When it comes to switching to an electric vehicle, one of the most common questions people still ask is: “Will I have enough range?” It’s a fair question, and one we’re hearing less and less. As EV technology, battery performance, and Ireland’s charging infrastructure continue to improve, that once-common concern known as "range anxiety" is quickly becoming less relevant. At Nevo, we’re all about making the switch to electric simple and stress-free, so we’ve taken a closer look at how today’s EVs are designed to put those worries to rest.
What Is Range Anxiety?
Range anxiety is the worry that an electric vehicle will run out of battery before reaching a destination or charging point. It was a valid concern when early EVs had limited ranges, often under 200 kilometres per charge, and charging networks were sparse or slow. This anxiety has understandably influenced purchasing decisions, with many unsure whether an EV could handle longer trips or daily commutes without frequent, inconvenient stops to recharge. The fear isn’t just practical, it’s emotional, often stemming from unfamiliarity with how EVs operate compared to petrol or diesel cars.
Advances in Battery Technology
One of the biggest game-changers has been rapid improvements in battery technology. Today’s electric vehicles commonly offer 350–500 kilometres of range on a single charge, with some models exceeding 600 kilometres. That puts them on par with, or even ahead of, many petrol or diesel cars in real-world use. Battery efficiency has also improved, so EVs use less energy per kilometre. And with innovations like solid-state batteries on the horizon, we can expect even more range and faster charging times in the near future.
Ireland’s Expanding Charging Infrastructure
Ireland’s growing EV adoption has led to major investments in charging infrastructure. Public chargers, once rare and unreliable, are now common on motorways and in towns and cities nationwide. Fast and ultra-rapid chargers can now replenish 80% of a battery in under 30 minutes, making long trips easier than ever. EV Apps and in-car navigation tools also allow drivers to plan routes around charging stops, removing much of the guesswork.
Changing Driving and Charging Habits
Range anxiety tends to disappear as new EV owners adjust their routines. Most people drive well below the range of modern EVs each day, and home charging means starting every morning with a full battery. For longer journeys, drivers are getting used to “top-up” charging, stopping for a quick charge during a break, rather than waiting for a full recharge. Once charging becomes part of your routine, it stops being a concern.
Real-World Experience and Awareness
As EV ownership grows, with SIMI figures showing steady increases, real-world experience is replacing outdated perceptions. Hearing from friends, family, or online creators about the ease of living with an EV builds confidence. Most EV drivers report they rarely get close to running flat, even on longer journeys. That first-hand reassurance is helping to shift range anxiety from a major fear to a fading myth.
Why Nevo Believes Range Anxiety Is Becoming Irrelevant
Simply put, range anxiety isn’t the obstacle it once was. With longer-lasting batteries, improved efficiency, widespread fast-charging, and greater public awareness, EV drivers can go further, charge faster, and drive with more confidence. The growing EV ecosystem, from home chargers to expanding public networks, means the worry of running out of charge is now largely avoidable. At Nevo, we believe there’s never been a better time to make the switch to electric, and leave range anxiety in the rearview mirror.