The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is no longer a distant possibility but a fast-approaching reality. Governments worldwide, including the UK and Canada, are setting ambitious timelines to phase out gas-powered vehicles. The UK plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with hybrids following by 2035. Similarly, Canada aims for 100% EV sales by 2035. While these deadlines may seem years away, experts urge gas car drivers to prepare for major changes now.
A Shift to Automatic Transmissions
One of the first significant adjustments for gas car drivers is adapting to automatic transmissions. Unlike traditional gas-powered vehicles that often feature manual gearboxes, EVs operate without gears. Stuart Masson, from The Car Expert, calls this transition “car industry 2.0.” EVs offer a simpler, smoother driving experience, but for those accustomed to manual transmissions, the shift may take some getting used to.
The Gradual Decline of Gas Stations
Gas stations won’t disappear overnight, but their numbers will dwindle as EV adoption increases. For drivers of gas-powered vehicles, this means planning trips more carefully, especially long-distance journeys. This scenario mirrors the early days of EV adoption when drivers had to strategize routes around limited charging stations.
In Canada, automakers must meet incremental EV sales targets—20% by 2026, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. While gas-powered vehicles already on the road will remain in use for years, drivers should anticipate a gradual decrease in the convenience of finding gas stations.
Addressing Range Anxiety
Range anxiety—the fear of running out of power before reaching a charging station—remains a top concern for potential EV buyers. However, Masson suggests this worry is often overstated. “The average journey is about nine miles,” he explains, adding that modern EVs now offer ranges of up to 250 miles on a single charge, sufficient for most daily driving needs.
Gas car drivers may eventually face a version of this anxiety as gas stations become less common. Planning fuel stops ahead of time will become increasingly important, much like EV drivers’ initial reliance on charging maps.
The Expansion of Charging Infrastructure
To support the shift to EVs, governments and private companies are investing heavily in charging infrastructure. In Canada, there are currently over 25,500 charging ports, with plans to expand to 33,500 by 2026. While much of this infrastructure is concentrated in provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia, efforts are underway to increase accessibility nationwide.
Financial Incentives for EV Adoption
Governments are introducing financial incentives to make EVs more appealing. In Canada, automakers earn credits by meeting EV production targets or investing in public charging infrastructure. Additionally, rebates for consumers help offset the higher upfront costs of EVs, making them a more attractive and accessible option.
What About Gas Cars?
For those who wish to hold onto their gas-powered vehicles, there’s no immediate need to panic. “You’ll still be able to drive your petrol car for decades,” Masson reassures. However, the automotive industry is undeniably moving toward electrification. Whether drivers choose to adapt early or wait until change becomes unavoidable, they’ll need to adjust eventually.
Preparing for the Future
The transition to EVs will bring significant changes to driving habits, infrastructure availability, and long-term vehicle planning. Experts emphasize that while the shift may be gradual, the time to start preparing is now.
By understanding new technologies, adapting to automatic transmissions, and keeping an eye on evolving infrastructure, drivers can ease into the era of electric mobility. The road ahead may look different, but with the right mindset, it promises a smoother, cleaner, and more sustainable journey.
