Let’s just say I had a lucid experience last week.

While test-driving the new Lucid Gravity SUV, this electric vehicle clearly reaffirmed more than any others I’ve sampled that EVs are on the way to equal and even surpass internal combustion engine vehicles.

It was my smoothest interaction with an EV so far (my Charged Fleet vehicle review is in the works).

The EV industry now faces a period of setbacks and uncertainty, with some backlash brewing over costs after federal tax credits expired last year, which led to plunging sales. Meanwhile, range anxiety, long charging times, and charger shortages continue to spur consumer resistance.

But technology never slacks off as it pushes relentlessly forward. 

The Gravity underscores that ongoing advances need to reach their full potential before more buyers feel confident buying EVs.

Here are some successes and pending breakthroughs for EVs likely to boost their appeal against ICE vehicles:

More Range, Faster Charging Times 

New models like the high-range Lucid EVs and the 2027 Volvo EX60, which offers 400 miles of range even with all-wheel drive, will reduce range anxiety. Ultra-fast charging is becoming more common, with some systems adding up to 170 miles of range in 10 minutes. While ICE vehicles can refuel faster, newer chargers are closing the gap in speed. By 2030, an EV driver could pull up to a charging station and be fully filled up and paid within 10 minutes. 

Solar Powered Self-Charging

New tech can enable EVs to generate solar-enhanced power to complement range, at least when the sun is shining. This can reduce the frequency of charging sessions. Wireless charging ports in parking lots and along highways could also prolong charging intervals.

TOC Brings More Value

The total cost of ownership now still favors EVs, but over a longer period, given the higher purchase cost. The fact remains that most electricity is cheaper than gasoline, and EVs require fewer parts and maintenance. The concept of an “old car” will shift now that batteries endure longer than expected. 

And when you consider how Chinese-built BYD EVs are advancing, and their lower prices, the TOC for EVs will gain value.

Long-Term Emissions Cut 

Even when factoring in emissions from electricity generation, EVs tend to emit less carbon dioxide over their lifetimes than ICE vehicles. As grids also become greener, zero-tailpipe-emission EVs will increasingly contribute to cleaner air.

Charging Infrastructure Will Expand 

While charging infrastructure remains tight and/or sparsely available in some regions, the number of EV chargers is rapidly growing, enabling more convenient charging in urban areas. 

Chargers can now also electronically recognize a customer vehicle and credit card, ensuring seamless insertion and charging without the use of apps, credit cards, or charger-station commands. 

That is already a step ahead of accessing most ICE vehicle fuel pumps.

Future EV and charger designs are moving toward “gas-pump-like” speeds within the next several years under the right conditions.

Newer, More Affordable EV Models 

More OEMs are bringing cheaper all-electric compacts and crossovers to market to create an affordable tier for more buyers. Many new EVs include advanced infotainment, connectivity, and driver-assist tech that rival or exceed equipment typical in ICE vehicles.

Smarter AI-Driven Features

AI interfaces and functions will improve usability, convenience, customization, and comfort, thereby boosting the appeal of owning an EV. EV platforms are well-suited to integrating cutting-edge smart systems.

For all the naysayers on EVs and media figures declaring them dead, the technology, ingenuity, and creativity behind EVs will win the cost-efficiency race. 

Consumers never need any incentives or influencers to size up which products and options are best for them.