Ejercicio Option 2 - Question 2 · Inglés PAU Cantabria Extraordinaria 2024

Electric cars are having more problems, but not because they’re electric

1 According to Consumer Reports ' latest annual auto reliability survey, electric vehicles (EVs) experience 79% more problems than other vehicles, but not necessarily due to their electric nature. Jake Fisher, head of the group's auto testing center, explains this is because electric cars are mostly new models. New car models, in general, tend to have more issues, regardless of their propulsion system, as manufacturers haven't had enough time to address all the potential problems. Fisher also points out that “EVs are often higher-priced models with advanced technology, such as safety sensors, gadgets and screens”. The abundance of these sophisticated features provides more opportunities for things to go wrong.

2 Consumer Reports conducts annual surveys among its subscribers, collecting data on their experiences with all kinds of vehicles. The survey reveals that, on average, plug-in hybrids are the least reliable models. Consumer Reports attributes this to their vulnerability to problems found in both gas and electric vehicles, given their combination of gas engines, electric motors and charging systems. In contrast, non-plug-in hybrids emerge as the most reliable vehicles, thanks to their association with well-known automakers such as Toyota, Honda and Hyundai. These manufacturers are famous for making cars that don't break down easily. Also, these hybrids have a simpler design, minimizing the risk of technical issues.

3 While EVs face certain challenges, their positive impact on the environment remains undeniable. Firstly, they don't produce harmful emissions when running, contributing to improved air quality. Additionally, the widespread adoption of EVs leads to a decrease in oil spills and water contamination associated with fossil fuel extraction and transportation. Furthermore, the smart technology in electric cars, such as efficient batteries, ensures energy is used wisely, preventing waste. Lastly, the use of electric vehicles reduces noise pollution, creating quieter and more peaceful urban environments.

4 Consumer Reports ' survey might lead us to think that with so many reported problems, EVs are more expensive in the long term, especially considering they are often higher-priced models with advanced technology features. However, in my opinion, this is not completely true. Governments worldwide recognize the importance of transitioning to cleaner transportation and often provide financial incentives like tax credits and discounts for people who buy electric cars. This makes it easier for people to afford the initial cost. Additionally, EVs require less maintenance and have lower fuel costs than traditional cars, contributing to long-term savings for the owners. Moreover, as technology advances, the cost of batteries is decreasing, making electric cars more affordable in the long run when compared to the rising costs of traditional vehicles. So, despite challenges, the combination of environmental benefits and financial incentives makes electric cars an appealing choice for conscious consumers.

Adapted from CNN, 4 December 2023

Question 2: [2 POINTS] Choose and answer only TWO of the following questions in your own words according to the text.

a)

According to Jake Fisher, why might electric cars seem to have more problems?

b)

How does the use of electric vehicles help the environment?

c)

Why does the author of the text think that EVs are not necessarily expensive in the long term?