WetEV said:
GRA said:
Here's the thing. Should we give welfare to the well-off, or those who are struggling with the necessities? Who benefits more for the same amount of money spent?
Development of new technology isn't welfare.
That's not what we're talking about I have no problem with subsidising RD&D, and even giving a manufacturer a little help getting started, ala' Tesla's loan for Fremont.
In this case, though, it's subsidising inessential technology that fell into the "toys for the well-off" category. With the 2022 Bolt's price drop, we are just now getting into the era when BEVs start to have the necessary price and performance to be practical for a broad spectrum of buyers, and we're still lacking the needed infrastructure.
The next step on the way to mass market practicality (assuming the necessary charging infrastructure) will be 300 miles for $30k, with a full selection of models. Beyond that, 400 miles for $25k.
Personally, I've come to the conclusion that a BEV with an acceptable sacrifice of convenience for road trips will need an 800V or more pack, so I'll definitely be paying attention to the Ionic5/EV6, although they're both a bit too long and probably lack the range I want, as well as likely too pricey.
Once solid-state packs arrive and get into mass production, it will likely just be price that needs improvement. I'm hopeful that one way or another we'll get where we need to be by 2030.