likely to make a purchase” ● “The more the general public and politicians learn about EVs and their comparative merits, the more logical the switch to EVs will become to them” ● “Participation increases knowledge amongst EV owners and allows them to be more enthusiastic when talking to friends” ● “It is one of the factors that will provide information and propaganda to encourage the adoption of EVs” ● “The more people spreading the word the better – especially when they have actual data” ● “Data from Flip the Fleet are now being used by a wide variety of organisations in New Zealand. This is particularly important with the government organisations because of their influence on the future uptake and promotion of EVs in New Zealand” ● “Because unless you are actually interested in EVs, you won’t bother to read up on all the articles about it. I’ve found from people I talk to about my having an EV that every one of them is very ignorant about how an EV works and isn’t overly interested”

Flip the Fleet is EV HQ in NZ

“Most importantly, Flip the Fleet is a contact point for people to find out about EVs and how they really work in New Zealand. Flip the Fleet seems to have become a default contact for the media about EVs. The media is not always particularly interested in the gory details of the statistics that are being collected, but nevertheless those statistics and the analysis that go with them provide the legitimacy for your team to talk about EVs in the public sphere” ● “Focal point for lobbying, submissions etc.” ● “Because you are very smart, altruistic people who have already done a lot with the few resources that you have” ● “It seems the most well-known and informative site” ● “Data collected here will provide answers to questions about the use of EV vehicles. What are the costs of owning such vehicles, how do they perform, what are the drawbacks and what are the advantages” ● “Accurate information on “new” technology as the BEV is essential to make informed decisions on purchasing and running the cars. FTF gives great on hand statistical information that would take an individual an enormous amount of time to decipher off forums and internet” ● “It’s a NEW ZEALAND based website that comes up when you search EVs. It provides useful and helpful information and support for both potential and current EV owners”

It raises awareness and visibility of EVs

“By raising the general awareness of EVs and providing data which people can use to make educated decisions around choosing EVs” ● “The more people that know about the benefits of EV, the better. It is encouraging to see so many people making the decision to go electric. This is no doubt because of the interest generated by social and other media. I am often approached by people who see my car and want to know all about it” ● “The more unbiased publicity that is generated about EVs the better. Once the idea of an EV penetrates the consciousness people will start to take an interest” ● “Awareness in general and numbers to back the facts that’s EVs are a better alternative” ● “Public awareness will be enhanced” ● “By publishing news items on a regular basis it brings the issue of EVs to the public’s attention” ● “Bring EV awareness” ● “More awareness of EVs to the general public” ● “It promotes the profile of EVs” ● “Flip the Fleet’s advocacy of them in the media ensures that EVs get a higher profile than they would otherwise have” ● “Raising public awareness as regards transport electrification” ● “By increasing overall awareness of EVs”

Confidence in the future of EVs in NZ

“The actual data provides information that the geeks amongst us need to understand how EVs are used, and how they perform. All that critical stuff that ensures our infrastructure will be able to cope with a rapidly increasing EV population” ● “Because the information obtained from Current EV owners can help improve the production of future EVs” ● “We feel more confident in moving to EV when we have objective information available” ● “Future EV buyers want proof that their investment is a wise one. Having access to real-world, NZ based EV fleet data will help them in making the decision – and data will assist in dispelling the seemingly persistent myths about EVs” ● “People are naturally cautious about adopting new technology. One of the barriers to this is having robust and independent information to enable decisions to be made. Whilst everyone wants to adopt the new technology and understands that this is the way things are heading, when to make the change is the key issue. Rumours and unfounded information slows the uptake of new technology. The other important aspect is to ensure that manufacturers back up their electric vehicles not just in the country of origin but also in NZ. The more data collected the more confidence people will gain in the advantages of EV ownership” ● “To be honest we are all still learning how well these cars will perform”

Flip the Fleet on the world stage

“The fact that NZ expertise is respected overseas shows we are an important part of world EV update” ● “The 30 kWh battery alert clearly hit the world stage – and other countries have started polling EV owners about batteries as a result” [we have also had people from UK, Sweden, Spain and USA try to sign up to Flip the Fleet]

Matching EV choice to buyers’ needs

“Gaining real life data from EV users across the country allows potential adopters of EV to have the information to make the right purchase decision and see the benefits of owning an EV” ● “we tend to get lost in the bigger battle – to get more people to buy EVs of any sort.  FtF is helping buyers at a different level – to select the best model for their needs, and the best car of a model for price”

Good use of media to inform the public

“Flip the Fleet gets good publicity from print media which will keep people interested, particularly if they are marginally interested already” ● “Flip the Fleet gets good publicity from print media which will keep people interested particularly if they are marginally interested already” ● “The information received will be collated and this would then show benefits of driving EVs and the savings” ● “It helps provide compelling knowledge bites and graphics that can be used to sell the story” ● “Able to give fact-based insights about owning an EV” ● “I am confident that the data gathered & its interpretation by Flip the Fleet are accurate & representative of the NZ EV experience. My personal experience is very positive & seems to be typical of most. Information from Flip the Fleet appears to reach a large audience via popular media as well as target audiences like government agencies & vehicle manufacturers. Surely if this accurate, good news pervades it will accelerate EV uptake in NZ” ● “By collecting and analysing accurate data to inform a wide variety of audiences” ● “Because it seeks an evidence-based approach to evaluate EV experiences and statistics, and Henrik presents this clearly to media” ● “As more information is collected from EV owners and published, it will inspire others who are not quite sure about taking the final step to EV ownership” ● “FTF has an ongoing media presence and I think NZ will value locally sourced information/experience about real world EV use”

Generates discussion on EVs

“Flip the Fleet data and analysis appear regularly in the media, and every time something is published it generates discussion. In my experience those discussions get people thinking about EVs as a viable option. Without that ‘conversation starter’ I really think many people wouldn’t even consider an EV because it’s too much of an unknown, and in many cases not even on their radar” ● “EVs take a change in perspective; perceived limited range, more thought and planning around longer journeys, the idea of charging at home, etc.” ● “Provides interesting and informative data of why it is good to drive an EV. Also gets the community talking about things EV” ● “Gets people talking about it”

Flip the Fleet is gaining strength

“Citizen science has great attraction now. The data you’re gathering is getting stronger with each month and with each sign-up. The media are on to it now – they know Flip the Fleet is reliable. All these things add momentum but the greatest is word of mouth, I believe. People who are recent adopters tell their mates about Flip the Fleet and that provides encouragement to non-believers to make the switch. Lots of people are wary of being found out in the lunatic fringe, so they wait until things become more mainstream and safe. That’s what Flip the Fleet does”

Gives EV owners a sense of family

“Forming a supportive EV community” ● “Great feeling of community meaning people feel more welcome and in turn will talk with their friends and family about EVs” ● “Flip the Fleet provides a form of engagement for new and existing EV owners to interact with their vehicle and receive detailed information about the benefits it provides the individual, while providing that information to Flip the Fleet allows for more general statistics to be presented to the public” ● “It helps create a sense of community building a momentum, together” ● “The system creates a sense of community, supported by objective independent measurement and collation of the data”

Gives EV owners a separate voice from ICE owners

“It’s also a bit of a battle against the fossil-fuel industry and its cosy relationship with the car industry and car service businesses. Like with climate change and tobacco, the vested interests just have to sow enough seeds of doubt to slow up the change by a lot – they can’t and won’t win the argument in the longer run, but they can make their business last a lot longer by misinformation. Similarly some EV owners exaggerate benefits and discount risks either deliberately as a way to counteract the other side) or subconsciously (we are a passionate bunch). The EV numbers can speak for themselves, but the naysayers and current benefactors sure can poke sticks in the spokes. Flip the Fleet is one of the very few arbiters in the middle and provided they squarely admit the downsides unbiased (like the 30 kWh battery fiasco), then buyers will trust them” ● “It is a collaboration by owners/users and has real data” ● “People in NZ feel distanced from vehicle manufacturers and parts suppliers and having access to a body of information about how their vehicle is performing, makes them more confident that they have purchased wisely. It also helps put pressure on vehicle manufacturers to improve their product”

Good for business

“It allows evidence-based decision making which is required for business uptake”

Promoting care for the environment

“Humanity and our worlds environment need the right decisions” ● “Because it is a great format for discovering what EVs can do for the future of motoring and more importantly the future of planet Earth” ● “Humanity and our world’s environment need the right decisions” ● “By providing statistics on how much CO₂ and money can be saved by switching to electric cars” ● “Timing in any endeavour is critical, so having had a government in denial of Climate Change for so long, there is now a sense of urgency for change and Flip the Fleet allows ordinary people to make a positive contribution from our consumer choices” ● “It has established a good profile for all sorts of questions relating to EVs. It puts the facts out there to inform EV owners and the rest of the nation about the environmental benefits of owning an EV, the technology and what can be done for a more sustainable future”

Benefits for owners and planet

“People need real information as to the benefits of owning an EV car as well as the benefits to the environment” ● “Because Flip the Fleet will increase knowledge of the actual costs, benefits etc of owning an EV”

Helps to convert people from ICE to EV

“Shifts people from petrol and diesel to electric” ● “It provides useful data for people and organizations considering EV adoption” ● “The advice they have available is vital in helping us to make the decision to go EV. They have also provided fantastic advice on how to get the most from our EV and sort issues. The information available is also really helpful when people ask us about EVs” ● “Because it’s helping to bring the concept of non-petrol powered vehicles to the public consciousness” ● “I agree that Flip the Fleet will help accelerate EV uptake in NZ because it gives unbiased data from actual day to day running of EV cars” ● “It also highlights the cost saving and lack of maintenance of EV vehicles” ● “It will improve knowledge on EV running costs and reliability so giving confidence to any future EV owners about moving away from conventional transport” ● “Having Flip the Fleet gives people the opportunity to see what others that have already purchased an electric vehicle share data and comments from their experiences of ownership showing the advantage of ownership” ● “Because for some people reliable data from real world NZ drivers will give them the information they can trust to make the leap” ● “A better question: has Flip the Fleet accelerated NZ knowledge of EVs – and the answer is a resounding yes” ● “There are many reasons why people buy cars, but they all have one thing in common – it’s a big purchase so they don’t want to get it wrong. We all drive petrol cars and unless we are buying our first one, we can pretty much predict how they will behave. But this isn’t the case with EVs so an EV purchase will always be risky to those that don’t already own one. So to give people that confidence so they take the leap, we need a lot of good information and this is where Flip the Fleet comes in” ● “Evidence-based decision making is the benchmark for uptake of EVs by organizations. The more organizations in New Zealand that buy and use EVs, the greater the supply for the New Zealand market which is strongly driven by second-hand sales” ● “As more information is collected from EV owners and published, it will inspire others who are not quite sure about taking the final step to EV ownership”

Helpful for government lobbying

“It is bringing together the thoughts and facts of current owners and these facts are being used in a positive way to influence governments and future EV owners” ● “It gives a robust data set and evidence base that empowers the EV community and helps with any lobbying we might need to do” ● “The more accurate information there is about EV performance in N Z conditions the better case we can make for Government support and promotion”

Flip the Fleet’s shortcomings

“I think you can run the risk of alienating people if you give them too much data as they think that it is a tricky and complicated” ● “Flip the Fleet provides real life data on using EVs in NZ BUT I don’t think this will change the EV uptake. Hearts and minds have to be changed. The minds might be supported by the data collected but hearts won’t” ● “FtF‘s activities have given EVs more exposure in the general media, which might make more people aware of EVs. At the same time, however, people who were already giving EVs consideration may have been made aware that there are pitfalls; e.g. with the Nissan Leaf which is far and away the most popular model” ● “I don’t think there is sufficient knowledge of what Flip the Fleet is doing in the wider community to affect uptake by those who weren’t already interested in the change” ● “Flip the Fleet is primarily interacting with current owners, many of whom are enthusiasts (of EVs), but to accelerate the uptake of EVs it is necessary to persuade the people that currently own ICE vehicles. The information gathered by Flip-the-fleet will be of some value, but there are a few problems that need to be addressed, and these include the high battery cost, the range, recharging, and future taxation” ● “The data collection that Flip the Fleet undertakes is a scientific process and as with any scientific process, the results arrived at should be evaluated in a scientific way and should be uninfluenced by personal sentiment. Thus, whether or not EV uptake will be accelerated, will depend upon the results, both negative and positive, of the scientific process. You can’t pre-guess the results of a scientific process. That is why I neither agree nor disagree” ● “Come on – this is just sideline activity in the early days – the true determinants of widespread uptake will come when automakers start really trying to sell EVs (over ICVE) and the “powers that be” drive widespread EV Public Charging infrastructure” ● “However the lack of a proper public charging infrastructure and the high cost of new electric vehicles will delay uptake. I for one, seriously doubt if the Government target of 64K electric vehicles on the road by 2021 will be met. The South Island in particular is very poorly served by next to nothing in the fast charge department” ● “Generally, people take little notice of science. ● Most people don’t really know what FTF is about” ● “If the general public would make decisions about transport based on data & facts, I would agree with your statement. Unfortunately, most people still make those decisions based on recommendations from friends, colleagues & media or simply their personal preferences or ‘gut feeling’. This is not going to change soon – so, while I personally appreciate what FlipTheFleet is doing (to be able to back my arguments with facts), I don’t think it will influence the NZ public a lot … pump prices are way more influential, in orders of magnitudes” ● “The problem for Flip the Fleet is that it is an advocacy project and its contributors have a strong advocacy/evangelical position. Consequently the publications of Flip the Fleet reflect that attitude and it’s difficult for the wider public to take them seriously” ● “Too many emails” ● “I think the issue of battery life in the Leaf was not well handled so that, on the basis of not convincing evidence (e.g. were the methods for measuring battery life appropriate for the vehicle concerned?) Overall, the publicity appeared like an attack on the integrity of electric vehicles” ● “A lot of people (EV owners) I talk to, don’t even know about FTF, so how should ICE people know about it?” ● “It is quite complicated understanding what you do” ● “I didn’t say “strongly agree” because I think that there are far more factors that influence EV uptake than the statistics that you supply, though of course they are important too” [the respondent chose ‘agree’]

Flip the Fleet is fun

“I like Flip the Fleet, I like geeky numbers and statistics! ● And a big THANKS for all your hard work!!!”

Lovin’ the free online data service

“Having a free online service where you can keep track and monitor a car’s statistics is important” ● “It is a good forum to compare data from around NZ and to see one’s own data over time” ● “The sharing of data regarding the day to day performance and charging informs and educates the contributors and other interested parties”

Logging the data

Lowering the effort to log the data would be great. Anyway to get an app like LeafSpy that collects all trips and sends a monthly summary?” ● “While the first movers will be keen to log and record all the data, the mainstream populace will not care about logging the detail. Just like PlugShare, the enthusiasts will record their activity. Others will just want to get on with living life” ● “Ordinary people don’t care about data or research”

The good and the bad

“There is a dearth of information on the ownership experience in NZ and FlipTheFleet is filling this gap. The data collected here would help consumers make informed choices. However, since this is a research project first, if it uncovers data that is damaging to EV uptake (like with Nissan Leaf 30 KWh), that information should be published too. Such results may slow down EV uptake in the short term but overall it pushes the overall industry forward” ● “The recent engagement with media” ● “LEAF battery problems well publicised and may increase membership following the 30kWh battery issue. Although, actually this might have put some people off electric cars, it raised them in a public sphere which at least means that more people were thinking about them” ● “It will inform the debate, which will help in the long run, but bringing the 30 kWh Leaf issue to fore has probably slowed sales in the short term and spooked many who aren’t aware of the distinctions between models, just that some EVs are having serious issues. It has to be raised of course, but it’s not necessarily increasing the uptake. It is better than it not being raised though, and a bigger backlash coming later on. Flip the Fleet is a great project and very important, but about more than promotion” ● “I think most people have other objections to adoptions which are more important than battery degradation. For example high initial cost – limited range etc. Flip the Fleet will be more valuable for phase existing owners” ● “I Agree, rather than Strongly Agree, because not all information that is being collected is positive. The 30Kwh Leaf battery issue is an obvious example. However knowledge is power – although it doesn’t drive the car! – and good information leads to good decisions. I have no doubt that people uses FtF as a source of that good information” ● “Too complicated working a Leaf Spy and trying to read Japanese dashboard”

Co-ordinating team efforts

“PlugShare is a huge help [for overcoming range anxiety]” ● “Chargenet and BetterNZ Trust, Drive Electric are doing great work too.  Maybe there is opportunity in co-ordinating and helping each other rather than duplicating each other’s work?”

Flip the what?

“I am very happy to take part in Flip the Fleet but I think that New EV owners are unlikely to be aware of it at the time they decide to buy an EV” ● “Flip the Fleet provides the evidence on the reliability and range of EVs in New Zealand. However I do not know whether these data reach anyone except EV or PHEV owners currently” ● “There is no way all NZ EV or LEAF owners can automatically be invited to join ‘Flip the Fleet‘. I only stumbled across it by accident – during a Google search for LEAF information. I don’t know what % of LEAF or EV owners have joined, but I suspect those who have not joined are “don’t know about it” rather than “can’t be bothered”. I would certainly spread the word to other EV owners, but regrettably have met only two; my son and one other.”

Some reasons why respondents neither agree nor disagree that Flip the Fleet is increasing uptake

“While I believe it might play a small role it is a very small aspect in the big picture” ● “I think most EV owners would sign up to Flip the Fleet after purchasing their vehicle, not being aware of it beforehand” ● “I believe that it will be an expanding vehicle fleet in terms of models available and lower cost second hand vehicles that will be the main driver of electric vehicle. Along with the vehicle numbers will come the a associated infrastructure and businesses specialising in servicing and refurbishing the battery packs which will remove any remaining stigma about EV ownership” ● “I think there are lots of other things that will do it, such as word of mouth from exiting EV users, Nissan Leaf Facebook forum etc.” ● “I believe it’s useful for existing owners but don’t think it will increase uptake of EVs” ● “Flip the Fleet promotes EV use, which is expected to help accelerate uptake” ● “However, it’s also published some enlightening data that cast a shadow on an aspect of EVs that newcomers are most worried about i.e. batteries. This is expected to decelerate uptake. That can’t be helped – there is a moral obligation to publish the data, regardless of whether it’s good or bad for uptake” ● “Flip the Fleet is unknown to most, even to people that already drive an EV” ● “There should be much more awareness of it, for example via car dealers and possibly as flyer that is sent to car owners with their renewal for license” ● “I’m not certain whether information gathered is reaching non EV owners, even though Flip the Fleet have media coverage are non EV owners reading the media releases” ● “I think EV uptake is related to emotions rather than science, and the factors that influence people to buy one aren’t affected by the excellent research that you are carrying out” ● “Also it’s hard for me to tell since I’m an owner and contribute to Flip the Fleet but I’m not sure how well-recognised you are, outside of the current owner community. I’ve heard about you on radio, in Consumer, on TV. Many people never watch TV news etc, so I wonder about how you penetrate the Facebook generation when their news feeds are determined largely by what they’ve looked at previously” ● “Currently the “”citizen science”” shows disadvantageous battery longevity for Nissan Leaf 2016 30kW versions. It is possible this public knowledge will prove to be a disincentive for people to switch to EV cars” ● “I don’t see how this can be used to increase EV uptake” ● “FtF will help by providing unbiased data on EV which will assist buying decisions either way – not convinced this will accelerate!” ● “Too soon. Results still evolving – good or bad” ● Other, stronger factors will motivate public to go EV. e.g. Environmental deterioration – [Temperature, weather, rising sea levels, etc].”

When they still buy an ICE

“From the point of increasing sales of EVs, it would be useful to interact with recent vehicle purchasers and ask them why they didn’t buy an EV. That would better identify the issues that need to be addressed” ● “While Flip the Fleet provides a very valuable service for EV owners, enthusiasts, and a few interested people, it will probably not be able to reach the masses who desperately need educating about transitioning personal transport from fossil fuel to electricity. A further acceleration of EV uptake will most likely require monetary incentives (like petrol price hikes and feebate schemes) and government support. The inertia and indifference of a large part of the population is just too great” ● “People are influenced more by the strong advertising for SUV’s and other vehicles with heat engines in them”

What should we ask the members next?

Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Thanks team!

Dima Ivanov, Daniel Myall, Rebecca Hayter, Henrik Moller ands Monica Peters

30 May 2018

Your take-home messages:

NZ owners bought their Battery Electric Vehicle mainly because of its green credentials and lower running costs.  The minority were motivated mainly by the BEV’s smart technology, or its quiet and comfortable ride, and a few primarily for the fast pickup. Women placed relatively more emphasis on green credentials, men more on low cost and smart technology. Older owners particularly appreciated the quiet and comfortable ride.  Marketing messages may need to change to attract the ‘early majority’ of BEV purchasers rather than relying on what motivated this sample of early adopters to lead the charge.

This month’s poll:

Our eighteenth 1-click survey invited the following responses to the statement”

My most important reason for buying an EV/PHEV was its …

(1) fast pick up

(2) smart technology

(3) low running costs

(4) quiet comfortable ride

(5) green credentials

(6) other features (please comment)

The poll was sent on 10 April 2018 to 683 electric vehicle owners who have enrolled in the Flip the Fleet project • 391 owners responded by 17 March 2018 • 225 respondents provided comments for their choice.

The main reason nominated for buying electric vehicles was their green credentials (49%), followed by low running costs (33%). A small proportion of respondents were primarily attracted by their smart technology (7%), quiet and comfortable ride (4%) and fast pick up (1%). Many of the people who chose ‘other’ commented that there was a whole package of reasons for switching over to electric, so they could not single out one as being more important than the others.

Respondents who commented on their reason for choosing electric vehicles were also invited to record their gender and age. Amongst those who commented and provided a gender, 165 (78%) were men, and 49 (22%) were women. A higher proportion of women (80%) chose to buy electric vehicles because of their green credentials than did men (53%; Fig. 2). Men were more likely (34%) to buy an electric vehicle because of their lower running costs than women (17%), and more likely (9%) to choose EVs because of their smart technology than were women (2%).

Fig.1 The main reasons that men and women bought their electric vehicles. This figure excludes those respondents that chose ‘other’.

Age had little effect on the reasons people chose an EV, though those respondents who identified quiet and comfortable ride as their main reason average about 10 years older than those choosing other reasons.

What makes you Click?

Once again, respondents in Flip the Fleet’s monthly poll have proven they are a dynamic, future-oriented lot who should be in charge – no pun intended – of planetary concerns. Here we highlight a few of the more colourful quotes, but the section at the end lets rip with a fuller record of your wonderful responses.

Green credentials

Nearly half the respondents, at 49%, cite the green credentials as their primary reason for buying an EV. For some, the purchase was fuelled by concerns for their immediate environment, to be assured their kids could ride to school in clean air; for others, it was a global concern. “I did it for the good of the planet,” was a common theme. Both are equally valid, since you can’t have one without the other.

Many comments included that it “felt good” or “made them smile” to own an EV – a clear sense of empowerment in the individual making a difference in the face of serious concerns.

How serious? Deadly serious for some.

“The future of individual transportation needs to be sustainable and that would not happen without vigorous technology improvements. Also, without the challenge being put, and attempted to be met, we have no future,” said one, pulling no punches in regard to human survival.

A like-minded soul linked EV ownership to the prevention of war: “I would say that in almost all wars since World War Two, and even World War One and Two, oil played a huge part in the war and after the war to control vast oil reserves. The Syrian war today is an oil war. Russia has an oil/gas pipeline to Europe. The West-friendly Saudi/Kuwait-proposed pipeline route goes through Syria. The Russia-backed proposed Iran pipeline goes through Syria.”

Another cited Donald Trump: “When he was elected, initial despair led to a realisation that we can’t rely on politicians to sort out our environmental issues and it’s up to us.” Buying an electric vehicle is a good step in that direction.

One respondent put it bluntly: “We’re not plants so why would we live in a greenhouse?”

As many respondents of Flip the Fleet have commented, buying an EV is a decisive step in a bigger journey of carbon-reducing practices such as installing solar energy and reducing air miles. It’s getting started that counts; the rest follows naturally – especially as people realise that, in some respects, saving the planet saves money.

Low costs

Low running cost was a prime reason for switching to electric for 33% of respondents. “While being green is very important, it’s no good if you can’t afford it,” said one. Another happy customer who loves every aspect of EVs said: “Low running costs on fuel and servicing would be the number one, however the obvious lack of tailpipe emissions was pretty compelling to get me looking into EVs, and then I drove one… I was 100% sold, the instant torque and silent acceleration was addictive. The other benefits then started to make an impact. Silent ride, lower stress driving, full tank in the morning, lower household power costs at night.”

Many respondents found it tough to single out just one reason for their decision: “I hated sitting in Auckland traffic on the great north-western parking lot, burning fuel. I was spending $80-120/week on petrol. Then we saw the Leaf; suddenly, the hybrids were no longer the option. To be all-electric – we already have solar on our roof, the power to take off like a Porsche, the smoothness of a Rolls Royce, the head space that I need and all our other dreams rolled into one great car, it was a no-brainer after that one test drive. We are literally saving $400-500/month on fuel alone, never mind that lack of other expenses for upkeep of the car. We are not producing any pollution with the car. So we could say all five aspects of the questionnaire were valid reasons for us, but economics was the greatest.”

The cost savings extend well beyond the cost of petrol, including the long-life expectancy of EVs. “Most ICVs die at 250,000 km at 24 years. EVs will double or triple that, so the capital cost is smeared over 30+ years, and in theory the depreciation losses will be way lower.”

Another cashed in his Kiwisaver at retirement to buy an EV. “This was a $30,000 ‘reverse’ investment,” he said. It reduced his outgoings at retirement by $2500 to $3000 per year in saved petrol, oil and maintenance costs and the inconvenience of having his car serviced. “If I had invested the $30,000 principle in a term deposit, I would be lucky to get 4% return and any interest gained would be taxed. Buying the EV represented a tax free 10% annual gain on my ‘investment’.”

Similar savings can be achieved with a mixed fleet: “With four vehicles in the household, we changed one to electric and are on track to save around $3000 per year.”

Other comments included beating the Auckland Regional and proposed government levies, and upgrading to an EV to avoid the increasingly high maintenance costs of ageing ICE cars. Hybrids also scored a mention in regards to maintenance: “We also wanted a vehicle that had less environmental impact so were looking at hybrids until we realised that full BEVs were available and a viable option. A hybrid was still going to have all the ICE maintenance issues as well as possible EV issues. A full BEV, like the Nissan Leaf, removes a lot of the ongoing maintenance issues, has less on-going impact on the environment, and other benefits (quieter running, fast acceleration, etc).”

For more examples of savings, see “Doing the Sums” below in the Comments section.

Smart technology

The smart technology option attracted 7% of all respondents (Fig 1), and especially some men (Fig. 2), including one who quipped: “The geek shall inherit the Earth.”

But smart technology, in this case, is another word for simple, and geekiness is not necessary in owning an EV. “Smart technology is only one reason we bought the car. I could choose all the options; it’s easier on the environment, cheaper to run and a nice ride. It’s easy to drive. There is no complicated technology for a non-techo to have to learn; you just plug it in at home and get in and drive.”

As a developing technology, EVs inevitably still have a way to go in battery technology. It seems that the Flip the Fleet forum is a useful place for owners to air some grumbles.

“Had we been unable to get an electric vehicle that could do my commute (120km), we would have gone for a hybrid to at least cut emissions. However, my car is really, really struggling with the cold weather and will not make it home without an extra charge before heading home – not at all what I was told it would be able to do,” bemoaned one owner.

Despite this, some owners see an EV as future-proofing, by getting comfortable with EV technology before it becomes mainstream with the arrival of faster charging and longer range, which will in turn see ICE cars drop in value. “The ICE car is such dated technology at the end of its life cycle. Who owns a product that’s only 20% efficient?”

The adoption of EV technology by big players such as Air New Zealand and the New Zealand Government is an important endorsement that New Zealand is well on the road to widespread EV ownership.

A quiet comfortable ride:

The quiet, comfortable ride attracted 4% of respondents as a primary reason. It was also noted as a bonus for many others. “Although I’m green, and the car is economic, the main reason was a quiet and sportively driving car. This is especially nice when you’re tired. I’m using the car for commuting.”

This reason was more common amongst older people. An elderly, hearing-impaired couple appreciated the quiet-running of the car, because they can now enjoy a nice chat while driving. How cool is that?

Fast pick up:

Just five people or one percent highlighted the fast pick up/acceleration as the prime reason for buying, but if EVs had extremely slow pick-up, it could possibly be a deterrent.

Other reasons:

There was a serious omission from our poll – safety: “The six-star safety rating of the Leaf – we were expecting our first child at the time of purchase, and couldn’t find a safer car.”

Discussion, conclusions and recommendations:

There is plenty to think about in your scores and comments.

Firstly, the results of this month’s survey backed up some of the assertions made in last month’s one about gender (https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-17/). There is statistically significant evidence here that women are more likely to switch for environmental reasons and men are more attracted to the tech and cost savings (Fig. 2). So although women are equally likely to buy an EV as men, they do so for different reasons. We should target our EV marketing messages accordingly.

One respondent perceptively pointed out that the immediate reason for purchasing an EV is different from a reason for switching: She/he said: “Reason (environmental benefits) is distinct from trigger. I did it now because the technology became sufficiently capable and affordable”. Others pointed out that they finally bought because their old car died or was starting to cost too much. We have met many people who stated that their next car would be an EV but in the meantime there was life left in their old ICE vehicle, or that they wanted to wait until the range or affordability improved – see 1-click survey #11 for details of this strategy https://flipthefleet.org/2017/when-should-people-buy-first-ev/.

Your testimony and the quantification of the benefits that you provide in your monthly uploads provide assurance and confidence to prospective buyers, but as one of you pointed out, it’s the beliefs of the ones following on that count most if we are to accelerate EV uptake: “We really need someone to do the same survey amongst people that are on the brink of switching, or hardly have thought about switching. Last month’s survey about the gender issues was interesting, but really, we need to forget about the petrol heads – figure out what those in a more open frame of mind think and aim the messages at them.” We agree, because as uptake diffuses more into the general population, their reasons for buying (or more importantly, not buying) will be different from you lot that have taken the plunge. There is a lot of research about what affects uptake of new ideas and technologies. An important early model was suggested by Everett Rogers. He recognised several groups of potential adopters (Fig. 3) in which you BEV owners will be considered innovators and experimenters, or early adopters. The next challenge is to get the “early majority” into electric vehicles. If you redraw Rogers’ graph as an uptake curve, it comes out something like Fig. 4. Your help to Flip the Fleet is all about shifting the curves to bring about earlier capture of the benefits and solutions to the urgent environmental problems that many of you have reported here. The main lesson here is that the reasons and relative importance of the motivations will change as we go from left to right in Figure 4. So our messages as a movement might have to change as we bring more people into our club. As the previously mentioned respondent said – maybe we shouldn’t waste breath on the petrol heads (they’ll be laggards in Rogers’ model) and get on with crafting the key messages for the “early majority”.

Figure 3.  E.M. Roger’s “Diffusion of Innovations” model.

Figure 4. The model in Figure 3 has been turned into an uptake curve. With your help we hope to bring the curve forward, to be steeper, and reach a “critical mass” earlier when the uptake has its own momentum without help from the EV community.

Many of you expressed multiple reasons for buying EVs, and that some of the reasons for appreciating the vehicles emerge later (see https://flipthefleet.org/2018/1-click-survey-16/). This is a clear warning, that we have stressed in earlier reports, to not single out just one reason in our communications and advocacy campaigns. It was also obvious that even though people differed in their main reason for taking up EVs, they felt their own reason very keenly indeed. So, whatever your own passion, please don’t think it’s the only reason for buying an BEV and please be careful to not diss other peoples’ beliefs and thinking – we are all in this together.  Whatever your reason for not having a tailpipe, we are all avoiding sending kilograms of GHGs into the atmosphere.

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged selection of many of the comments received. We have arranged the topics in order of overall importance signalled by the scores (Fig.1) except that the ‘Other category’ appears at the end.

Green credentials

Stepping up, doing our bit

“Acutely conscious of climate change and the effect of fossil fuels on that. It seemed to be the way I could personally make the most difference to my carbon footprint” ● “I want to do my part to minimise fossil fuel usage” ● “If we’re going to claim to be clean and green, we need to all walk the talk and this was one way in which I as an individual could contribute. It is also so quiet and smooth to drive that it’s a no-brainer really. And there’s operational cost savings as well” ● “Every single one of us has a part to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Electric cars are a huge step in reducing emissions, and are technologically superior to the internal combustion engine. There’s no downside” ● “Because my motivation always was around concerns re environment issues, however cost has been a very helpful way to sell the EVs to others” ● “I needed to replace my car and wanted one that wasn’t going to contribute to global warming like an ICE does. A very close second was low running costs” ● “Was intending to put PVs on the roof but the car is better for the environment & better for our budget” ● “Because we are very concerned about global warming and want to do what we can in our lives to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions” ● “For several years, we had a sticker on the back of our car. “Our next car will be electric”. Eventually, the old car expired and we got an EV”

Fossil fuels are for dinosaurs

“I was feeling very uncomfortable about how much diesel I was spending traveling for a conservation-allied organisation. When I realised that I could have a car that was green and cost-effective we quickly bought a Leaf then up graded to a Zoe. We have just done over $10,000km in 5 months. The e-car definitely helps reduce our carbon-footprint” ● “Burning carbon based fuels is risky” ● “We wanted to move away from fossil fuels and reduce or impact on the environment. Lower running costs is a bonus”

Dear Earth, we love you

“We now know that humans have put huge pressures on the wellbeing of our planet and we hope that one small step from each of us can mean one huge step from mankind” ● “because I believe that moving away from fossil fuels could play a small part in preventing the human race from making the planet unliveable”

Concerns over climate change

“Renewable energy is the only way to go” ● “The EV offers the opportunity to walk/drive the talk of a transition to a green economy that is required for our Paris Climate agreement targets and for a healthier environment” ● “We don’t have any choices anymore….” ● “The internal combustion engine must be destroyed”

Towards independence

“EVs are definitely not completely ‘green’, but they are a fairly ‘low-inconvenience’ way that the average person can contribute towards a better environmental future, while also enjoying the associated benefits of EV vs ICE – and helping better NZ’s trade deficit situation. We need to reduce our fossil fuel consumption ASAP and EVs are a good start” ● “The current govt focus on public transport is a waste of money unless it provides a significantly favourable, practical alternative to personal (commuter) transport – a situation which in a tiny economy like NZ’s, is not going to happen any time soon for most people, no matter how much taxes are raised. Even larger centres like Auckland have woefully inadequate, frequently unreliable public transport that takes twice as long to reach a destination as the average car, or about the same at peak times. So cars it is for now… they may as well be EVs” ● “We are using an EV is a stepping stone towards justifying the investment in an electricity transmission system where vehicles can store energy and provide it to the national grid at peak times; ie, along with domestic PV electricity production. A decentralised electricity network is desirable for efficiency and in times of national disaster” ● “For me, it’s a mixture of all the above. Including the independence of fuel supply from the rest of the world” ● “Tired of ICE pollution, reliance on fuel imports, use of renewable energy” ● “To highlight my wish to ease our collective dependence on non-renewable resources like oil” ● “I hate the fossil fuel companies most out of all the corporations. Being able to free myself from them is fantastic” ● “We have to reduce our reliance on oil” ● “I have a long term plan to be carbon neutral by 2020 when I will be 80yrs. When my car needed major repairs that was the time to replace with an EV” ● “Simply to save the planet”

The politicians won’t do it for us

“Donald Trump. But seriously, I’ve wanted to be more green but still be mobile for many years. When he was elected, initial despair led to a realisation that we can’t rely on politicians to sort out our environmental issues and it’s up to us” ● “Because I am so extremely concerned that governments and corporations are doing nothing about climate change, environmental degradation, etc”.

The global picture

“The EV offers the opportunity to walk ….drive the talk of a just transition to a green economy that is required for our Paris Climate agreement targets and for a healthier environment” ● “Petrol should be saved for all the other stuff it’s used for. Not ICEs” ● “Keen to be green”

Pioneering spirit
“I spent much more on my vehicle that I would have considered, were it a fossil-fuelled vehicle, and am aware that it takes a dedicated few to open the pathways for others to follow – I would like to count myself amongst those pioneers and am certainly eager to spread the word whenever possible” ● “I wanted to be part of the movement of getting away from using fossil fuels and using better, smarter technology for the future. And this car has all of that and more. It has got the fast pick-up and comfortable, quiet, smooth ride and low running costs. It just makes me smile” ● “I have always hated using so much energy (fossil fuel) to get up a hill then get nothing back going down the other side – except heated up/worn out brake pads. The regen of EVs is great, would like it to be even more efficient” ● “Chosen as a part of my response to the global climate change issue” ● “Because every little bit helps” ● “We wanted to do our bit for the planet while we are still here. Buying an EV went well with PV panels and an LG Chem battery in our garage” ● “I’m in the field of sustainability & concerned about global warming” ● “My second choice would have been cost saving, but petrol is affordable for me. I’m really just keen to play my part in improving the environment, and helping to provide critical mass by being an early(ish) adopter to the change I see as necessary” ● “I work for an organisation that is involved in climate change research and I should walk the talk” ● “It best matches the complex of reasons for choosing an EV”

The air that I breathe

“We do a lot of town driving, kids to and from school etc. We wanted a Leaf so we weren’t contributing to the fumes” ● “Every kilometre I drive my EV is that much less CO2 going into the atmosphere. EVs are the future of climate-friendly transport in NZ” ● “I care very much about the environment; we make so much mess” ● “The reduced environmental impact of an emissions-free vehicle that was also a joy to drive, and cheap to run was a no-brainer to me” ● “People must stop using fossil fuels for transportation. It is not sustainable and also ruins our environment” ● “Hated driving a car prior to the Leaf, knowing I was contributing to greenhouse gas emissions each time I drove the ICE. Not to mention deteriorating air quality of the city”

I’m part of something bigger

“I wanted to ‘do the right thing’ in terms of the environment – zero carbon emissions and exhaust pollution – even though it was not the cheapest option it seemed the right thing to do considering we could afford it. Having said this, since owning an EV I have been really impressed with how quiet and comfortable it is to drive and the acceleration when needed” ● “I like being part of the move to a more sustainable world, in whatever small ways I can. The other benefits are a bonus for me, and some were an unexpected surprise” ● “It was the biggest thing we could do as a household to knock back our collective carbon emissions”

Getting political

“Because I’m not a selfish national voter” ● “I am, in many ways, both conservative and Right Wing: a Blue-Green. I am fortunate in that, whilst I am not rich – never will be – I am have plenty of money to see me through. So why would I not choose a PEV, to set an example and encourage sales and also for a bit of fun in my Old Age – though I do recognize the arguments for a plug-in hybrid. And indeed, it is safe, and is a lot of fun to drive. THANK YOU for the opportunity to comment on my reasons” ● “However I don’t see a swop from petro-cars to electric cars being an answer to the traffic congestion here in Tauranga. We badly need a better public transport system – ELECTRIC of course” ● “Because I think it’s one part of a move away from fossil fuels that needs to happen. A hard choice between this and saving money on running costs” ● “We’re not plants so why would we live in a greenhouse?” ● “Because we must stop burning fossil fuels urgently and we must lead by example”

We don’t have a planet B.

“Global warming is the biggest current threat to the planet. We each need to do everything within our power to address this” ● “Because it’s the future., and this is my way of showing my support” ● “I’ve got kids and wanted to do my piece to leave them a planet worth living in”

Combat climate change – now!

“Climate change requires urgent action. Some scientists believe that even if we stopped burning fossil fuels today, we will still face catastrophic warming” ● “We are constantly looking at how to reduce our carbon impact. Our EV is a big part of this” ● “We’re seriously concerned about climate change and saw this as one way we could reduce our GHG emissions being blessed to live in a country like NZ that has such a high proportion of its electricity generated renewably” ● “My main reason for buying my Leaf was to combat climate change. It seemed the most practical step we could take at home. The EV revolution is especially heartening because it is welling up from the community, just like planting trees. Most of us need a car but not many of us have land for planting a lot of trees, so what possible excuse could we have as a reasonably wealthy family to not switch over to electric. If your question had allowed us to rank several options rather than choosing the most important one, low running costs would have been my second after green credentials because my partner and I are coming into retirement and want to minimise living costs from now on. The comfortable ride idea comes third for me. I don’t care about technology for its own sake, and until EVs arrived had zero interest in cars for their own sake” ● “We are on the cusp of serious global warming. Anything we can do to reduce greenhouse emissions must be done – and promptly” ● “Climate change is the biggest and most immediate existential risk to humanity. It’s important to act and reduce emissions” ● “I am a life-long environmentalist, Green Party member and early Greenpeace member (1973). Reduction of fossil fuel use is a key concern for me as it is a main trigger for climate change” ● “Reduction of GHG emissions is critical” ● “Tricky – all of those listed were relevant to us! Low running costs & NO tailpipe were jointly #1, but we had to choose just one – so GREEN it is…”

Taking the car from carbon footprint

“De-carbonising the fleet is the easiest way to reduce our carbon footprint” ● “Everyone should contribute towards making this planet cleaner. I’m doing my bit by using a zero carbon emission car” ● “Using our PHEV has significantly reduced our carbon emissions. It was expensive but allows us to be able to tell our children: “Hey, we really tried to make a difference” ● “Using an electric car is one of the easiest ways of reducing your carbon emissions” ● “It was the biggest thing we could do as a household to knock back our collective carbon emissions” ● “I wanted to move towards a fossil fuel-free future and I could afford to”

DIY EV

“I have a hobby with building cars. I was keen to build an EV because clearly this is the way of the future, but the parts to build a good one are outside my hobby budget. Unlike an ICE car where good, second hand parts are cheap. Interestingly, you could buy a cheap Leaf for less $ than the basic drive-line parts for an EV project. So, to join the revolution I decided hunt out and purchase the best deal I could get in State of Health (SOH) of the battery; ie, percentage of energy-holding capacity now compared to when car was brand new” ● “I got 72% SOH for $9300 private sale, and drove it home. This car now serves many purposes. Family members use it as their first choice for local travel and I find the whole experience fascinating” ● “As an automotive repair workshop it is one way to enable us to get onboard with the technology in a EV” ● “I wanted something unusual – electric is the way of the future and I was able to build a two seater open roadster with an electric motor and decent performance I don’t think I can beat one of those damn Teslas – but it’s faster than 99% of cars on the road

Make power, not war

“Not supporting the Military Industrial Complex. “Break the Machine” ….. “Break the Oil Machine”. The Military Industrial Complex has brought has a lot to answer for…. How many wars do we, “The West” fight for oil? To enjoy our Standard of Living at the expense of others, we don’t source oil that is environmentally extracted or only sourced from democratic countries. No one asked the gas station where the oil comes from? Much like you ask the restaurant if your fish was caught sustainably. — I would say almost all wars since WW2 and even WW1 and 2 oil played a huge part in the war and after the war the control vast oil reserves. The Syrian war today is an oil war. Russia has an oil / gas pipeline to Europe, The West-friendly Saudi/Kuwait proposed pipeline route goes thru Syria. Russia backed proposed Iran pipeline goes thru Syria. This is an oil war. “Break the Machine”!!! EVs have the best chance to Break the Military Industrial Complex” ● “Reducing imported fuel from foreign trouble makers”

Low Running costs

Minding the wallet

“Save money, save the planet” ● “Petrol costs are going to increase. With EVs you can explore other options; e.g. solar, if electricity becomes expensive” ● “While some of the other choices are important, reducing transport costs was my primary objective” ● “Cheaper to run than my old car” ● “low cost was the most important reason, but all the other options were considerations as well” ● “Low cost is the main real advantage of ownership compared to other vehicles” ●  “EVs are way cheaper to run than a conventional car and this was the main argument I used to convince my wife to make the switch” ● “I’m stingy and my wife is an accountant” ● “The fuel cost for my daily city commute was getting too high. I am also conscious of the environmental impact of my ICE” ● “Low running costs is tightly tied into green credentials. So while the return-on-investment financial calculation is easier to do, I also considered impact in the planet. I went from driving a 2001 4wd station wagon for my 30km round trip daily commute to a 2011 Nissan Leaf – it was a no brainer at a cost of $11,950 for the Leaf” ● “Green credentials are important but I wouldn’t have been able to do it if it didn’t stack up financially” ● “I love the Green credentials too, but ultimately, the low running costs, and maintenance costs are what attracted me” ● “It was getting too expensive to run my petrol car and to do my commute to work. There is only one bus a day from where I live, which would cost $23/day and require me to work at least two hours a day at home. That would not suit my employer and would require my family to take me to and from the bus stop as it would not be a safe cycle ride. However, the green credentials for owning an electric vehicle in NZ ranked up next to the costs. Had we been unable to get an electric vehicle that could do my commute (120km) we would have gone for a hybrid to at least cut emissions. However, my car is really, really struggling with the cold weather and will not make it home without an extra charge before heading home – not at all what I was told it would be able to do :(“ ● “Hard choice between this and finance. I think we may pay more in the long run vs my old ICE, but the cost/benefit was close enough and the green benefits outweigh any added costs”

Good investment

“We have always had older cars which cost a lot to maintain and fuel, especially as they are mostly used for small journeys (more wear, less efficient). So I saw buying an EV as spending money to save money. Minimal pollution was also a large factor” ● “We are saving so much money that the car will pay for itself in very short amount of time” ● “We do around 20,000km per year. The Leaf will pay for itself in about four years” ● “Because EV total cost of ownership are lower than fossil-fuelled cars”

Doing the sums

“Here is a tip for prospective EV purchasers and also my strategy for buying my 2016 Leaf. I decided at retirement in April 2017 that I would cash in my Kiwisaver and use a portion of it to buy an EV. This was a $30,000 ‘reverse’ investment. This meant that I would effectively reduce my financial outgoings at retirement by $2500. to $3000. per year in saved petrol, oil and maintenance costs. If I had invested the $30,000 principle in a term deposit I would be lucky to get 4% return and any interest gained would be taxed. Buying the EV represented a tax free 10% annual gain on my ‘investment’. This is a no brainer from a financial point of view. But remember that my focus is sustainability and carbon reduction. Win-win but really a triple win because my peace of mind has grown exponentially as well” ● “We estimate we are saving around $120 / week on petrol alone (one car replacement, and the second car 50% reduced usage as we use the EV whenever possible” ● “Ongoing costs are very important and outweigh upfront costs where finance options are relatively good. While being green is very important, it’s no good if you can’t afford it. In our case there was a $20 a week difference between the petrol and maintenance costs of the previous vehicle and getting the Leaf with finance” ● “With 4 vehicles in the household, we took the opportunity to change one to electric. We initially calculated that we would save around $3000 per year. After a month of having an electric vehicle we are on track to achieve this” ● “Electric vehicles also have few moving parts which results in less maintenance being required and should also result in a longer life expectancy than fossil fuel vehicles (excluding the batteries at this stage). I have read that they are expected to last for about 800,000 km” ● “Due to very high cost of fuel for daily commute to work and school for the whole family” ● “The public transport cost is even higher when the whole family has to commute” ● “Because that’s why we bought an EV! We must save $40 a week on petrol now and that’s before the Auckland Regional and proposed government levies are introduced” ● “I was sick of spending $100 a week commuting to and from work”

Less to maintain

“Lower running costs and less time spent doing maintenance, etc. It allowed me to take a gamble on a car that cost more up front than I was used to paying and outweighed the other disadvantages such as reduced range” ● “We were looking for a vehicle with lower maintenance costs to replace our Toyota RAV4. We also wanted a vehicle that had less environmental impact so were looking at hybrids until we realised that full BEVs were available and a viable option. A hybrid was still going to have all the ICE maintenance issues as well as possible EV issues. A full BEV, like the Nissan Leaf, removes a lot of the ongoing maintenance issues, has less on-going impact on the environment, and has a number of other benefits (quieter running, fast acceleration, etc)” ● “One reason the running costs are low is because electric motors are considerably more efficient than those that run on fossil fuels. This appeals to me” ● “I was sick of cars that needed lots of maintenance, and I also wanted to reduce our fortnightly expenses on petrol. The environmental reasons were important too, so when I realised the total cost of ownership would be similar over 4-5 years, the low running costs enabled it to happen – to leave behind the headaches of traditional cars, and have something smarter and more eco-friendly” ● “I got tired of forking out large sums for even just routine services and there always seemed to be something that needed renewing”

Solar synergy

“We got solar and we see the car as an extra battery on wheels” ● “In 2005 we installed solar hot water heating and in 2011 we installed a 20 panel PV array on the roof so we can smartly charge the Leaf for ‘free’ when the sun shines. The EV has been one important component in our mission to live lighter on the planet” ● “I believe that a major aspect of curbing Climate Change is to stop burning fossil fuels. I generate most of my recharge electricity from solar panels and most of the grid electricity I use comes from renewable sources” ● “Decided I could make better use of surplus power from my solar panels than selling it back to the power company at 7 cents per unit” ● “Think we might have said before but have had solar panels, vege garden for years, stopped burning coal, try to live lightly on the land so an EV was a part of this evolution. Not purists tho – still have an elderly diesel bus!” ● “soak up excess PV!”

A new car, for less

“I had previously owned an old diesel van which was expensive on fuel. Chose to replace it with an electric van which is cheaper to run” ● “Our old cars were starting to cost us a lot of money, as we were looking to upgrade I did the math on an EV and it stacked up financially despite the higher initial outlay. After a test drive I was very happy with the Leaf and it fit our other requirements for space, comfort, etc, so we went for it” ● “Our old car was dying so we needed a replacement. We started looking at EVs as in a normal week we only do approximately 100-120kms. EVs seemed like a great alternative for this small amount of kms. And we are so pleased we made the change” ● “We do a lot of running around the city and live in Brighton so it is a 36km round trip with up to three trips a day; this adds up in running costs. The last two vehicles we owned had a high maintenance cost and losing the use of the vehicle is an inconvenience with only one vehicle and one driver in the family”

Petrol price hikes

“Petrol was too expensive and only going to get worse Plus charging at home on night rate electricity was cheap power as well” ● “The disparity between petrol and electricity prices was how I justified purchasing a new car that was electric” ● “Never having to buy petrol again was the main reason. Then the low running costs. But I also liked the green aspect of an electric car” ● “Not having to pay high prices for petrol is brilliant” ● “High cost of fuel in the south! Typically, 20 cents more than in Auckland”

All power to electric power

“The cost of fuel is rising and will continue to rise way above the rate of electricity – and you can generate your own electricity” ● “We weren’t using all the power from our PV panels so an EV made sense and I love the smooth quiet performance” ● “Have just passed new WOF and one year of ownership. The only outgoings have been charging which is barely noticeable on home electricity costs and infrequent use of paid DC charging stations”

A quiet and comfortable ride

“As I and my wife are both hearing-impaired, conversation is possible, especially when we drive on Hot seal roads. 85 YR OLD” ● “Small cars are prone to a very harsh ride because of their light weight. A Leaf is heavy and makes it a much more comfortable ride” ● “Now that we have an EV, we are really appreciating the quiet and comfortable drive, but also good performance, low running costs, ease of charging that comes with an EV” ● “Green credentials was just pipped by the quiet, comfortable factor” ● “Best-driving car we have ever had” ● “Although I’m “green”, and the car is economic, the main reason was a quiet and a sportively driving car. This is especially nice when you’re tired”

Smart Technology

“The geek will inherit the Earth” ● “Lifelong interest in electric cars” ● “Smart technology is only one reason we bought the car. I could choose all the options; it’s easier on the environment, cheaper to run and a nice ride. It’s easy to drive. There is no complicated technology for a non-techo to have to learn; you just plug it in at home and get in and drive” ● “Interested in technology and the benefits it can bring to a worried world” ● “Reason (environmental benefits) is distinct from trigger. I did it now because the technology became sufficiently capable and affordable” ● “Green credentials but almost as important was the smart technology” ● “The technology is sufficiently sophisticated at this stage that EV’s are a viable alternative to petrol vehicles. Additionally, at this stage of my life I can afford it” ● “I had been driving a Prius, which I’d had for 11 years, and when I bought it hybrid was the most achievable environmental technology. I drove the Prius until the battery failed and then switched to pure EV 🙂 ● I handed back a company car when I realised I could buy an EV for <$20k and satisfy my curiosity about the technology. I will be better prepared for making a future buying decision when there is more choice” ● “The future of individual transportation needs to be sustainable and that would not happen without vigorous technology improvements. Also, without the challenge being put and attempted to be met we have no future” ● “The ICE car is such dated technology at the end of its life cycle. Who owns a product that’s only 20% efficient?”

Fast pickup

“I love never stopping at a petrol station, the low running cost is awesome and I’m not at all against the environmental benefits, but realistically it’s all about that electric torque” ● “Dragging off others seems a puerile goal. Actually, I get a shock when I inadvertently spin my wheels when taking off at the lights with Drive mode selected. The results of this 1-click survey will be interesting in signalling what motivates the early adopters”

‘Other’ reasons

Baby on board

“The 6-star safety rating of the Leaf – we were expecting our first child at the time of purchase, and couldn’t find a safer car.

Life’s too short, just have some fun!

“Just to have some fun at age 78. Easy driving and low overall running costs”

It feels so good!

“I chose a EV, a Tesla, for its beauty. How it makes me smile. In a word, for fun” ● “It’s a Tesla 😆. I wanted a luxury car and it’s the only EV at the moment that is” ● I really enjoy not contributing to pollution due to petrol cars” ● “It’s wonderful to know that we’ll never use another drop of fossil fuel for our car! Sunshine rules!” ● “It feels like the right thing to do for the future of the planet”

Corporate leadership, Traffic jams, lifestyle considerations

“I saw that big business Air NZ and Government are also getting in behind EV cars” ● “I hated sitting in Auckland traffic on the great north-western parking lot, burning fuel. I was spending $80-120/week on petrol. So when my petrol car died I went looking for a hybrid or electric alternative. I tried the Lexus hybrid and the petrol engine wouldn’t turn off, so that was a huge turn-off to me. Then we saw the Leaf after about two months of searching; suddenly, the hybrids were no longer the option. To be all-electric – we already have solar on our roof, the power to take off like a Porsche, the smoothness of a Rolls Royce, the head space that I need and all our other dreams rolled into one great car, it was a no-brainer after that one test drive. We are literally saving $400-500/month on fuel alone, never mind that lack of other expenses for upkeep of the car. We are not producing any pollution with the car. So we could say all five aspects of the questionnaire were valid reasons for us, but economics was the greatest” ● “Hard to pick which was the “most important” as low running costs were a major consideration as well as green credentials (70-year-old)” ● “It fits my lifestyle and self-sufficiency” ● “Car manufacturing declaring they are going electric and European countries also”

It’s lots of reasons rolled into one package

“My answer would be “all the above” in about equal measure. However, in my opinion, the EV has not really arrived for most consumers because battery technology is still evolving, having been neglected for nearly a century because fossil fuels were easily sourced and so energy-dense. The current energy density of lithium batteries is still too low [over 200km range requires a battery that is impracticably heavy], so the range is too limited if you want to have a single vehicle to meet all your needs. We have retained our ICE [Honda CRV] for longer trips [over 150km]. In reality our EV provides about 95% of our mileage, we far prefer the experience of traveling in the EV and the cost of retaining the CRV is easily off-set by the savings on the cost of running/maintaining the EV [eNV200]” ● “Low running costs on fuel and servicing would be the number one, however the obvious lack of tailpipe emissions was pretty compelling to get me looking into EVs, and then I drove one… I was 100% sold, the instant torque and silent acceleration was addictive. The other benefits then started to make an impact. Silent ride, lower stress driving, full tank in the morning, lower household power costs at night” ● “I drive electric for all the reasons listed above. However, there are mainly other reasons we chose a Leaf, mostly the green credentials” ● “Difficult to choose just one. Also chose because of smart technology and green credentials” ● “Really, the whole package of EV/PHEV appeals. “I could have chosen any or all of the options but Green credentials seemed the most relevant” ● “Well the green credentials were far and away the most important, but all the other reasons given were several layers of icing on a luscious cake” ● “Most of the above (2, 3, 4 and 5). We don’t know what you mean by “fast pick up” – the acceleration? If so, and while that’s nice, it wasn’t a major factor – but the other four all contributed to the decision” ● “A combination of low running costs, green efficiency and way of the future” ● “all the above except point.1 (Fast Pick up)” ● “Because we had an equal combination of 3 and 5 and the fact that we knew our 1999 Nissan Pulsar (manual, ICE) would not last forever, that we are getting older (70s) and are possibly better equipped now to adapt to new motoring ways than we might be in the future” ● “I am in the financial position of being able to do my part in decreasing global warming. We only have one planet – and burning hydrocarbons is having a deleterious effect on the earth and its inhabitants. This was the primary reason for buying a Leaf. But since driving one for a few years the EV gives so much joy – and financial savings”

Comments on our survey

“We really need someone to do the same survey amongst people that are on the brink of switching, or hardly have thought about switching. Last month’s survey about the gender issues was interesting, but really, we need to forget about the petrol heads – figure out what those in a more open frame of mind think and aim the messages at them” ● “Your surveys are ace – keep them coming!” [Thanks! We really enjoy them too – your passion as early adopters is stunning and makes this all worthwhile. And your comments give a human touch to the numbers and power the media releases along]

What should we ask the members next?

This month’s survey topic was suggested by Kathryn Fitzpatrick from EECA’s communications team.  Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Thanks!

From Flip the Fleet, thank you to all EV owners for your scores and comments. Your participation directly contributes to our work in encouraging more EVs on our roads – and taking the ‘car’ from carbon emissions.

This survey was  partly funded by the Government’s Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund, administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

Rebecca Hayter, Henrik Moller, Daniel Myall, Tanya Levshina, and Dima Ivanov

21 April 2018

Your take-home messages:

Cars are no longer just men’s talk – men and women are equally likely to switch to electric vehicles, but often for different reasons. EV advocacy messages need to be more inclusive of both genders and all motivations for switching to electric.

This month’s poll:

Our seventeenth 1-click survey proposed that ” Women and men are equally likely to switch to electric vehicles.”  Participants could choose between the following five options:

(1) Strongly agree

(2) Agree

(3) Neither agree or disagree

(4) Disagree

(5) Strongly disagree

The poll was sent on 14 March 2018 to 537 electric Vehicle (EV) owners and 45 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV, including Range Extenders) owners who have enrolled in the Flip the Fleet project • 313 EV and 19 PHEV owners responded by 19 March 2018 • 112 respondents provided comments for their choice.

Fig.1 Responses of 332 EV or PHEV/REX owners to the proposition that “Women and men are equally likely to switch to electric vehicles.”

Nearly 60% of owners “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that men and women are equally likely to switch to owning an electric vehicle. Just over a fifth (22.6%) “neither agreed nor disagreed”. Of the remainder, nearly 17% “disagreed” with the proposition. Only two respondents “strongly disagreed”. 

Why ask an uncomfortable question like that?

Some respondents didn’t like this month’s 1-click question because they feared it would reinforce stereotypes and alienate some people.  One said “People of any pronoun vary and generalisations could be bruising”. We get that.  However, our main purpose in posing this statement was to raise awareness that our EV communication strategy must be fully inclusive to reach men and women, elderly and the young, the full range of the financial and cultural spectrum.

Some women recently reported feeling excluded by the male-orientation of some of the EV group discussions on Facebook.  Flip the Fleet was criticized for not including women to the same degree as men in their infographics.  It was a fair cop – a retrospective analysis showed that a total of 19 males were depicted, compared to 4 females; and there were 14 males depicted as making statements compared to just 3 females.  Actually, we do not know the gender and identity of who responds to the click surveys, so the quotes are assigned randomly by the artist to a figure.  But the bias was strong and we missed seeing it before now.  This feedback is an important part of our learning curve, especially when many women are leading the charge towards EVs.

We wondered if a lot of other EV advocates are unintentionally talking past a key part of their audience. Also, however uncomfortable the question and your answers, at least this survey gets the issues out of the box to be talked about.

What makes you Click?

This month’s survey rubbed in that most of you believe that women and men are about equally likely to switch to electric vehicles.  A recurring theme was that women were more interested in EVs than traditionally they have been in ordinary cars.  Many of you who disagreed with the statement reckoned that, if anything, women were more receptive than men to the concept of electric vehicles.

Many inspired women and men are passionate EVangelists and working hard to educate others about all the benefits of EVs, including their environmental, financial and high-tech performance.  Obviously support and openness to EVs is a matter of individual values and awareness.  Nevertheless, some respondents expressed strong impressions that men and women, on average, did differ in why they were interested (or not) in EVs.   And throughout you emphasized that even if men and women were equally likely to switch, they probably do so for different reasons.

This is particularly true with environmental consideration which continues to be a strong factor in motivating people to buy an EV or PHEV, but is perceived by many to be a stronger driver for women buyers (others thought the genders were equally supportive of environment). Many men still like the roar and macho image of a fossil-fuelled car, whereas women are less concerned about image associated with a car.  For example, one respondent said: “I think that women are more likely to want to move to an EV, as they are more receptive to keeping the country clean and green for their children. Men frequently associate the car they drive with their ego – and choose inappropriately as a result.”  As another respondent said: “In my personal experience, it’s the women who decide to go electric. The men do as they’re told.”

Several respondents felt that many women are more cautious with new technology, which holds them back in buying an EV. However, as EVs become a more familiar sight on the roads and the number of charging stations increases, we expect to see an even higher percentage of women buying EVs.  The caution around new technology is possibly linked to heightened range anxiety amongst women.  Many respondents commented that it often takes just one test-drive to convert a driver of an ICE vehicle to an EV – especially as many people are surprised by the quick acceleration and power of an EV – so their advice is simple: put a women or a man behind the wheel and the job is done.

Traditionally, men may have been the main decision maker in buying cars – as in many other decisions around the home – but household purchases of EVs generally reflect women having a greater influence in the decision. They are therefore more engaged in their EV, including a basic understanding of how it works, than they may have been with their ICE vehicle, especially as they become familiar with charging it and monitoring its battery power.

One respondent felt women need better education about their EVs: “The female EV owners I have assisted at public chargers knew surprisingly little about the EV they had purchased, which puts them in danger of either being sold a dud and/or unknowingly operating their EV in a manner that would harm the battery and eventually the reputation of EVs when their ownership experience turns negative as a result and they begin to tell their non-EV friends etc.”

Many couples said that even if one partner had driven the switch to an EV, that they both now competed to drive the car. Only a small proportion said their wife was not happy with driving the car and this was mainly due to range anxiety.

Discussion, conclusions and recommendations:

We believe that EV advocates need to target a wide range of potential buyers and to emphasise diverse reasons for why they are such an excellent choice.  If advocacy continues to focus strongly on concern for the environment, the EV movement will quickly run out of customers.  A number of elderly people are members of the EV Glee Club – congratulations are due to Mercury Energy for their recent TV advert that features two old blades on a night out in their EV!  Younger people are particularly open to change – even if they are not buying yet, they might help turn their parents around. As one respondent put it: “The Kids “get it”… they plug in their phone, computer, headphones, etc… so why would you not plug in your car?” And one of our Facebook critics suggested that we should pay more attention to including other sorts of diversity, like ethnicity and culture in how we craft the messages and show the people who have made the shift to electric.

Even though the majority of respondents thought men and women were about equally likely to switch to electric, there were some strongly expressed views that men and women do indeed differ in the ways they see the issues.  So gender matters a lot for some of you, even though that group is a minority. Some of you pointed out the need for more detailed social research to help EV uptake campaigns, and that gender is definitely likely to be an important predictor of the success of the messages. Unbeknown to us when we launched this survey, the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority had already been doing some market research on the gender issue. They found that while men are more likely than women to consider buying a battery EV (31% in October-December 2017), interest from women is growing more quickly – up from 14% in October-December 2016 to 22% a year later.  Clearly you were correct in identifying gathering interest in EVs by women, and your overall observation that women are an increasing and important part of the market was spot on.  Your emphasis on individual variation rather than gender predictors suggests that EV marketing should not be targeted at any particular gender – just that it should take care to not exclude either gender and values –let’s make sure neither women nor men are left out.

Advocacy should target range anxiety, through easy-to-read levels of information, helpful hints and even humour.  Marketing also needs to address the difficulty for some men in letting go of the vroom-vroom. This is more than supposed insecurities around their macho image. Smells, sounds, the mere act of lifting the bonnet to check over the engine in the workshop takes a man back to working on his first car – almost a rite of passage for a young Kiwi bloke who grew up in the 1970s.  The attachment to vroom-vroom will soften as the next generation comes through. The EV market needs to be ready to engage these men so that owning an EV car is a new way of enhancing their self-image.

Inspiring women like Dee West, Kathryn Trounson, Pam McKinlay, Sue Pugmire, Megan Reynolds, Margaret Baker and Chelsea Sexton are just a few of the many examples of women EV community leaders and opinion makers. But how many EV dealers have women on their forecourt selling their cars?  How many adverts and magazine presentations feature women in the EV driver’s seat?  We urge that we make women more visible as sellers, EV service people, experts and spokespeople – and Flip the Fleet needs to include more women speaking up loud in its Infographics and co-presenting its results!

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged record of many of the comments received.

It’s about individual variation, not gender

“Why would there be a difference?” ● “I’ve had equal mocking and interest from both genders!” ● “Environment and finances are two main reasons for switching to an EV – I think these two factors are gender-neutral” ● “There are a number of drivers to making the decision to change: financial, concern for pollution including CO2 emissions etc and all drivers will probably reach their own conclusions, regardless of sex” ● “Switching to an EV is about making a reasoned decision. Reasoned decision making is not exclusive to only one sex” ● “p(switch to EV|male) == p(switch to EV|female) has measure 0” ● “I don’t think gender drives the desire to save money, be a little “greener”…may stats from my regular charging station say 50/50 at moment, n=6 however” ● “From what I’ve seen both women and men are sold on EVs and I see as many women driving a Nissan Leaf as I see men” ● “I think people’s reasons for embracing EVs are many and varied – I doubt gender plays a part. In our house we were equally keen to get onboard but for different reasons. I was interested in the zero emissions angle, my husband the tech (and money saving) aspect”  ● “Of all the EV owners that I have been aware of, there seems to be a fairly even mix of males and females” ● “Way too wide and generalised a hypothesis. My experience suggests there are about equal numbers of female and male EV enthusiasts. Similarly the most trenchant and hidebound cynics include similar numbers of females and males, in my experience” ● “Everyone likes saving money” ● “My husband first got excited about EVs. Not really sure why, but something about them got him going. I took a lot longer as I had all the usual questions – range, cost etc. Then when a female friend got hers I got excited and we bought one. In our case it definitely was not a gender issue, more an issue of one of us is an early adopter and one of us is more reticent! We both love our EV though” ● “We are all individuals, so I don’t think gender will have any material impact on a decision. What would influence it would more likely be economic, environmental and technology, but the weighting of these influences would differ between people” ● “I don’t really see what gender would have to do with what car you pick” ● “Women are equally able to make smart decisions!” ● “Some do, some don’t” ● “My wife had the same level of input into our decision to buy as I. Further, the comments on Facebook EV pages include many women, possibly equal numbers” ● “I’m just going on the number of women and men I see driving Nissan Leafs. It’s roughly 50/50 [this respondent chose ‘1’ – strongly agree]” ● “Well my wife was quite happy when we switched” ● “Because men and woman alike want to improve the environment the car itself won’t be any harder to drive than a fuel operated one, if there is less maintenance for an electric car and no toxic fuels, there should be no issue. The charging of the vehicle as in charging areas will need to be safe for woman if they are not manned” ● “[Men and women equally likely to switch] because it is important for the environment” ● “So far it seems like both male and female opinions are well represented in the NZ EV owners group” ● “I don’t think it’s a gender thing” ● “I don’t have a perception that EV purchases are gender biased, more than I do have a perception. Therefore agree, but not strongly” ● “I think that it’s not your gender that makes you decide whether or not to drive an electric vehicle” ● “I think it depends hugely on an individual’s personality and world view as to whether they are likely to switch or not. I don’t think it has a great deal to do with gender” ● “My answer is based on a two-car, two-person household. We both prefer to use the EV for trips “within range” because it is such a pleasure to drive and far cheaper to run. We only use the petrol vehicle on the rare occasions where the other spouse has the EV or for “out of range” trips where we are not yet prepared to take 30 or more minutes to refuel” ● “I wanted to switch because it was cool and good for the environment. My wife wanted to do it for financial affordability reasons and the environment” ● “Concerns amongst the general population regarding climate change and the costs related to travel, appears to be relatively gender neutral in my opinion” ● “I want the quiet drive and it seems sensible to stop using fossil fuels if a viable alternative is there…” ● “Early adopters of new technology & environmentalists are not gender-biased” ● “I know three Leaf owners and two Outlander PHEV owners and their spouses who do not necessarily share each other’s enthusiasm, but across this sample neither 1 nor 5 is supported!” ● “If sensible people compare their life to date, the effect they are currently making on the world and the savings to be attained for the pocket and the world by changing to EV”

Women are driving the change:

“My experience is that women are more likely to switch to EV. I go to the farmer’s market almost every weekend and promote EVs. Typically, you will have Mum, Dad and the Kids visit our booth. The Kids “get it”… they plug in their phone, computer, headphones, etc… so why would you not plug in your car???… the Mum “gets it”, she wants a car that is safe, practical and saves money…. the Dad rarely if ever “gets it”…. no noise, no smell, no oil, no mess…. how can this be good? The dads are 97.5% likely to be the dinosaur” ● “I think that women are possibly more likely to switch to EVs. Women in my opinion tend to me more passionate about the environmental saving aspects of EVs, the quiet and smooth driving experience of an EV, the less rushed driving experience (having to periodically stop for a recharge on a long trip makes for a more enjoyable travel experience), and less tied to the perceived power of a petrol-guzzler “ ● “I am a woman, and I inspired my male cousin to buy an EV” ● “Most people I speak to about EVs, male and female, are positive about them. Perhaps more women on their own cannot afford them?” ● “I said I strongly agreed because I am a woman owner of an EV. As women get more of the decision-making power and control the $$ more, they will take up this technology as fast as the men. If not faster – but I would say that!” ● “In talking I find women like the idea better” ● “In my personal experience, it’s the women who decide to go electric. The men do as they’re told” ● “Women are smarter than men when it comes to recognising the many advantages of electric vehicles. That’s why the Women’s World Car of the Year (http://www.womensworldcoty.com/) was the Hyundai Ioniq and not a petrol or diesel guzzler?” ● “I know several women who have EVs but no men. That may be biased by many things including knowing more women than men” ● “Men are more conservative in car choice and will take a lot of convincing to change. Women are much more open and practical” ● “I do think in time women may become more likely to switch – just not yet!”

Male and female groupies

“I have been accosted by as many men as women about my car. When I come back to it they are lurking on the sidewalk wanting to talk. They have similar questions and similar goals, how far will it go, does it cost much to charge, does it take long to charge, it is driveable – meaning: is it able to pull the skin off a rice pudding?”

Men are still struggling to grip the EV world?

“Men are more interested in petrol cars than electric, but they’re changing slowly. Women go more on looks of the car than what moves it”

Women are more prone to range anxiety?

“This may sound sexist, but I believe women will prefer the more secure petrol driven options rather than risk range anxiety in a 100% electric vehicle where they could be left at the side of the road. Whereas men may accept the risk and accept that it’s possible to be let stranded. I have to almost force my wife to drive mine, and before she will I have to ensure it has enough charge for her journey. In her petrol car she simply goes to the garage and fills it up when the light comes on” ● “My thoughts are that men are more likely to be comfortable with the “risk” associated with range anxiety” ● “My wife is not so keen on the EV due to range anxiety”

Women are more wary of new technology?

“The experience with a woman I know is a fear that new tech may not be reliable. The fear seems to be that she might get stuck somewhere. It’s unclear that organisations such as AA can help with EVs. I wonder if they intend to offer an emergency battery charge service?” ● “Women are mostly more cautious than men. They are happier with what is familiar. They will note the present small range of choice of EVs in New Zealand, and the higher purchase prices for EVs compared with other vehicles that will do a comparable job. They are also more patient and therefore willing to postpone any switch until a clearer/better picture emerges of battery longevity. Moreover, they are likelier to look for the security of a nationwide network of fast chargers that can cope with demand at all times. The idea of a three-hour journey with kids being extended for an hour or more because a Tesla owner is plugged in at a vital fast charger on a planned and only feasible route is more than enough to make any mother cry “No!” ● “Most of our male friends thinking EV say that it would suit their wives better as they usually do smaller runs than themselves. They would switch to EV if they had a long range for a not too steep price and there were more charging stations”

Women are particularly receptive to EV’s environmental benefits?

“Women, on average, might initiate the discussion about switching to an EV due to in some cases being more environmentally conscious. It will vary substantially on the person!” ● “Women tend to be more conscious of conservation and such like. Men tend to be the ones who would still like an E-type” ● “I think that women are more likely to want to move to an EV, as they are more receptive to keeping the country clean and green for their children” ● “No hard information, but observation tells me that Women are more interested in Environmental Issues, which at this stage I feel is a major driver in EV purchase decision” ● “But maybe the ‘clean and green’ aspect of EV ownership appeals more to women than men? I don’t know” ● “I reckon that women tend to predominate in many environmental issues – around two thirds of the enrolments in environmental courses in our Universities are women, and women consistently score the importance of environmental concerns higher than men. I suspect it’s just the same for the EV case” ● I think, for the most part, men and women are equally likely to change to an EV. But I also believe firmly that women are more concerned about climate change and the future, so maybe slightly more likely to make the change. Maybe…. In our case, I was driving the change at home, and now my partner is a total convert :-)” ● “The most frequently quoted reasons for purchasing an EV are environmental concerns and low running costs. Neither of those has any gender bias and this is borne out from my experience of meeting other EV owners, they are men and women in equal numbers”

Women like quiet, men like the vroom-vroom

“It’s harder for men to let go of the vroom-vroom and the man-versus-machine attitude and see a car for what it really is – a relatively inefficient means of transport that has contributed significantly to environmental and climate issues over the decades and desperately needs to do better and become more efficient. Men are also much less aware of the negative impact caused by cars, and the more passionate male car enthusiasts will probably have a hard time accepting an electric car as being anything else but a toy, even so electric cars are superior in every aspect that counts, as Tesla have proven by pioneering the technology. There are exceptions, of course, but that is the prevailing opinion I’m getting from the men in my neighbourhood and community, and I’m definitely the outcast, being already an EV owner” ● “I think that women may be the ones driving the change to electric. Men and muscles, loud cars etc – while women may really enjoy the peace and quiet of EVs” ● “A lot of males I talk to, like the noise of an ICE car. And they don’t trust the technology of an electric car” ● “In theory, the spread of opinions and motivations to switch to an EV within sexes is probably as big as between sexes. However there may be some additional factors that influence decision-making for men more than women like the ‘status’ a big car provides or the desire for a noisy throbbing engine. Hopefully these are minimal!”

Cars and being macho!

“From my experience of showing people my EV, women are more receptive to the benefits, men are defensive of their macho toys” ● “The EV buyers I know personally are all women. Furthermore, men I have discussed EVs with have occasionally expressed ’emasculation’ concerns, laughable as they are. This suggests that women are more likely to be receptive of the idea of owning an EV” ● “Men frequently associate the car they drive with their ego – and choose inappropriately as a result!” ● “We think the green appeal is gender neutral, even if it comes from different places. Once you’ve driven and EV, the ICE car feels like a clunker. The only problem: my wife and I now both like driving the same car. However we do know blokes who find EVs threatening to their masculine identity. Even blokes who drive clapped out gutless old cars adding noise and fumes to the environment would rather not be seen dead in something smooth, silent clean and fast” ● “Some men are dicks” [!] ● “Car ownership and model choice is predominantly a male obsession, the fact that buying an EV may be improved somewhat by women’s greater empathy for the environment and diminished by male testosterone would not distort the basic premise in my opinion” ● “For women, there is no need to go to a busy gas station and electric cars are so easy to drive. For men, you can’t beat the torque and acceleration”

Tesla testosterone?

“I think guys do like them. My son has one as well, but all the EVs I see around town have women drivers for some reason. Maybe a male would like them more if they could have a Tesla”

Male petrol heads

“Fewer women are petrol heads and are more open minded” ● “Some (not all) men seem to be more ‘petrol head’ than women” ● “I believe men are more reluctant to change – not being a petrol head” ● “Ken thinks men may tend be a bit more “petrol head” in their thinking!” ● “Men are more likely to be “petrol heads” and like the sound of an engine. These are just opinions and have no statistical validity” ● “Basically I believe females are a bit greener and environmentally cleaner. Blokes tend to be a bit more petrol head, grunts diesel.

EVs for work rather than for play?

“Women probably think of a car more as a work and back conveyance with the mandatory shopping integrated with this. Blokes probably do longer trips and are more aware of range anxiety/practicality”

Men are more likely to switch?

“I think men are more likely to switch to electric than women as they are generally more technically minded and more likely to understand the issues of charging, battery health, range etc.” ● “In my experience, in my extended family, women are less likely to be early adopters. But after my wife tried our EV, she takes it in preference to our other car”

Male buying power?

“The capital investment component will favour men, as they still earn more” ● “I bought a Leaf and within 6 months had to buy one for my wife!” ● “It would be difficult to know the answer to this one as we still have a majority of men making these decisions” ● “I’m actually unsure, hence why I went for the non-committal response. I am female and did the whole research and buying process myself. I think in general men probably do more of this, but an EV might be seen as an unmanly car by many thus equalising the task of purchase??”

… or coupled buying power?

“My sample is one family. My wife and I. We were both equally wanted it and were equally happy with the EV purchase. My argument is that a couple will usually make the purchase decision together”

Tantalising technology

“At the moment assessing the feasibility of an EV for typical driving patterns involves a technical language that is generally a bloke zone. When EVs become more broadly accepted, the criteria for choice will become less technical & less gender specific” ● “Really not sure – men may possibly be more techno-minded; women may care more about the future of the planet?” ● “I think men, on average are more attracted to the geekiness of new technology, but I think women, on average, are less attached to the internal combustion engine” ● “I think over all men have marginally less environmental sensitivity than women but a little more technical curiosity”

EVs are easy to drive

“On average, in marriage, the man is the driver. He often uses the car for commuting and is more often engaged in a job where he has to do longer distances, such as selling, services etc., so he would daily do more than the minimal mileage of the electric car. However, there is less mechanical knowledge to learn with the electric car, and it is dead easy to drive and therefore a woman may prefer the electric car. To be fair, I have held a licence for 72 years, so mine is the opinion of an old person”

Women and men are different

“My mental model, which I just made up, would be that men would lead (higher level early adopters), women will then dominate (vehicle choice based on rating environmental concerns higher, IT environment in vehicle, quiet so can talk more easily, marketers will offer design and colour to appeal and men will dominate the groups supporting the last ICE purchases (sort of luddite mentality – sticking with noise and throb as vital macho characteristics … the great outdoors image terrifying nature. Plus, they breakdown and having a vehicle to work on in the garage is an ingrained behaviour for some” ● “Women tend to live longer so the average woman is both older and more conservative” ● “This is entirely anecdotal so take it with a grain of salt, but in my own experience the people who do things for more altruistic reasons, like donating blood or using apps like Waze (which helps other drivers on the road), seem to be male. My feeling is it’ll be the same with EV ownership, but I don’t have enough experience with them to know. I do recall seeing the occasional Facebook post where men joked about having to “try and convince their wives” to let them buy an EV. For example, I’m a regular plasma donor. Maybe it’s just the time of day I donate (straight after work) but whenever I’m there I’d guess that 80% of the other donors are men. It’s a similar thing using Waze – most of the drivers I see online are men” ● “The missus won’t drive it, don’t really know why, probably too responsive and fast”

Men are more interested in cars in general

“Just my hunch. Men take more interest in cars…..though admittedly that tends to translate into being “petrol heads”. Perhaps women are a little less adventurous when it comes to cars. However they are probably slightly more “green” AND they will probably come to like the fact that electric cars are so simple!”  ● “EV’s still take more care and attention than ICE cars which will always favour males”

… but women are more interested in cars if it’s an EV

“People of any pronoun vary and generalisations could be bruising, but I do sense that women show more interest in electric cars than they normally show for petrol cars. Just look at the gender balance of strong advocates for EVs in our Facebook pages and compare that with other auto forums”

The reasons for switching may differ, even if the likelihood of switching is the same

“It’s possible that they will switch for different reasons, but that may not affect overall switch rate” ● “Men are maybe a bit more tech driven and women a bit more sustainability driven, but I’d be reluctant to ascribe any particular action (or inaction) to gender” ● “Women like the greener option. Men appreciate the technology advancements”

Education: the need to reach women and men

“In my discussions with members of the public who approach me while at fast chargers etc there appears to be a distinct pattern of perceptions about EVs.  It appears that women are generally less interested in the details. To them, it is ‘just a car’, which is fine… But: The female EV owners I have assisted at public chargers knew surprisingly little about the EV they had purchased, which puts them in danger of either being sold a dud and/or unknowingly operating their EV in a manner that would harm the battery and eventually the reputation of EVs when their ownership experience turns negative as a result and they begin to tell their non-EV friends etc.” ● “There is enough information out there, it just needs to get to the public and to potential EV buyers – but as the saying goes, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink!”

Learning the new: a diminishing challenge

“I am male, and have enjoyed the process of learning how to deal with the changes from maintaining an ICE vehicle to an EV, in particular “range anxiety” and best practice with respect to charging/maintaining the battery.  My wife has not really adapted to these issues and is not 100% comfortable with the change.  As this is a “trial of one” I cannot accurately deduce whether this is a male vs female issue. However, my intuition is that overall women will struggle more than men with the technical changes. I also foresee that these issues will rapidly diminish as battery capacity and life (total charging cycles) increases (Moore’s law with respect to batteries)”

Marketing needs to appeal to everyone

“One thing is for sure – the messages need to be diverse and inclusive so they reach old and young, the well healed and those that are financially stressed, different cultures, and of course, both men and women. The old models of thinking cars are just men’s business just don’t apply”

Lots of uncertainty

“I don’t know, but I’m not aware of anything that would make men or women collectively have a different position on this matter” ● “I don’t know what I don’t know, and far be it for me to pretend that what I think on this matter is useful!” ● “No reason to assume otherwise” ● “I don’t know” ● “No clue about this really. Should that be an option too?”● “I have no data to assess the answer to this question” ●  “It’s a silly question because how would anyone really know without research? I imagine there are plenty of men and women interested in new technology and all the manifest implications of electric vehicles. Apart from the knowledge that my wife is very pleased with our EV, I have no factual basis on which to answer a question like this” ● “I can’t speak for others”

More research would help marketing of EVs

“We would need some carefully controlled social research to check whether women are actually more likely to switch on average – a lot depends on who makes those decisions in the family, and who can afford them – but I think it’s likely that women are more likely to switch. It would be helpful to do more research about this because it can help design communication strategies to reach out to buyers” ● “I have no basis for thinking either way”

Subsidies could overcome reticence

“I guess my answer came from my own experience. I made the argument and did the research before buying an EV and my wife was more reticent because we don’t have much disposable income and it seemed a risk to step into the unknown. However I know situations where women in a couple have taken the lead. As EVs become more normal I would imagine it will be easier for both but particularly women to go EV. Subsidisation of EVs would certainly help overcome any reticence”

Just give the man or the woman a test drive!

“It just takes one drive to convince people :-)” ● “I often let people drive my E.V at least one person has since bought one” ● “I have no idea if there is gender bias. When either sex drives an EV first time they are equally thrilled” ● “I have found that the year I have had my Leaf, my partner uses the EV as often as her ICE and wants her next car to be an EV but with the range of her car”

What a silly question you asked!

“I think the question is sexist in that it plays into existing stereotypes about men being more into cars than women. I don’t think you should be reinforcing these stereotypes with these types of question” ● “That would have to be the most pointless question ever on Flip the Fleet. I can’t for the life of me figure out why you asked it?” ● “The question seems somehow confusing. If we don’t know, what should we say? We have a small acquaintance on which to base our opinion. All are couples, all in their 60s, some seem to be led by the female and some by the male, some the technology management is in the male hands; some, the emotional driver is the woman. But none of this tells me that we strongly agree with the proposition put in the survey question. Yet probably it should. Maybe you would have gotten a clearer response if the question was “that the male (or female) partner is the driving force for EV purchase”

Thanks!

Your comments are gems.  Keep them coming.

This survey was  partly funded by the Government’s Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund, administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

What should we ask the members next?

Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Rebecca Hayter, Henrik Moller, and Dima Ivanov

25 March 2018

Your take-home messages:

Owning an electric car was a last big step in a sustainability journey that was already underway for many families and businesses.  However, EV ownership also reinforced sustainability awareness and values, and spurred additional green investments like installing solar panels, and choices like reducing air travel.

This month’s poll:

Our sixteenth 1-click survey proposed that “Owning and electric vehicle has spurred me to take other steps toward a more sustainable life (e.g. reducing waste, installing solar panels, planting trees, reducing air travel …)”.

Participants could choose between the following six options:

(1) Strongly agree

(2) Agree

(3) Neither agree or disagree

(4) Disagree

(5) Strongly disagree

The poll was sent on 11 February 2018 to 512 electric Vehicle (EV) owners and 44 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV, including Range Extenders) owners who have enrolled in the Flip the Fleet project • 289 EV and 23 PHEV owners responded by 18 February 2018 • 137 respondents provided comments for their choice.   

Your scores

Over half (59%) of owners “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that owning an electric vehicle (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has spurred them to do more than they already were for sustainable living (Fig. 1). Nearly a third (32%) “neither agreed nor disagreed”.  Of the remainder, 9% “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” with the proposition.

What makes you Click?

Environmental consideration is obviously a strong factor in New Zealanders’ decision to buy an EV or PHEV. A majority of the comments referred to environmental benefits as their main motivation to have bought their car – only a few singled out cost savings, excellent performance and practicality as their motivation to buy electric.

Many respondents commented that purchasing their EV has been the last piece of the sustainability puzzle for them. Having already reduced their waste, commenced recycling, or installed solar PV, buying their EV or PHEV was the next, biggest and most expensive step in reducing their impact on the planet.  One comment sums up these common themes amongst the responses: ‘Buying an EV was part of an increasing journey to greater sustainability, but it didn’t in itself trigger more of it – I was already underway with this.  The EV is by far the biggest step we’ve done as a household, however.  Bamboo toothbrushes, increased recycling, giving away unused items, etc are all great – but I think the EV probably makes the biggest impact so far.’  Most of the comments received from owners who disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposition report that buying the existing sustainability awareness caused them to buy, not that having the car further accelerated their sustainability orientation e.g.  “It was the other way around. Becoming less wasteful, then installing solar, spurred me towards getting an electric car.

Other respondents described buying an EV as natural next step of a much longer and integrated journey: “Owning an electric vehicle was one of the last items in a list of ecological actions we have undertaken. with the list being roughly the following:- House insulation => Compact Fluoro lights (and now LEDs) => double glazing => Solar Panels + and finally an EV. This was not so much a matter of priorities based on desire as priorities based on the progress each of the technologies has made”.

Even though most EV purchasers are very environmentally conscious already, we hope that the respondent who said the following is right: “I think the EV purchase is going to be a last step in lots already taken for many sustainably aware people simply because a newish car is so expensive (after a house, the cars are the next biggie decision).  I expect this to change as the initial capital cost of EVs drops i.e.  soon EVs will be more of an entry pathway for family low carbon energy transitions, but in the meantime that the green values and less expensive investments and lifestyle adjustments will occur before buying an EV.

Around half of the respondents agreed with the idea that owning an EV or PHEV keeps them on their journey, makes them go further or faster, and made them see new things they could do for the planet in their daily lives.  The most common follow-up action is to investigate or install photovoltaic patterns to help charge their car e.g. “Since getting our EV, we have been considering solar panels, as we want to be using only the cleanest energy. We basically want to be “Walking on Sunshine” if at all possible”. The two technologies, solar PV and EVs are naturally ‘paired’ and will rise to dominate the market place into the future. Another said: “getting our EV has triggered reading, planning and costing of the options, and considerable debate in our household about the aesthetic impacts of the PV panels.  We wouldn’t be doing this research and having debate without having an EV and the way it bought energy conservation to front of mind, and I think it makes it much more likely that we will buy the panels in the next 6 months rather than waiting for a few more years”.

Electric vehicle ownership was part of a wider quest for sustainable transport for many respondents. The most intractable and important change for some owners is to reduce air travel e.g. Any contribution of EV and PHEV ownership to raise this awareness of this challenge is important because cheap air travel has become such a big part of our international business and playground.  It also underpins the very important tourism industry that is New Zealand’s main income earner. Others are driving less, using public transport or getting on their bikes. Those that retain a conventional (internal combustion) vehicle as part of their family fleet drive it more economically and want to lend it to others.

Clearly, owning an EV is just one of many strategies families take for more sustainable lives: e.g. “We have been planting trees, composting, vegie gardening, using rain water for watering plants, flushing toilet, using the washing machine, etc. So solar is our next little step to help heal the planet 🙂”.

The impacts of owning an electric vehicle can also be social. For example, one respondent said: “The passion and knowledge of other EV owners rubs off on us all too.  Early adopters are an amazing group of sensible, knowledgeable and courageous people.  So we are now interacting with a whole lot of new and inspiring people, reading different stuff and thinking about what is important in life, and what makes people change or not.  There is no doubt that our lives are richer for having bought an EV in very social and community oriented ways … and here’s the thing  … in ways that bind us more together to work for a common, better and more sustainable future.”

Discussion and conclusions:

This survey clearly indicates that many EV and PHEV owners are proud of their contribution to environmental sustainability.  Most are acutely aware of their effect on the environment, the impacts of climate change and that they have a responsibility to take action to minimise their footprint on the planet.  Nevertheless, the respondents were roughly split in half between those that saw buying an EV or PHEV as the end of a sustainability awakening, and the others who noticed that EV and PHEVs was part of a more subtle, “virtuous cycle” of accelerating environmental care. Obviously, people come to own an EV or PHEV in different stages of their value transition and action for the environment.  To quote an old bumper sticker, “everything is connected”.  No one step is sufficient by itself, even though owning an EV or PHEV is a biggie!

With the uptake of EVs in New Zealand now more than doubling every 12 months, and considering the overwhelming sustainability values of the respondents in this survey, it leaves us wondering how far the EV revolution can go if it rests entirely on environmental concerns.  The survey strongly underscores that the majority of “early adopters” are already environmentally aware and their purchase decision reflects deep existing values. Values take a long time to change, so if we are only going to have existing “greenies” buy EVs and PHEVs, sooner or later this wave of uptake is going to slow.  It might even stall. The key to enticing what Everitt Rogers called the “early majority” to buy electric vehicles (the next wave of buyers who might not be so strongly oriented to sustainability) swings on making the vehicles appealing for other reasons than their environmental benefits.  Several participants have written to us expressing their frustration that Flip the Fleet, and our 1-click surveys in particular, appear besotted with practical constraints and financial benefits of EVs and PHEVs. For these complainants, it’s the environmental contributions that are way more important and soulful.  We share this belief, but it’s not us existing owners that matter most!  It’s the ones that haven’t yet bought an EV or PHEV that we have to convince, and that conversation is, in our view, going to be more successful if it does not confront or challenge the comparative lack of green values or awareness of those that drive ICVs and fly a lot more than they need to.  We think it’s better to show scientific evidence and have a discussion that tears down the myths about electric vehicles being impractical and super expensive. Yes, EVs and PHEVs still have a way to go, but costs are falling and range is increasing steadily.  They are already way good enough for most of us to substitute for 95% of our uses and save us money.  So, you early adopters have a huge role to play by showing the doubters how good they are for you, as well as the planet.

The most encouraging thing about the results of this survey is the way having the EV or PHEV pushed some already sustainability-oriented purchasers to be even more green in their lives!  If we can only get the less sustainability-oriented people to buy an EV or PHEV, it seems likely that we will grow their sustainability and environmental ethic and actions.  Persuading people to buy an expensive thing like a relatively new car is a big step, but it is also a huge opportunity for starting new recruits for a longer and more varied sustainability journey.  Kick-starting the EV journey is the tough and slow bit – after that we can expect a green snowballing effect to embed the values and awareness needed to tackle the other big planetary and community threats.

Your comments in detail:

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged record of many of the comments received.  They are reproduced below in a rough sequence from those who agreed with the proposition to those who disagreed.

Realising I can make a difference:

“EV ownership seems to start the realisation process – I can make a difference” ● “We realized we could make a difference ourselves”

To the action stations:

“Kia kaha” ● “made me shift from just reading about climate change to actually doing something about it… it was so easy!” ● “there is no doubt that the purchase of an EV has deepened and hastened our transitions to more sustainable life in many and subtle ways. We now want solar electricity more than ever, and not just to save money by powering an EV – the EV has triggered reading, planning and costing of the options, and considerable debate in our household about the aesthetic impacts of the PV panels.  We wouldn’t be doing this research and having debate without having an EV and the way it bought energy conservation to front of mind, and I think it makes it much more likely that we will buy the panels in the next 6 months rather than waiting for a few more years” ● “It’s time we got serious about moving to a zero-emissions economy instead of just talking about it!!!!”

Environmental awakenings:

“Yes, [my EV] has really made me think about climate change actions” ● ” I am now a lot more aware of recycling and alternative energy” ● “Since buying an EV I have also got 2 Ebikes .  Plus, I have become a pollution reduction campaigner, a plastic water bottle and plastic bag hater and have almost become a total whole foods plant based vegan.  I have stuck a few solar panels on my roof along with a donated battery and use it to charge my Ebikes, Cell phones, and run my entire Ham Radio Station.   All off Grid.   Not bad for an ACT party candidate from the 2005 election is it?..  🙂   I have certainly changed my view on a great many things since buying an EV” ● “Once you’ve done something substantial for the planet, like spent your hard-earned cash on an EV, it’s made me much more aware of how I’m impacting the planet with everything else that I’m doing. I’ve pretty much gone vegetarian, and looking towards the next step … veganism. Then there’s the: need new clothes pegs? Well let’s get wooden ones. Pet dog? No way, maybe a cat instead. In fact, if I had bought my EV 20 years ago and started thinking about things the way I am now, I might not have had more than the average number of children…” ● “Discovering how much CO2 we are not pumping into the atmosphere any more has made me more aware of the other ways we impact the environment”

Seeing a bigger picture:

“Owning and driving an EV is but part of seeing a bigger picture of more sustainable living with less impact on the environment. NZ is uniquely placed to take advantage of our clean green energy and limiting pollution”

Deepening commitment and learning:

“I was on a quest to be more sustainable prior to getting my EV but I feel like I am more committed to it now” ● “We have always lived sustainably, have been off the grid for 23 years but having the car has encouraged us to look at other ways we can live more simply” ● “I bought an off-grid property and have done some serious deep-end learning”

Thinking about where the world is heading:

“Why did I hit “agree”? I think I have always been on the green side, not politically, I like things nature, but I also like technology, so there is a battle going on.  We have to make things easy in our society today or it won’t happen.  Seeing Africans struggling to live was an eye opener. Also the joy of our “camp boy” getting paid – he was going to buy a gas bottle and cooking ring with his earnings.  Having the EV is easy, yes there are issues with range that get me, but I was in the era of single car families and car-less days.  Also, I was from a small rural community that is no longer a nice town due to the fact people can go further to shop.  There was a better sense of belonging then. Does my EV ownership help? It makes me feel good, and does start others questioning where the world is heading”

Doing more with less gives meaning to life:

“Doing more with less is a philosophy that has a strong attraction for me” ● “Doing more with less creates wealth which is the superglue for a strong resilient civilization. Participation in wealth creation is an aspect of behaviour that gives meaning to my life…”

It’s about morals, values, habits and mindsets:

“One single choice in isolation won’t make enough of a difference. Buying an EV is linked strongly to many other moral practices that can’t be ignored and it all adds up to many opportunities to behave sustainably. Eg Soft Plastics recycling, composting, using less chemicals and reliance on bad materials” ● “It is very hard to change our habits. Change one thing and form new habits before taking on the next challenge” ● “Already doing a lot of those things. Buying an EV is all part of the same mindset” ● “Not happy with this answer because for me it’s the other way around. I was already leading a very conscious and sustainable lifestyle and driving an EV fits well with what I was doing. It surprises me how many EV drivers have no, or little, environmental motivation”

The knock-on effect – deepening and diversifying environmental choices:

“It just gets you thinking, what else could I be doing better to reduce my footprint?  We decided against a second car, and if I need to get around now I use primarily public transport or e-bike” ● “We actually installed solar panels and sized the system to be able to support an EV half a year before we got our EV, so for us it was the other way round. However, now that we’re driving an EV it certainly prompts us to rethink other areas of our life as well and look even more at eco-friendly and sustainable products and services” ● “We had already been doing most of the other things listed and the purchase of the EV was one of the last major steps. The EV purchase, however, did provide some rejuvenated enthusiasm for doing our part” ● “I think it has encouraged me to make more effort in other areas, e.g. plastic, growing trees for native nursery etc.”

Keeping us grounded:

“I think EV ownership cuts much deeper than making us smug (in the way some cynics portray us as a group) – it brings humility too when you realise that even a comparatively big step like buying an expensive car is still a small step in the bigger challenge”

The EV Club – it’s good to get to know you:

“The passion and knowledge of other EV owners rubs off on us all too.  Early adopters are an amazing group of sensible, knowledgeable and courageous people that have adopted EVs.  So we are now interacting with a whole lot of new and inspiring people, reading different stuff and thinking about what is important in life, and what makes people change or not.  There is no doubt that our lives are richer for having bought an EV is very social and community oriented ways … and here’s the thing … in ways that bind us more together to work for a common, better and more sustainable future”

Going easy on the planet:

“My primary reason for moving to an ev was for eco reasons” ● “We do need to take care of our environment. We are caretakers of our world, whether we have climate change or not” ● “Owning an electric vehicle is just one of the steps I’ve taken to be kinder to the planet. I already did and do other things – plenty more I can do and I’ll keep at it!” ● “We were already trying to achieve a more sustainable life, so owning an EV was just a natural progression” ● “I’ve been passionate about leaving the planet better than I found it, all my life. Electric cars are just more icing on the cake… Peter, 79 years young..”

Steps in a well advanced longer journey:

[Most of the ones commenting in this heading chose ‘3’ = neither agree nor disagree’] “Our sustainability values inspired us to buy an EV rather than the other way around” ● “When I bought my electric vehicle I was already committed to moving steadily towards a sustainable future. Owning the EV was just one step further on the road” ● “Buying an EV was part of an increasing journey to greater sustainability, but it didn’t in itself trigger more of it – I was already underway with this.  The EV is by far the biggest step we’ve done as a household, however.  Bamboo toothbrushes, increased recycling, giving away unused items,etc etc are all great – but I think the EV probably makes the biggest impact so far” ● “We were already living a sustainable life (but could always be better)” ● “I put ‘agree’ as I had already taken steps to live a more sustainable life style. EV was just another step in that direction” ● “Buying an EV was one link in the chain….. we had already made some of the other steps mentioned in the questionaire …. Building well insulated house…. PV systems…. Solarbox hotwater… composting …. gathering rain water …etc… the EV was an expensive purchase that came later…. But buying 1 EV sure made it easy.  It will b e an easy decision to buy an additional one when funds permitted… :)” ● “we had a Toyota Prius before we went fully electric” ● “Reducing waste etc was already in place and EV was added to the list” ● “I already have a small carbon footprint and can’t think how to reduce it further.  I have solar panels, I compost, recycle, don’t use plastics much” ● “Only partially true really [this respondent chose ‘2 = Agree], because I have to be “green” for a long time, and owning an E/V is just a continuum” ● “The electric car is one component of a lifestyle, and for us this choice has no direct effect on others” ● “We are quite “green” and sustainable in our lifestyle anyway and buying an EV was just another obvious step to take” ● “I already am as sustainable as possible. Getting the EV is one part of that rather than something which spurred me on more” ● “I was already taking steps to a more sustainable life before I bought an Electric car, this is just another step in the process, Solar panels next!” ● “We were already into it before we had a Nissan Leaf.  We have solar panels and were very conscious of recycling, single-use plastic bags, fossil fuels, global climate change.  To use modern parlance, EVs are a no-brainer” ● “I had solar panels before I got my car, and only fly once every 3 – 4 years” ● “We already reduce our plastic use and have planned to get a solar system. We are conscious of our impact on the environment and aimed to reduce that impact prior to owning out EV. EV’s are another sensible step in the right direction” ● “Just another step on the road” ● “I have already taken such steps – owning an electric vehicle was another step towards sustainability without compromising the planet” ● “Already looking after my footprint best I can” ● “While I agree with the merits of aiming for a more sustainable lifestyle, I don’t think the ownership of an electric vehicle has increased my resolve to aim for this. It is merely just one step along the way” ● “Already trying to be sustainable in other ways” ● “When I bought my electric vehicle I was already committed to moving steadily towards a sustainable future. Owning the ev was just one step further on the road” ● “Already do the solar panels and battery bit; the EV was the next step” ● “Already part of my way of life” ● “I was already aware of the crises facing our planet and have for years done what I can to act responsibly. When the time came to upgrade from my still immaculate 1999 Nissan Pulsar, choosing an EV was a natural decision. I just hope the car gives me long and reliable service” ● “We were pretty ‘environmental’ beforehand” ● “I don’t think getting the electric car has encouraged us to do more. It’s just part of what thoughts already existed” ● “I think a truer statement would be that the effects of climate change have spurred us to do more, including buying an electric car” ● “It was the other way around. Becoming less wasteful, then installing solar, spurred me towards getting an electric car”

Last steps in that journey:

“Because I have already done most of those things long before I got the Leaf, which was my last major aspect of decarbonisation” ● “I changed my life to be more sustainable BEFORE I bought my EV. It was part of the whole early retirement strategy. I mainly ride a bike, I plant trees for the Kāpiti biodiversity project, I grow over 50% of my own food and minimise my waste to landfill. In my experience, people who buy EVs understand the huge problems we face from climate change and have been changing their lifestyle where they could for a while” ● “My EV was the last piece of the puzzle. However, still battling with plastic reduction, single use glass and cheese” ● “because I already had a net-zero energy house, etc., etc., and the BEV was the main outstanding thing”

Expense is what makes the EV a late step in the sustainability journey:

“Buying the EV was the last and most expensive step of a 10 year program of reducing waste, LED lighting, front load washing machine and other energy efficient appliances, solar panels, water storage, worm bin, compost and overall energy reduction” ● “Was already doing all I could. Have solar etc. Due to cost and the fact I already had a perfectly good hybrid it was one of the last big steps I could reasonably take” ● “Owning an electric vehicle was one of the last items in a list of ecological actions we have undertaken. with the list being roughly the following:-   House insulation => Compact Fluoro lights (and now LEDs) => double glazing => Solar Panels + and finally an EV. This was not so much a matter of priorities based on desire as priorities based on the progress each of the technologies has made. EVs have been developing several years behind the other items that we have chosen. In addition, some of the other technologies have been easier and less expensive. For example, changing an incandescent light bulb to a CFL and then an LED is simple and can be done one or two at at time so that the cost is barely noticeable, whereas finding the extra cost for an EV requires saving or borrowing a significant lump sum” ● “Sequence of events.   Owning an EV is part of a package of trying to reduce my climate change/sustainability profile.  But I bought an EV AFTER I had done some cheaper options = PV, solar hot water, house insulation…” ● “We have been working on incorporating sustainable lifestyle practices for over 20 years already (as you listed). An EV has been on our to do list for a long time but we have only now got the finances to get one”

After buying an electric car, the rest seems easy:

“”If I can drive an electric car i can keep reusable shopping bags in the boot. It’s not hard”

EVs are recent, sustainable journeys have been underway much earlier:

“I am already recycling to a high degree. The arrival of the eNV200 in NZ at a reasonable cost, allowed me to take the extra step to reduce my impact on the planet” ● “I would have bought an EV earlier in my environmental transitions if they had been available back then”

Soon EVs will become more of the beginning rather than end of the sustainability journey:

“I think the EV purchase is going to be a last step in lots already taken for many sustainably aware people simply because a newish car is so expensive (after a house, the cars are the next biggie decision).  I expect this to change as the initial capital cost of EVs drops i.e.  soon EVs will be more of an entry pathway for family low carbon energy transitions, but in the meantime that the green values and less expensive investments and lifestyle adjustments will occur before buying an EV”

Planting trees:

“We are deeply concerned with the climate changes occurring and think that driving an EV is a productive step in that direction alongside all the other things we do such as planting trees”

Sedated driving of the ICE wagon:

“The way we use and drive our remaining Internal Combustion Vehicle is a direct consequence of having an EV.  We keep an oldish Subaru for towing plants to our forest restoration site and occasional long trips.  We now drive it real slow and steady, and don’t charge up hills!  When some petrol head barrels past us up the hills out of Dunedin, we snigger.  If they only knew how much they added to their fuel bill by driving like teenagers they would slow down” ● “One of the good things about EVs and the limited range issue is that it teaches you to keep watch and minimise energy use while driving – it’s an issue for the others but 99% of them don’t monitor or care.

Reducing use of the ICE wagon:

“We work in every way possible to transfer as much of our driving as practicable to our EV (probably the use of the Subaru has dropped by 85%)” ● “We try not to use our ICE car unless essential. The BEV is first port of call always”

Sharing to get the last drop out of a dying technology:

“We are much more willing to lend our Subaru and trailer to others, especially families with just an EV.  We want to get the most out of our last ICV for everyone that has a specialist need for one until NZ has the infrastructure and the car manufacturers have better EVs.

Green parenting:

“We will try to help one of our sons buy an EV rather than a crappy ICV once he has a job location sorted”

Whare mahana – warming the house:

“Since getting the EV I have installed 10 solar panels and re-insulated the house ceilings” ●

Home electricity generation and storage:

“OK, since you asked, having an EV has spurred me to investigate adding solar PV (we already have solar hot water) to our roof. Haven’t got there yet but looking at it” ● “We bought a second EV then upgraded our PV system to 6 kW plus a battery” ● “I am investigating the costs and benefits of installing solar panels to help reduce our electricity costs” ● “We have done significant research into solar panels, actively learnt more about sustainable electricity generation and consciously consider plastics use, as our purchase also coincided with supermarket plans re phasing out plastic bag use” ● “When you live in Sunny Nelson with the great number of sunshine hours, charging with solar is a no brainer” ●  “Installed solar panels” ● “Installed solar panels” ● “I have already had solar panels on our roof for the last couple of years and because we have been exporting power I have been trying to put this power straight into our electric car” ● “Looking to install solar panels at the moment” ● “We already got sun panels and a 7 kwh battery so we ARE committed” ● “I tried to convince dad to put solar panels in to combat the increase in the power bills since I got the Leaf” ● “We are starting to investigate Solar having had pricing from several years ago and know this needs revisiting”

EVs and solar are joined at the hip:

“I bought the EV as a result of going solar to make better utilisation of generation” ● “I already have solar panels for power on my roof which allows me to charge my car for FREE during daylight hours in times good bright sunshine. Less so of course during winter” ● “Since getting our EV, we have been considering solar panels, as we want to be using only the cleanest energy. We basically want to be “Walking on Sunshine” if at all possible” ● ● “We are looking at solar panels as it would be very neat to power the car by the sun!” ● “We installed photovoltaic panels on the house after we purchased the Leaf. We already had a hot water solar panel system, but in hindsight that was a mistake as it would have been better to initially invest in a photovoltaic system because that would provide hot water AND whatever other energy needs for the house” ● “having 2 EVs in the household and seeing the comparatively huge impact they make on electricity usage (compared to the house itself), and knowing the CO2 emissions of the grid is still high at 33%, is spurring me on to review our solar situation with a view to installing more, in combination with battery” ● “I would like to go solar when it is more affordable” ● “not much money left after expensive EV to get solar”

Home electricity storage makes it even better:

“Next is a Tesla type battery for the house (and a Tesla if we win Lotto)”

Getting even more solar and electricity storage:

“Actually we got some PV PANELS FIRST, THEN THE EV CARS. But we then added more PV panels so we could charge our cars from our own electricity plus we put in an LG battery to ensure we had enough or almost enough electricity so we don’t have to use much from the grid. Since then we are also trying to cut as much plastic out of our lives as we can.

Hastening steps towards zero waste:

“We are now more conscious of creating Zero waste which may be a coincidence” ● “what’s the use of having an EV that has a light touch on the planet and saves money to then be generating loads of rubbish by not recycling and wasting money in other areas” ● “We’re definitely now more conscious on reducing non-recycling refuse” ● “Driving an electric vehicle and knowing it isn’t polluting the atmosphere has made me more cautious about how I dispose of my everyday rubbish. I am keen to see a scenario where at least 90% of our waste, preferably 100%, is either reused, recycled, up-cycled, or disposed of so it doesn’t pollute our planet. In my work as an IT technician, I always recycle computers if it is possible, so they are used effectively and efficiently

Reducing home electricity demand:

“More aware of electricity use around the home, e.g. turning off unnecessary switches”

Heating water:

“Replaced central heating boiler with two air to water heat pumps”

Reducing water use:

“I’ve always recycled, anything that can be recycled will be and I re use the old water from my fish tanks by using it to water the garden, plants love it!”

Home water capture and waste system:

“We have solar with a battery, own water and sewage system”

Home food production:

“We are well on our way to producing a large portion of our food” ● “We have started mulching our green waste”

Reducing use of plastics:

“I already have a small carbon footprint and can’t think how to reduce it further.  I have solar panels, I compost, recycle, don’t use plastics much”

Reducing impact on the grid:

“Examining other ways to reduce use of grid power”

Sustainable lawn mowing:

“When our ICE lawnmower died we bought a battery powered mower to replace it” ● “Since getting an EV I’ve now sold our petroleum lawn mower and replaced it with an EGO battery mower. We are considering solar too!”

All part of an integrated home package:

“Actually, it’s almost the reverse of your question, but same outcome. We joined the EV (Extra-Virgin?) ranks as an integral part of adopting a sustainable energy lifestyle, including conservation (eg lo-watt bulbs, timers etc), insulation, solar thermal passive heating + water, domestic solar + battery, & so to EV….  Soon to be a virtuous circle?” ● “Also, have been updating appliances and whiteware and looking more closely at energy ratings and how many kWh they use rather than the star rating as it can vary a great deal. KWh rating gives a better indication of energy use plus the amount of water used for washing machines and dishwashers. Would love an electric lawn mower but as we have a very small lawn, it will have to wait. Also of concern is the plastic bags in use.  Time we all stopped buying them for our groceries. Too much packaging in use in vegetable sections and in general grocery packaging’ ● “We actually installed solar panels before buying an EV, but since buying an EV have planted more trees on the property, have reduced dependence on single-use plastic by taking reusable bags to the supermarket and trying where possible to use a keep- cup for flat whites!” ● “We have been planting trees, composting, vegie gardening, using rain water for watering plants, flushing toilet, using the washing machine, etc. So solar is our next little step to help heal the planet :-)” ● “Have got quotes for solar panels and heat pump heating solutions. Have purchased electric bike. Now running dishwasher and washing machine at off-peak time” ● “Actually I had already started, with 10kW of solar on the roof, and a battery-operated lawnmower, hedge trimmer, etc.  Our rubbish bin is rarely put out as we recycle almost everything”

Bring on the electric camper vans!

“The EV was getting near the end of our list – already do so many other things.  Haven’t got solar panels on our house yet – maybe that’s the next step.  But we do on our campervan.  Just waiting for a fully electric campervan!!”

Shifted focus onto the other areas:

“Understanding that renewable transport has been largely solved allows me to focus on other environmental issues.   (i.e. if we can do it with cars on a small scale, we can convert buses, trucks, boats and even airplanes to renewable. In the short term airplanes are moving to bio fuels to make air travel more sustainable”

Upgrading the EV next:

“I am saving up for a 7 seater electric vehicle now”

Clipping our wings: the hard one!

“At the more extreme end I have given up my passport” ● “I can’t bring myself to travel to Europe because of the carbon emissions.  Europe is so photographed anyway it is easy to travel there vicariously” ● “We do still travel to Europe but feel better knowing that we have saved much CO2 by driving electric!” ● “The biggest other transition from having our Leaf is in minimising air travel.  We felt pretty proud about having an EV, but got a real shock when Flip the Fleet showed us that our trip to see a son in Europe blew four years of GHG savings from our EV.  That sure was a wake-up call!  So we now minimise air travel, even though it takes us a lot longer to go to and from Christchurch by EV for work or visiting friends.   It takes some adjustments and compromises, but brings other joys (time together in the car, discovery of new towns and localities along the highway while we wait to recharge)” ● “I can only “agree”, not “strongly agree”, because I haven’t been able to quit air travel yet. And many other things we were already doing to some extent, though hopefully we will do more” ● “We had a solar system first and the natural progression was an EV to take advantage of excess production. We have since owning the EV also reduced our rubbish etc and far more recycling. Unfortunately air travel is essential for my job but with the EV and solar combined our carbon footprint is reduced ( 11.38 tons for solar)” ● “It does make me question air travel, the Marsden Point pipeline incident certainly made me realise how much fuel goes into one jet, all burnt because we can”

Buying an EV is a biggie:

“My wife and I definitely bought a Leaf because we already had environmental sustainability in our values and planning.  We have never spent so much on a car before in our lives, but for the first time too we had the disposable income to do so (our kids are now independent).  So we have been replanting a native forest into pasture in a coastal property and an EV was the logical next step”

Going easy on the grid while saving money:

“It has made us look in detail at our electricity use and make adjustments to our lifestyle to shift usage into the lower cost night hours. We have reversed 70%day / 30% night to become 30%day / 70% night. This saves us money and helps even out loads on the electricity network. Win-Win.” ● “We don’t get cheaper power at night, but we put our Leaf on a night-time timer to reduce pressure on the grid”

Profitable way of being green:

“Solar panels, yes – driving a car charged on your generation is the ultimate. Also will reduce costs of electricity (totally ignoring capital costs). Will help offset road user charges when they come in and help keep EV’s the logical economic choice” ● “I drive an EV to save money, while this government is not charging RUC and power costs are less than the fluctuating oil prices including the over inflated government taxes on fuel…” ● “We wish to be at least carbon neutral and at the same time save money”

It was just good for my wallet:

“I went for an EV purely for the financial sense it made. Nothing else has changed [this respondent chose ‘5’ = ’strongly disagree’]

Putting environmental concerns out there to wider society:

“Buying an EV was part of a trend in our lives that’s been going on for a while, rather than a trigger for starting being environmentally conscious.. But a point to consider is that our purchase of an EV may have made our friends more thoughtful about the environment” ● “I am already committed to doing what I can to reduce household and community greenhouse gas emissions. Buying an EV was however a significant personal step forwards and a public statement that is more ‘out there’ than composting or putting solar panels on the roof (although we do compost and have solar panels already)” ● “I do like the fact that owning an E/V will hopefully have a knock-on effect on other people to both own an E/V and be more green in general”

Showing the kids:

“We are not ‘eco warriors’ but are very much aware of the impact we have on the planet, both individually and as a whole. We have 3 young children who, initially spurred on by our purchase of an EV, have become very much more aware of their energy consumption and wider footprint on the world around them. We now throw away just a small shopping bag sized bag of rubbish each week and recycle the rest (including soft plastics thanks to the New World initiative). More recently we installed a 10Kw solar system that has significantly reduced our power consumption drawn from the grid. We built a modern house that utilises geothermal energy and modern insulation techniques that efficiently keeps our house warm and dry throughout the winter. We feel we are making changes, mostly as a positive example to our family and friends, showing what you can do without that much of a compromise to your lifestyle. In the same way, EVs are starting to become more popular, more mainstream not just because of the ecological bonus, but because it’s a win/win, a ‘no brainer’ to have something that’s great to drive, costs less to keep and to run and is better for the wider world. Nuff said.

Personally stepping up because the government hasn’t:

“What I can’t understand however is why the previous government was so poorly informed and so unwilling to act to transform our land transport system to electric. As a country, we need a vision, targets and a plan to eliminate all fossil fuel transportation for personal use simply to keep the energy dollar local. This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to reduce NZ’s greenhouse gas emissions and will hasten the development of renewable generation in a country that is already known as the “Saudi Arabia of Wind”

Part of a bigger sustainable transport package:

“We need the Zero Carbon Act and we need a comprehensive plan and much more important incentives to transform our transport system. I don’t just mean EVs either. I mean dealing also with public transport, active transport, coastal shipping and even work on low emission air transport”

Rewired retirees!

“We are retired and travel less than before” ● “For me the buying the EV wasn’t the spur, it was part of my wider response to reducing my environmental pressure.. that included building a passive low energy house for retirement, sourcing carbon zero electricity, planting trees and engaging with local politicians just for example :)” ● “Buying an EV was part of reducing our costs in retirement” ● “I have been an enviromentalist for about 30 years, have had solar water heating installed when the house was built 2005. I installed 20 solar panels in 2014. The change to an EV was in Oct 2017 – the culmination of my journey. I am a biological regenerist gardener (organic plus). I would like to go off the grid but that may not happen as I am nearly 83”

Fascinating physics:

“We I’ve a quiet life anyway but are very interested in things like flow batteries for back up, thorium nuclear for low pollution energy, possibly sodium-metal or similar battery for replacement in our present Leaf but actually very keen on the 60kwh Leaf when Nissan NZ start to deliver” ● “Working in technology makes me a ready convert to EVs.  The lower running costs, the energy efficiency and the performance are the main advantages but the environmental benefits are a nice bonus too”

Good for the planet, cheap to run, practical, and a good ride

“Owning an EV did not spur me into thinking about sustainability.  I was already heading down this path and the EV purchase is part of the plan. Having said that sustainability is only part of the reason we purchased and EV. Our main reasons for the EV purchase was that most of the trips it does are less than 30km, minimal maintenance and…… It’s fun” ● “Sustainable living has always been relevant for us with recycling and minimising rubbish and use of solar power. The EV is as much chosen for sustainability as for comfort and driving qualities” ●

Letting your inner bogan out:

“My EV ownership is purely driven by the economics of it. The 70% reduction in my cost of commute was the number one driver. The joy gained from dragging boy racers off at the lights comes in second”

EVs are just a small step to what we must achieve:

“Vehicles only contribute about 11% and industry 17% pollution, whereas deforestation and animal’s (cattle, sheep, goats & poultry) about 60%….”

Caring comes first:

[These respondents chose ‘4’=‘disagree’ or ‘5’=“strongly disagree] ● “I care about my effect on the environment and driving electric is one way I put that into practice. That does not change the way I do things because the caring came first” ● “The cause and effect are the other way around.  The sustainability mindset led to EV ownership” ● “I have to disagree because it is the other way round for me: steps towards a more sustainable life has spurred owning an electric vehicle” ● “It was the other way around for me: buying an electric vehicle was a bigger step after reducing waste, flying etc.” ● “I already recycle and reduce plastic waste as much as possible” ● “The complete opposite actually – I have used a garden composter for more than 30 years. Prior to that, while growing up, everything biodegradable fed the vegetable garden. I was planting trees on Arbour Day 60 years ago. A legacy of being raised in a “waste not, want not” family results these days, in my only needing to put out the rubbish and recycling bins every couple of months. EV’s are late to the party…” ● “It was the other way around.  My interest in the environment, global warming etc. encouraged me to buy an electric car” ● “Leading a more sustainable life spurred me into getting an EV, not the other way round” ● “Already done plenty of planning, eg for Solar panels, but found them uneconomic on our small roof space.  Already planting as many trees as possible.  i.e buying the EV is part of the process not an instigator for us” ● “Was already motivated to live sustainably” ● “I’ve always had a sustainable life that’s why I bought an EV” ● “We were on to planting trees, looking to reduce our fossil fuel use AND we needed a new car too. So it wasn’t the car that did it to us, we are already thinking about reducing fossil fuel use a lot” ● “We have been actively reducing waste and working towards a low impact lifestyle.  The Electric vehicle is part of this plan” ● “Owning an EV has not really changed my behaviour elsewhere in my life. I’m already somewhat environmentally conscious, so owning an EV was an obvious move for me” ● “We already have solar panels and recycle materials where possible” ● “Because we have always lived a lifestyle where we minimise waste, grow our own food, make compost, installed solar panels, grown trees, lived simply. So for us it’s the other way around. Our choice of lifestyle led us to purchase an EV so we could further reduce our emissions” ● “We took these steps towards a more sustainable life before we bought an electric car. Buying the car was a natural extension of this” ● “In fact buying an EV was the next step I had wanted to take for some time, after previous  longstanding personal experience with an electric scooter, solar power and a wind generator” ● “Owning an electric vehicle has resulted in me planting less trees ;-)” ● “Nothing had changed in my life. Already recycle and solar does not make sense for me either now or before. However, a strong reason I brought the car was because of the reduced CO2 emissions” ● “I’ve always been considerate”

Thanks!

This survey was  partly funded by the Government’s Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund, administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

What should we ask the members next?

Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Henrik Moller, Morgan Knoesen and Dima Ivanov

24 February 2018

Your take-home messages:

Nearly all New Zealand’s current electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid owners are likely to consider buying another EV or PHEV – particularly when more models become available that can travel further, have better off-road capability and carry heavier loads. There is general optimism as the market continues to grow that prices will decrease, and technology will improve in the near future.

This month’s poll:

Our fifteenth 1-click survey proposed that “If I buy another car, it will be an electric (EV) or plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV)”.

Participants could choose between the following five options:

(1) Definitely Yes

(2) Probably Yes

(3) Unsure

(4) Probably No

(5) Definitely No

The poll was sent on 10 January 2018 to 473 Electric Vehicle (EV) owners and 41 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV, including Range Extenders) owners who have enrolled in the Flip the Fleet project • 254 EV and 22 PHEV owners responded by 19 December • A total of 138 respondents provided 196 reasons for their choice, with EV owners providing most of the comments (93%).

Fig.1 Responses of EV or PHEV/REX owners to the proposition that “If I buy another car, it will be an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle” (n=276 responses).

Your scores

Most (91%) current EV and PHEV owners (Fig. 1) would either definitely, or probably purchase another EV or PHEV if needed. Of the remainder 7% were unsure, and only a small minority (2%) were probably not going to purchase another EV or PHEV. Only 1 survey respondent (0.4% – note other numbers have been rounded) was definitely not likely to purchase an EV or PHEV as another vehicle.

What makes you Click?

Six broad themes were identified from 1-click Survey #15 responses. The category of “Other” has not been included in Table 1. It includes new owners who have not yet had an opportunity to fully assess their vehicle’s functionality and miscellaneous comments. Very lengthy comments were split into multiple themes.

Benefits to the environment and sustainability were identified by 15% of respondents as a reason for definitely, or probably purchasing an EV/PHEV as another vehicle. The benefits encompass caring for the planet for future generations along with improving human health and wellbeing. This group (15%) also identified a wide range of general benefits to EV/PHEV ownership, such as the greater enjoyment of driving when compared with driving petrol or diesel only cars.

Just over one-quarter of respondents (26%) specifically mentioned technology. Respondents satisfied with the current technology (9%) that make EV/PHEV ownership more attractive to new buyers highlighted the rapid development of the fast charger network and reduced maintenance requirements. Future technology needs (17%) included longer range, heavy haulage/special purpose (e.g., farm and off-road) and the ability to ‘re-battery’ (i.e. extend battery life).

Cost and affordability (26%) was also mentioned by just over one quarter of respondents. A specific benefit of EV/PHEV ownership was highlighted as their cost-effectiveness to run (14% of respondents). However, the higher up-front purchase price was a barrier for 12% of respondents and for 2% of respondents was a major deciding factor for not purchasing.

Some respondents (3%) emphasised the value of owning both EV/PHEV and ICE vehicles to complement each other. Some EV/PHEV owners (9%) expressed their general distaste for ICE vehicles, seeing them as backward, though were resigned to using them until better EV/PHEV alternatives are available.

Overall, respondents who would probably or definitely not purchase an EV/PHEV provided 7% of comments in these categories. Most focussed on technological barriers (e.g., shorter range and limited battery life) and/or affordability as deciding factors. Several respondents currently owning ICE vehicles opted to retain them until EV/PHEV options more suited to their needs were available (e.g., could tow heavy loads, travel long distances and off road). A few at this stage would replace their old ICE with a newer ICE.

Table 1.  Themes in comments by 128 EV and 10 PHEV owners in response to the proposition that “If I buy another car, it will be an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle”. The table excludes comments on miscellaneous themes.

Discussion, conclusions and recommendations:

Our question is a real test of the utility of EVs and the pleasure they give owners. The results show that EV and PHEVs are overwhelmingly happy with their choice of vehicle and the majority (91%) would choose an EV or PHEV again if they buy another car. Many existing EV/PHEV owners most likely to purchase another vehicle of this type, see themselves as having a moral duty both to safeguard the future of the planet through reducing emissions and for society: “We all need to do our bit to drastically reduce our reliance on oil and the grief & damage this causes”. Environmental and sustainability themes are strong among this group, with many enriching their comments by highlighting the benefits (e.g., technological, overall driver experience, running cost) to owning vehicles of this type. A typical example is: “We are more than happy with the performance, running costs and convenience – and frankly, sheer fun – of driving an electric vehicle. And the environmental imperative of drastically reducing fossil fuel emissions means that there is, to our knowledge, no acceptable alternative for a private vehicle.” For others, the shift to an EV (more so than a PHEV), is part of a larger change, both in lifestyle and mindset, for example, slowing down and deriving greater enjoyment from travel.

Constraints of EV ownership are reducing and opportunities increasing because of enhanced technology, better power supply, improved charging infrastructure that are being driven by increased consumer demand. The general tone of comments on this theme suggests confidence that these changes would occur rapidly – within 5 years, and that prices would drop accordingly. Existing technology was obviously attractive to EV/PHEV owners though potential buyers require further information on which base purchasing: “Very interested and just awaiting more options… need to know how well the different manufacturers have adopted and made their EV tech”.

For several respondents, a rapid drop in the resale value of existing EV/PHEVs vehicles raised some concern among early adopters, but pleasing others that want to see the initial capital outlay to reduce enough to get lots more New Zealanders buying EVs.

The reduced costs of run an EV/PHEV was frequently mentioned as was the cost of purchasing new vehicles when compared with purchasing a new/second-hand ICE vehicle. One respondent felt annoyed at the continued focus on purchase costs: “How many people are there out there driving big cars that cost the same as an EV? Anyway, it’s not about short-term cost, it’s about long-term cost”. For a few others, changes need to occur in the current market: “The only obstacle is the cost price, and as long as second-hand imports or subsidized vehicles are available, then it is an excellent choice”.

A shift in mindset between short-term and long-term outlay was highlighted with one respondent stating: “It’s even worth borrowing money to fund the difference in price between EV and non-EV, as the money saved on fuel will more than cover the interest on the loan”. For one respondent, costs savings were calculated in the following way: “the annual money saved on fossil fuel and other running costs will more than cover any requirement for flying and/or hiring a vehicle for the 1-2 times a year that we need to go on long distance road trips”.

Owners of both an EV/PHEV and an ICEs exploit their separate functionality: the EV or PHEV was generally used for shorter distance travel (e.g., for commuting to work and day-to-day driving), while the second (or third) ICE vehicle was used for longer distance travel, the capacity to tow trailers/ caravans and carry more people, or for specialised off-road use requiring 4WD capacity. To consider purchasing an EV or PHEV as a second (or third) vehicle, owners expressed a need for a vehicle with comparable functionality to their current ICE. At present, there are limited models available for these uses (e.g., electric utes), and if models are available, then the cost of purchasing is a major deciding factor – and consequent barrier.

EV owners provided most of the comments, with several respondents critiquing PHEVs, e.g., for being “…a compromise that achieves the worst of both worlds” as well as “…excessively complicated and not very efficient”. However, for one respondent, a PHEV would meet needs better than an EV: “My travel is about the journey and the destination, not about the car, which has to be a timely, reliable long-term, and cost-efficient tool for the job, available at a moment’s notice, doing its work entirely in the background. EVs don’t meet any of my criteria…” For a few others, purchasing a newer ICE vehicle still represented the best option for their lifestyle, current state of technology and power supply infrastructure: “We are moving to the country and the lack of range of an EV will become even more of a problem. It is likely that we would buy a small diesel car with good fuel economy and range instead”. As early adopters, some EV/PHEV owners were openly critical of ICE vehicles: “…create a lot of waste – exhaust, heat and noise for minimal gain. Its fuel is energy and pollution intensive and ultimately limited in availability” highlighting that newer technologies offer many more benefits both to society and the environment.

Recommendations from this survey are:

• make EVs/PHEVs more attractive by keeping the wider community up-to-date with improvements in technology (particularly range and power) as well as progress within the second-hand car markets and price changes as the market for new vehicles matures
• provide dollar cost calculations for loan and purchase scenarios that off-set longer-term EV/PHEV running costs
• highlight both the measurable practical as well as less measurable aspects of EV users: the enhanced driver experience or feel of driving an EV/PHEV when compared with a conventional ICE vehicle
• provide more emphasis on the environmental benefits of EVs and importance of these for owners to balance the emphasis on their cost effectiveness

Your comments in detail

Below is a lightly edited and re-arranged record of all the comments received.

Looking ahead to the Future:

“I believe our next car will be 100% electric. It is the best/only way to go in the future” ● “After experiencing an E-Car for over a year, I feel that it is so obviously the way forward” ● “Clearly, EVs are the way of the future” ● “1 month of EV ownership has already confirmed that this is the future of transportation” ● “Low emissions vehicles future. BEVs are currently the best technology off the shelf” ● “Having owned a Leaf for more than a year now I am convinced that EVs are here to stay” ● “Because EVs are the way of the future” ● “I’m sure EV is the way to go, I will upgrade to a better EV as soon as possible” ● “We should expect in the future to be constrained in our use of domestic vehicles, but the technology in the electric cars is so good we feel the constraint is easily manageable” ● “Company policy to increase the number of fleet EVs”

Technology will only get better:

“I confidently anticipate a rapid improvement of the technology, especially battery life & capacity, the only slight constraint at present” ● “My next EV will probably go 300km & tow a trailer!” ● “As battery life increases with technology and prices come down you would be silly not to” ● “Because our EV is the best car we’ve ever owned and I think they are only going to get better” ● “EV’s are just getting better and better (Range and Design)” ● “Very satisfied with my existing EV and the rapid development of the fast charger network. Things are only going to get better. More range, more choice of vehicle, better prices and more charger availability” ● “The gap between EVs and conventional cars is closing fast.  EVs outperform Petrol and Diesel cars in every way, except range.  Range is being addressed with fast charging and longer range EVs.  EVs are a much more simple machine, easier to build and maintain once manufacturing catches up I think the price of EVs will start to compete with conventional cars.   In 5 years range will not be an issue with EVs” ● “We will be watching with keen interest the developments in public transport initiatives, and the environmental implications and performance of lithium batteries, when considering means of transport in the future.” ● “Whilst the infrastructure for the EV era is being established, the cost of travel is very cheap, later on these vehicles will become the norm and will attract a cost relative to the political need, it’s at this point, the powers that be, can start reaping a profit. So, at this stage the true cost of running these vehicles will be made. Hopefully the price of the vehicles and their range will still make them a viable option” ● “If I have a second vehicle I would use it to travel further than my immediate locality. Recharging outside New Plymouth before reaching another centre is not easy at present. As the range of electric vehicles increases I would consider this” ● “The building infrastructure and new cars with improved ranges will soon make EVs practical and affordable for more families” ● “Very interested and just awaiting more options, which are greatly needed. Need to know how well the different manufacturers have adopted and made their EV tech”

It’s better for the planet:

“I care about the future of our planet. Anything which can help reduce carbon emissions should be a very high priority for government, business, and every citizen” ● “Reducing my family’s carbon footprint and striving for a sustainable NZ is important to me” ● “It’s the very least we can do to try and keep our planet liveable for future generations” ● “Having watched “Before the Flood”, doco film on youtube about climate change, I was prompted to make a change.  If we get 1000 times more energy from the sun that the world requires each day, it is the source that we should be tapping.  I don’t have any figures and only assuming that if we’d spent the money that is used for oil exploration on solar energy capture, the world might be a better off at this point in time. I think it’ll be near impossible to get right away from fossil fuel use on the highways, but if all the people moving fleet was electric it would be a good thing” ● “Mainly because EVs are better for the environment… We have also chosen to go vegan as that is the best thing we can do to help the environment and is also a much healthier way of eating” ● “Climate change, climate change, climate change. There are air pollution issues too, which can cause respiratory problems and is associated with low birthweight babies (no causal relationship proven for that yet, but strong suspicion). But actually in Auckland we don’t have much trouble with our air, it all blows across and out to sea pretty fast” ● “Looking after the planet for my kids, and for its own sake” ● “We must drastically lower emissions” ● “Because we aren’t upper middle class National-voting scum who put selfish personal gain ahead of keeping the planet liveable for future generations” ● “Love that my carbon footprint had been lowered” ● “the environmental imperative of drastically reducing fossil fuel emissions means that there is, to our knowledge, no acceptable alternative for a private vehicle” ● “Driving an EV is a pleasure. It also makes me happy to be contributing to reducing emissions and makes me happy to walk the talk and live my values”

Keeping up with the trend:

“We may not be “shock troops”, rather early adopters who like to be on the right side of history. Transport technology is moving to a rapid and disruptive rhythm – we aim to stay on the wave…” ● “We are concerned that ICE cars will soon drop in value due to the realisation that new cars will quickly move to electric, given our experience with our Ioniq” ● “Early adopters help speed the transition” ● “They are fun to drive.  They make me proud to be helping along a revolution and sticking a finger at the vested interests that have been so slow to encourage EV uptake and not been required to pick up the tab for polluting ICE vehicles”

Buying an EV/PHEV is my duty – we all need to do our bit:

“I believe that morally I am duty bound to buy an EV if I can afford it, whatever the cost” ● “I already own an EV which has been fantastic so far – and we all need to do our bit to drastically reduce our reliance on oil and the grief & damage this causes” ● “I like to do my bit as an individual” ● “It is the responsible thing to do” ● “It is the right thing to do to reduce usage of fossil fuels” ● “Climate change isn’t happening by itself, and it won’t fix itself while we’re still part of the problem. We need to start being part of the solution. It starts by each of us doing our little bit, and making the small sacrifices necessary” ● “As someone who can afford to be an early EV adopter, I feel it’s my obligation to do my bit to speed up the uptake of EV’s and renewable energy” ● “Love my EV, it’s great to drive and I like the environmentally responsible feeling it gives me” ● “Trying to do our little bit for the planet and our grandchildren” ● “We are committed to driving EVs. They’re quiet, comfortable, easy and cheap and makes every trip a ‘journey’” ● “I recognize that for most people an EV is totally impracticable. I do think however that EVERYONE should have at least a hybrid if they can POSSIBLY afford it”

ICE vehicles have had their day:

“As an Engineer, I hate energy inefficiency. As a machine the ICE car is incredibly inefficient at what it does. It creates a lot of waste – exhaust, heat and noise for minimal gain. Its fuel is energy and pollution intensive and ultimately limited in availability, which should be put to better use” ● “Once you own an EV, you realize what an inefficient and poor design the internal combustion engine car is, with its low efficiently, maintenance costs and poor delivery of motion, requiring gear boxes and clutches etc” ● “I am in Central Auckland. Previous owner has made it possible to have 3 pin plug at both my parking places at ground and mezz floors. the el. is measured on my meter at the 12th floor, so my situation is unique. There is fast charging in the next street. The shear ease of driving an el. car, why would you have anything else. We are old and do not require long distance driving, but with planning, it can be done” ● “We already have 2 electric cars, and now that we know how awesome they are, we’ll never go back to an Infernal Combustion Engine car!” ● “I can’t see myself ever going back to a pure ICE vehicle” ● “An ICE is noisy and polluting and costly to run!” ● “Wouldn’t go back. ICE vehicles on way out” ● “Will never buy an ICE car again because of smooth driving with no smell” ● “I feel guilty about what I am doing to the environment on the rare occasions when I have to drive an ICEV” ● “Driving an BEV is a wonderful experience, I wouldn’t even contemplate going backwards and driving an ICE vehicle again” ● “Now that I have made the change, going back to an ICE car, even to a hybrid) is not even an option for me. I wouldn’t even consider a PHEV. My thinking around travel has completely changed and I would rather not be able to go some places than drive an ICE. I don’t even like going places with friends and being a passenger in their ICE cars. I’m becoming an antisocial asshole! Not really!” ● “I begrudge the cost of maintaining the petrol/diesel engine” ● “I didn’t want to spend any more money on petrol or diesel” ● “Economically it is now growing risky to invest in ICEs, as resale values are already dropping it appears and I can’t see any future in ICEs for personal/household use. So from a purely utilitarian perspective, it makes no sense to contemplate investing at some point in the future in redundant technology”

Addicted to oil…but:

“I Love Oil. It’s got our society, our way of living and our technology where it is today. We wouldn’t have what we have now without it. Nearly everything we need and want has in some way been touched by it. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We don’t need to burn 25% of the oil we dig up, putting it into the atmosphere, polluting the air our families breathe where we cannot ever get it back. It should be used and recycled for the generations to come” ● “The technology is available now to kick the fossil fuel habit. I look forward to the day when I can drive everywhere with my windows down and air vents open, knowing I’m not exposing myself and my family to invisible, hazardous emissions. Emissions out of sight, does not mean emissions should be out of mind. Add a harmless visual dye to fossil fuels, and then see how fast people want change!”

Never turning back!

“I currently have a plug-in hybrid. I intend to get a smaller, fully EV car when my plug in is about 5-8 year’s old. Never turning back!” ● “To go back to a petrol only car would be inconceivable” ● “Why would we go backwards?” ● “Buying a new ICE car makes no sense whatsoever… No more fossil fuelled cars for me!” ● “We don’t have any requirements that aren’t yet covered by a current EV or PHEV make and model” ● “With solar power installed I would not consider anything but fully electric. less than 1 cent per Km!” ● “I have a 2015 Nissan Leaf and it’s fantastic. Great to drive, quiet. Would hate to go back to old cars!!!” ● “After buying one I would not go back to ICE vehicle due to lower running costs” ● “I so love my EV that I would not want to go back to an ICE car. The longer I use it, the more I love it” ● “I will never buy another ICV in my life and any new car will be an EV rather than a PHEV (the later just don’t deliver the costs or environmental benefits). For others it may need a while longer to make the EVs the only and far cheaper option” ● “I will never buy another internal combustion car again. EV all the way for me” ● “After owning a Nissan Leaf, I’d never go back to a petrol vehicle. The fuel is so cheap, and the maintenance costs are minimal” ● “I bought my last ICE car in 2007, a Prius…but it’s been converted to a plug-in hybrid and I still use it. I fully expect it will be the last ICE I’ll own”

EVs are just… no brainers!

“I just love electric cars!” ● “No-brainer. It’s the way the World is going!” ● “It’s a no brainer in NZ with over 80% of our electricity coming from renewable sources” ● “EV’s are a no brainer… they are much more efficient, and just make scientific, financial and ecological sense” “It is a no brainer for the planet” ● “Its a no brainer!” ● “Can’t wait to replace my diesel van with electric!” ● “Everything is good about electric vehicles, no reason to change my mind!”

Multiple benefits outweigh negatives:

“The savings in running costs are amazing, and an EV is just so good to drive!” ● “More enjoyable and easier to drive, quieter, cheaper to run, cheaper and easier to service” ● “There are so many reasons: 1.) I have noticed no significant increase in my electricity cost, effectively making me feel as though my car is now almost free to use. 2.) I love saving time by not having to buy petrol every week or so. 3.) We enjoy long trips even though we have a small leaf – it’s fun and it makes driving exciting again. 4.) That said, 99.9% of our trips are short round-town ones anyway and we experience no range anxiety; 5.) I get free parking in Auckland in a range of spots (thanks Vector!) – this is awesome! 6.) Lastly, it’s so nice knowing that you’re not throwing all these carbons and stinking chemicals into the air/other people’s faces!” ● “More environmentally friendly, cheaper in the long run, more reliable, more fun to drive, less noise, more 21st century” ● “An electric car will be more modern technology and will be better to drive than any petrol car. It will be cheaper to run and less polluting” ● “Cleaner, Cheaper to run, Fast” ● “The advantages of electric cars are so great, and the disadvantages so minuscule, that it makes no sense not to drive one if you possibly can” ● “Clean and hardly any noise, great to drive too” ● “Because a BEV is environmentally friendly and cheap to run” ● “Cost of running is low, driving pleasure is high, massive environmental benefits” ● ‘It’s great not having to visit gas stations. Its making me more aware of the journeys I make and questioning whether there is another means to get to my destination bus or bike” ● “We are more than happy with the performance, running costs and convenience – and frankly, sheer fun – of driving an electric vehicle” ● “The smooth, quiet ride of the EV, the power if I want it, the stability on the road, the cheap running costs and the environmental advantage of not using petrol or oil!” ● “This week’s Herald article (https://www.stuff.co.nz/motoring/news/99657465/the-highs-and-lows-of-living-with-an-electric-vehicle) said EV owners have rose tinted windscreens.  Maybe that’s true, but if EVs work for us, they will work for lots of others too” ● “Super to drive, quiet and no emissions, great for round town and can manage rural journeys between fast chargers”

EVs driver experience:

“EVs are just plain nicer to drive. Noise is also harmful to wellbeing and EVs are very quiet” ● “Buying an electric car is the best decision I have ever made. Cheap to run, quick, quiet and a pleasure to drive” ● “Fun to drive and I don’t need the range, household income $200k+/y, no mortgage” ● “It slows one down and makes one appreciate life” ● “The driving experience is so much nicer in an electric car” ● “To me owning an electric car is just a change in your mind set. I live in the country and have hills to climb to get back home so I need to be sure that I have enough power to do that. But to answer the question I would say that an electric car is so cost effective, you just need to remember to charge it; that is what I mean by a change in your mind set” ● “Driving an EV is a pleasure” ● “Taking life at a slower pace these days means I’m quite content to take longer to get to Christchurch from Dunedin in my EV. Actually, I’ve had a lot of pleasant surprises in the little towns and cities with chargers on those journeys, and I can catch up on email along the way”

Purchasing another PHEV…

“Definitely will be a plug-in hybrid, definitely won’t be an EV. My travel is about the journey and the destination, not about the car, which has to be a timely, reliable long-term, and cost efficient tool for the job, available at a moment’s notice, doing its work entirely in the background. EVs don’t meet any of my criteria…”

Not convinced/ right time yet…

“For the moment, we will make do with a petrol car for secondary and out of town transport.  In the not too distant future, I envisage that the petrol car will be replaced by another EV” ● “We still have an ICE.  We both dislike driving our 2yr old Golf and would prefer both cars were similar in response.  ● “We are moving to the country and the lack of range of an EV will become even more of a problem. It is likely that we would buy a small diesel car with good fuel economy and range instead” ● “Lack of range, 100km per charge just won’t cut it in the country…” ● “If it was to replace our LEAF, then definitely yes – because it is ideal, especially for local travel. If it is to replace our 12 year old Peugeot 407 diesel which is now used only once or twice a week (if the Leaf is not available) and for long trips, then I would probably replace it with a similar (second hand) vehicle because: 1.   it is probably needed for less than 4,000km per annum 2.   the extra capital cost of an EV would be hard to justify with such low annual km 3.   the convenience of not having to refuel for 900km” ● “Just need to wait for some larger, cheaper EV’s before I can ditch the ICE. Much nicer to drive and much cheaper to run” ● “Would definitely like electric but not many electric utes out there. Range is still an issue as well” ● “We will need a decent size vehicle capable of carrying/towing a moderately sized payload (people or trailers) over a 200km+ range. So it will depend on what is available that can do this and what price and range the electric vehicle has. Also, we don’t tend to buy new, as depreciation sucks value out of an asset very badly for the first few years of a new vehicle’s life, so will probably have to wait till used options of such a capable vehicle become available. But our need to replace existing vehicles soon will arise well before this happens, so we will almost certainly need to consider an ICE, or at least a hybrid, in the meantime. We would definitely go EV or PHEV if a vehicle with the right load/range capability was available at a price we could afford), but don’t think the right supply will be available for a few years yet” ● “It will all depend if we are able to get a six seater EV” ● “It depends what we want the car for.  The EV is for city use while our other car is for long distance use.  If we need to replace the Leaf in 10 years, then definitely another EV, but if we need to replace the Odyssey it will depend a new car’s capacity and range” ● “We love the EV, but have retained a second non-EV for longer trips. Once there is a reasonable priced EV that could do Dunedin – Christchurch with just one recharge we would be happy to be a completely EV family” ● “I would prefer to buy an electric vehicle, but practicality (range, vehicle type) also play a role in making this decision” ● “Love driving our existing EVs. Only thing preventing me purchasing another one now is lack of choice – really want an EV Ute, but currently none on the market” ● “Our second vehicle is a 4 wheel drive diesel ute. Once an EV (or PHEV if need be) alternative becomes viable for us cost-wise, we will be very keen. Hopefully that happens before we are forced to replace the ute! ” ● “Next car I buy might be a 6 seater for out of town trips. I don’t like the Outlander, so will be dependant on what is available in the market when I am ready to buy. I would prefer to buy a vehicle with the technology used in the Nissan Note e-power, but in a 6 seater. Alternately, will buy another Nissan Leaf or Nissan Note e-power for my teenage children to drive when they are ready!” ● “It would all depend on cost of car and hopefully getting a better range on it! ” ● “Our family currently has 2 cars – 1 EV and 1 petrol car. The ev is our recent purchase so it is our petrol car which will need to be replaced next.  I’d like to go fully electric with both cars, but charging the ev to date hasn’t been 100% reliable so I have some reservations” ● “Next purchase will be to replace an SUV.  Hopefully a number of EV or hybrid options will be available then” ● “So long as I can get one on my price range. Likely next car will be a replacement for our family SUV so will need to fit all the family and gear, the dog, and tow a caravan in the weekends”

When EVs/PHEVs become more affordable:

“The Annual money saved on fossil fuel and other running costs will more than cover any requirement for flying and/or hiring a vehicle for the 1-2 times a year that we need to go on long distance road trips. Whilst lowering our overall annual emissions drastically” ● “Its cheap to run!” ● “Cheaper to run” ● “It’s even worth borrowing money to fund the difference in price between EV and non-EV, as the money saved on fuel will more than cover the interest on the loan” ● “I know there are affordable solutions for whatever my second car or next car purchase will be. I also know that those Solutions are becoming financially and technologically more and more attractive every day” ● “cheap running” ● “I get sick of all the nit-picking about cost. How many people are there out there driving big cars that cost the same as an EV? Anyway, it’s not about short-term cost, it’s about long-term cost” ● “Over the next few years new ones will be somewhat more affordable, and the range of second hand imports somewhat wider…so my choices will only get wider”

But EVs/PHEVs are currently expensive:

The only obstacle is the cost price, and as long as second-hand imports or subsidized vehicles are available, then it is an excellent choice” ● “If I was to buy a hybrid, it will only be because long range BEVs are still out of my price range” ● “As more affordable options come on the market with longer range we will definitely switch our second car to electric but I don’t know when that will be” ● “Just waiting for Lotto so I can get a 2018 Leaf!” ● “Already have a leaf, not selling that. My other car is a falcon wagon, no affordable alternatives yet that are electric” ● “EVs won’t be appropriate for me until they are cheaper and have a lot more range. I don’t expect this for 3-5 years” ● “I would to make my next car an EV, but we’re downsizing and looking in 5-7K range, so EV currently out of budget” ● “We are a family of 5 and already have 2 cars – Leaf + ICE station wagon. If we bought another car it would be to replace our ICE – Second car for us would ideally be a ute or a 4wd. Unlikely that our budget would stretch to an Outlander. Most likely we would make do with what we have (Leaf + Toyota station wagon) for a few more years and then see what is available” ● “I might in the future, buy a B-EV that had greater range. This would satisfy medium range journeys with bikes, and the occasional longer-range journey too. The market, however is in a state of flux at present. The currently available models new, are too expensive or have similar features as the Nissan Leaf but the potential models on the horizon from various manufacturers could appeal in the future” ● “I expect that I have to replace my car that tows the caravan and boat within the next 6 months and at this stage there are only a few hybrid cars available that could do that, and they are only available in the UK. So, I am seriously considering that if I can get a car at the right price, but that may be a challenge” ● “Having owned a PHEV for over 3 years ….love the EV much more than the H part so would love to move to full EV but will be waiting for a few more years I imagine until that next wave of EVs are available post Tesla 3 and something offers all I need. Or might buy a cheaper leaf anyway …..” ● “If I had to replace my petrol vehicle today, I would still replace it with a petrol or diesel vehicle – for range and 4wd. Of course if I could get much greater range and 4wd capability in an EV (without the cost going through the roof), which will happen one day, then I would purchase an EV to replace that too” ● “I slightly begrudge the extra cost of purchase” ● “The range of second hand imports of EVs and PHEVs is still limited but it offers all the vehicle types I would need / consider for my next car…and at affordable prices. New ones are still out of my price range” ● “Depends on funds at the time, but providing I had the coin then EV ever time. Petrol is average and expensive” ● “Cost would be a factor” ● “Depends a little on price and range and whether it will be one of two vehicles”

We also need to improve technology:

“Need to sort the electricity distribution system though. More PV panels on grooves, and better storage batteries” ● “I enjoy driving electric car. Only one concern is it is not convenient for long distance travel due to battery life” ● “The only thing standing in the way of another EV in our household is the current lack of infrastructure to enable easy rapid charging while going on a long journey… that is, failing a Lotto win to allow purchase of a Tesla! However, developments in this area are advancing all the time” ● “I am hopeful that my EV could one day be “re-batteried” for longer range”

Flexible lifestyles: owning EV/PHEV & ICE vehicles

Have 3 cars, 1 EV (60% of travel) and 2 ICE (40% of travel). The next car we buy will be replacing another ICE with a medium-range EV. The two EVs will then cover >95% of travel. The 4-wheel-drive ICE will then be used for cases that the two EVs aren’t suited for (driving in muddy paddock, heavy towing, long trips with no public charging available)” ● “As an EV owner, and being delighted with it, I can’t imagine why anyone would consider a non-electric vehicle, other than for special purposes not yet covered by the current state of EV development (farm tractor, heavy haulage, etc.)” ● “We have a second vehicle- a campervan. If you are a 2-vehicle family it’s a no-brainer to have an EV as your round-town car” ● “Oh because I just love our leaf and the only reason we kept our big ICE is to tow a trailer and the convenience of travel, but for sure there is no way back to fossil fuels for us!!” ● “I really enjoy my Leaf, and would only change for increased range. However, if I purchase a caravan I will need something to tow it which is likely to be diesel or petrol” ● “We are hugely in favour of electric cars and reluctant to buy a petrol car. But we cannot say “definitely” as we are still tossing up whether we need a car with a greater range etc. Having said that, we are leaning towards being an EV-only household” ● “I would love to buy another EV to replace our second ICE car but we need a car that can tow a boat, drive long distances (we live in the country) and doesn’t come with a big price tag. The Leaf is the only EV currently on the market in NZ that is within our price range, but it can’t tow and its limited range makes it more suited to being a commuter vehicle (it’s perfect for this purpose too)” ● “WE own a motorhome, SUV, Estate VW and Nissan Leaf. The Leaf is the preferred vehicle for commuting and medium-duration journeys. Clearly the motorhome, which is getting on a bit, is not just a mode of transport. The SUV is a decent off-roader/towing vehicle. The VW estate transports the family and 4 bikes + luggage afar” ● “My current EV (Leaf Gen II) works perfectly for our day to day use.  We have retained our internal combustion car for longer trips (mostly too and from our bach).  I believe within 5 years that long range EVs will be available at an affordable price and hence I will have no use for IC tech. Also – I do love driving passed petrol stations and not stopping …” ● “I’m lucky enough to have a good retirement income.  This also allows me to keep an old ICV vehicle going for towing and long trips, so I can dodge the problems of lack of charging infrastructure” ● “Currently we have 2 cars. One full EV the other petrol for long distances. Expect the next new car to replace the petrol in about 5 years. I hope that by then a full EV replacement will have the range” ● “At the moment I have “hybrid” capability via two cars, collectively worth about $26K. A 2011 1st gen Leaf for short trips/ around-town running does about 15,000km p.a. a 2006 ICE for long distances, on which it gets 6.4l/100km and travels about 20,000km p.a. so if I replace a car, which one is it? or do I take the plunge and buy just one?  if so, the Hyundai ICONIQ looks appealing”

The PHEV lifestyle

“Next will probably be a plug-in hybrid.  This is the most convenient for longer journeys.  For example, it would be difficult to get to New Plymouth just on electric from Auckland. We have friends in Whangamata but their charging station was working but now is shown as coming soon.  I emailed about this and they are waiting for a part to arrive. So, there is still a little anxiety about distance.  A plug-in hybrid would be fine around town with no need for petrol”

Hybrids/PHEVs just don’t cut it

“I would NOT buy a hybrid” ● “I regard a hybrid as a bit of a cop-out” ● “I would buy a pure EV; not a hybrid. Cheaper running, less maintenance and less polluting” ● “if I replace a car I can tell you for sure is that it won’t be a PHEV.  That seems to be a compromise that achieves the worst of both worlds.  excessively complicated and not very efficient”

New owners/ other:

“Have already ordered a new 2018 Nissan Leaf which is due to arrive in the next couple of months” ● “It is up to the owner to decide if they will replace next car with a hybrid” ● “Have only had an EV for a month and still need to understand all the costs and benefits” ● “I’ll be looking for a crashed Leaf – to build a new project car” ● “Still very new to the EV – just had a Nissan Leaf for 30 days. But really enjoying its quiet drive and cheap running costs. My dad who brought a similarly priced Corolla recently said yesterday that he thought he have brought a Leaf instead. My only concern is how well the battery will last over 10+ years” ● “I love my EV, but I haven’t had it very long so want to see how the batteries go!” ● “You are preaching to the choir” ● “We rather unexpectedly brought our EV before Christmas – mostly for Peninsular to town runs. It’s great & we are starting to trust our experience with battery life. So grateful we didn’t go hybrid route- it wouldn’t have been of true value on our shopping basket runs”

Thanks!

This survey was  partly funded by the Government’s Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund, administered by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

What should we ask the members next?

Please suggest questions to ask of your fellow EV owners in future 1-click surveys – email your requests to wecan@flipthefleet.com.

Monica Peters, Henrik Moller, Morgan Knoesen and Dima Ivanov

20 January 2018