Planning to buy an EV: Range isn't the only number that could surprise you later

Range shock

That impressive ARAI range printed in the brochure may not be what you see on a packed city road. Traffic, air-conditioning and hilly terrain can drag an EV’s real-world range 20-30% below claimed figures, making range research crucial before you sign the cheque.

Charging hunt

Buying the EV is only half the equation; finding somewhere convenient to charge it can shape the ownership experience. Buyers should map chargers near home, office and regular routes beforehand, especially when longer journeys could leave fewer convenient options.

Society hurdle

Your dream EV may arrive before your home is ready for it. Installing a 7.2kW wall-box requires a dedicated electrical point, while apartment residents may also need housing society approval — a detail worth settling before the new car reaches the parking bay.

Battery fineprint

An eight-year or 160,000-km battery warranty can sound reassuring, but the headline number doesn't tell the whole story. Capacity-retention conditions can vary between manufacturers, making the fine print potentially as important as the warranty period itself.

Resale gamble

Petrol-car resale values have decades of history behind them; EVs are still writing their rulebook. Concerns around battery degradation can influence used-EV demand, making the likely resale value of a particular model worth investigating before buying new.

Traffic test

A quiet showroom test drive may hide the conditions that matter most. Take the EV into peak traffic, switch on the AC and experience regenerative braking yourself — the resulting efficiency, comfort and driving behaviour could reveal more than a brochure ever will.