4 ms·
The amount in the tank is entirely different from the range it represents, which is also modified by environmental conditions such as altitude and temperature.
by jpollock 14y ago
The amount in the tank is entirely different from the range it represents, which is also modified by environmental conditions such as altitude and temperature.
The difference between the two situations is the number of places that you can refill the tank. Diesel drivers (in the US), have similar concerns to the electric car driver.
- Someone 14y agoThe number of places you can, the speed at which you can, the relative frequency at which you have to refill all work against electric cars at the moment. Diesel, AFAIK, is better of in the sense that you can drive farther without refilling. Also, for both petrol and diesel, customers can somewhat reliably estimate how far a tank will carry them. Part of that is experience, but for now, I have the impression that Tesla, with all its electronics, cannot even break even with 'normal' cars at that single measure. They are working hard on refill speed and refill locations and I expect they are working hard on their battery control systems to improve remaining range estimates. I think they need all three to create a viable mass market product.
- drbawb 14y agoTheir concerns may be similar, but EVs still have it far worse for range anxiety. Diesel drivers have the advantage of their fuel being quite portable once you've found a source. The energy input required to move a diesel truck 100mi. is still pretty portable if you get a ride, no tow required. An EV has to be _moved_ to a charging source; it's very hard to bring energy to the EV in the quality/quantities required.