The success of EVs is massively underreported

Media framing and accuracy

• Some see mainstream coverage emphasizing “EV slowdown” despite rising global sales and call this a vibes-driven narrative similar to past coverage of wind/solar.
• Others distrust a free EV-focused report that claims success, seeing conflict of interest and possible cherry‑picking.
• Several argue it’s mostly a framing issue: growth is still strong, but the rate of growth has declined from earlier “ludicrous” levels.

Subsidies, mandates, and policy

• Many note EV adoption has been heavily driven by subsidies, regulations, and low‑emission zones.
• Examples: subsidy removal in New Zealand and Germany coinciding with sharp drops in EV sales; London‑style daily charges for older polluting vehicles.
• Debate over whether governments are “forcing” EVs. Some say no one is literally forced to buy one; others argue de‑facto coercion via bans and penalties.

Affordability and equity

• Repeated concern that EVs remain “toys for the wealthy”: high upfront cost, financing at higher interest rates, dependence on home ownership and private parking.
• Worries that future ICE bans plus limited used EV supply will hurt lower‑income drivers.
• Counterpoint: total cost of ownership can already beat comparable ICE in some cases, especially with cheap electricity and/or solar.

Charging, infrastructure, and practicality

• Home charging is widely seen as the decisive factor. Without it, public chargers are viewed as expensive, inconvenient, and unreliable.
• Range and network quality are reported as “good enough” in some parts of Europe but still problematic in other regions and at peak times.
• Apartment dwellers and renters often lack realistic charging options today.

Climate goals and role of government

• Some argue only strong policy can accelerate decarbonization fast enough; EV mandates target manufacturers more than consumers.
• Others insist markets and superior products should drive change, warning that heavy-handed policies risk inequality and backlash.

Driving experience and technology

• Many EV owners report superior driving feel (instant torque, quiet, comfort, heating/AC without idling) and are reluctant to go back to ICE.
• Skeptics downplay performance and torque as secondary to cost, comfort, and infrastructure.

Alternatives and broader systems

• Hybrids, CNG, and especially bikes/e‑bikes are discussed as more practical for many, though bike adoption faces cultural and infrastructure resistance.
• Some highlight missing features and “crapware” in connected EVs, plus underused potential for vehicle‑to‑home and solar integration.