EV push hit by lack of charging points – EQ Mag
BHUBANESWAR: With a steady rise in the number of electronic vehicles in the state, lack of adequate charging stations is causing problems for owners.
As per available data, the state has only 150 charging stations for EVs with the highest of 22 in Khurda followed by 18 in Ganjam. The capital, which reportedly has a large number of EVs, has 19 public charging stations. In absence of required infrastructure for EVs in public places, people largely depend on in-house facilities to charge their vehicles. Many EV owners are unable to travel long distances over the fear that the charge may run out and they get stranded midway.
“I have recently bought an electric two-wheeler, which has a capacity to run about 150 km on a single charge. This makes it suitable for use inside the city only. I cant even think of travelling outside the city due to the unavailability of charging stations,” Nayapalli resident Bikash Maharana said.
Bikash has set up a personal charging station for his EV at his rented apartment. Many others like Bikash have been facing similar problems. “EVs are comfortable and environment-friendly, but we need more charging stations in public places,” Vimal Ojha, another EV user, said.
People are also seeking more subsidies from the government for buying EVs. Presently, a two-wheeler EV costs about Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.20 lakh and more while a three-wheeler costs about Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh and above. The government provides subsidy between Rs 10,000 and Rs 30,000.
An EV car costs about Rs 9 lakh to Rs 15 lakh and above. “The cost of EVs, especially cars, are too high. It is also foolish to buy one now because we do not have enough charging stations in public places, mainly on highways,” Patia resident Narayan Jena said.
According to information, an average four-wheeler electric vehicle runs about 200-300 km on a single charge. “The mileage is not an issue. The question is if we hit the highway and run short of charge on the midway, who will come for our rescue?” Jena asked.
Source: PTI
