EVs Often Catch Fire - And Other Popular Myths Busted

Electric cars are no longer the future - they’re the present. You see them silently gliding through city streets, plugged into home chargers on driveways, and even zipping down motorways on long trips. Yet, for every driver who’s switched to electric, there’s someone on the fence - still unsure, still sceptical, still asking if EVs are really as good as everyone says. The truth? Most of the concerns people have about electric cars are built on myths that refuse to die. From “EVs don’t last” to “they catch fire easily,” misinformation spreads faster than a Tesla in Ludicrous Mode.

Recent research shows that 8 out of 10 used electric cars retain over 90% of their original battery health, proving that today’s EVs are more reliable and durable than many people think. So, it’s time to bust some myths and see what’s really true when it comes to owning and buying electric cars in 2025.

Myth 1: Electric Cars Lose Their Battery Power Quickly

This one just refuses to die. The idea that EV batteries degrade fast is based on early-generation models from over a decade ago. Modern EVs use advanced lithium-ion packs that are far more durable.

A 2025 study found that 80% of used EVs still have over 90% battery health, even after years of use. Most EV batteries are designed to last well beyond 150,000 miles. That’s comparable to, or even better than, petrol and diesel engines when it comes to lifespan.

Tip: Before buying a used EV, always run a full car history check on TopCarCheck.co.uk to see detailed MOT data, mileage history, and battery performance trends where available.

Myth 2: EVs Randomly Catch Fire

This one’s been fuelled by dramatic headlines and viral TikToks. In reality, electric cars are far less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel vehicles. According to insurance data, the risk of fire is roughly 10 times lower for electric vehicles compared to combustion cars.

Most reported EV fires are caused by severe accidents or improper charging, not spontaneous combustion. Modern safety systems include thermal monitoring, automatic cutoffs, and reinforced battery enclosures to prevent overheating.

Myth 3: You Can’t Drive Far in an Electric Car

Range anxiety is fading fast. Newer models easily exceed 250 miles per charge, and some premium models go beyond 350 miles. Even affordable used EVs like the Kia e-Niro or Hyundai Kona Electric comfortably manage 200+ miles.

Plus, with more than 60,000 public charge points across the UK, planning longer trips is no longer a guessing game. Apps like ZapMap make it easy to find chargers along your route, and many rapid chargers can top you up to 80% in 20–30 minutes.

Myth 4: Charging an EV Takes Forever

Sure, home charging overnight is slower, but that’s kind of the point - plug it in, go to sleep, and wake up to a full battery. Public fast chargers can deliver up to 200 miles of range in half an hour, depending on the car.

If you’re driving long distances regularly, the real trick is learning to “charge smart.” Stop for lunch, plug in, and you’ll be back on the road before you’ve finished your sandwich.

Myth 5: EVs Are More Expensive to Run

Upfront, maybe - but the total cost of ownership is often lower. Electricity is cheaper than petrol, maintenance costs are lower (no oil changes or exhaust issues), and road tax is reduced or even zero for many models.

Some insurers also offer EV-specific discounts, and city drivers save on congestion and clean air zone fees. Over three years, an electric car can save you thousands in running costs.

Myth 6: There Aren’t Enough Chargers in the UK

It used to be a valid concern - not anymore. The UK has seen a huge growth in charging infrastructure, with more public chargers than petrol stations as of 2024. Supermarkets, retail parks, and workplaces are all installing fast chargers to meet demand.

By the end of 2025, it’s expected that 90% of UK drivers will live within 5 miles of a fast charging point.

Myth 7: Used EVs Aren’t Worth It

This myth is fading quickly. Thanks to strong battery reliability and fewer moving parts, used EVs often age better than petrol or diesel cars.

When you buy a used EV, the key is to run a full car history check before you commit. Sites like TopCarCheck.co.uk can reveal hidden issues like past accidents, battery replacements, or mileage discrepancies.

Pro tip: Check for warranty coverage on the battery pack - many manufacturers offer 8-year or 100,000-mile warranties on EV batteries.

Myth 8: Electric Cars Are Boring to Drive

Ask any EV owner, and they’ll tell you otherwise. Instant torque means lightning-fast acceleration - even budget EVs feel quick off the mark. There’s no gear changing, so the drive is smooth and silent.

Models like the Tesla Model 3, Polestar 2, and Cupra Born prove that electric driving can be fun, responsive, and even addictive.

Myth 9: EVs Can’t Tow or Handle Heavy Loads

That used to be true, but not anymore. The latest generation of electric SUVs and pickups, like the Kia EV9, Tesla Model Y, and Audi Q8 e-tron, can tow up to 1,600–2,500 kg with ease.

Battery placement gives EVs a low centre of gravity, which improves stability when towing or carrying heavy loads.

Myth 10: EV Batteries Can’t Be Recycled

They absolutely can. More than 95% of EV batteries can now be recycled or repurposed. Recycled materials are reused in new batteries, cutting waste and costs.

Old EV batteries are also used in energy storage systems, like solar panel backups and grid stabilisers, giving them a second life after they retire from driving.

Myth 11: EVs Aren’t Environmentally Friendly

Some claim EVs just shift pollution from exhaust pipes to power plants. But studies show that even when powered by the current UK energy mix, EVs emit up to 70% less CO₂ over their lifetime than petrol cars.

And as the UK grid becomes greener every year, that gap only widens. Electric cars are getting cleaner, not dirtier.

Myth 12: The Grid Can’t Handle Everyone Switching to EVs

The UK’s National Grid has confirmed multiple times that the system can handle mass EV adoption - especially as more smart chargers and renewable sources come online.

In fact, smart charging technology can even help balance demand by charging cars during off-peak hours, making the grid more efficient rather than overloaded.

The Truth: EVs Are Here to Stay

EV myths linger because change always makes people sceptical. But the facts speak for themselves: today’s electric cars are safer, smarter, and more efficient than ever. Battery life is strong, running costs are low, and technology is improving faster than most people realise.

If you’re thinking about going electric, the smartest move is to check a car’s history before you buy. Use TopCarCheck.co.uk to verify ownership, mileage, MOT history, and more - it’s the easiest way to make sure your future EV has nothing to hide.

Quick Recap: Key Facts That Bust the Biggest Myths

Myth	Truth
EV batteries die quickly	8 in 10 used EVs retain 90%+ battery health
EVs catch fire easily	EVs are 10x less likely to catch fire
Not enough chargers	UK now has more chargers than petrol stations
EVs are too costly	Lower running, tax, and maintenance costs
Used EVs are risky	History checks reveal reliable second-hand options

Final Thoughts

Electric cars are no longer the “future” - they’re the present. The data is clear, the infrastructure is growing, and the myths are falling apart one by one. If you’re ready to make the switch or just want to explore the used EV market, a simple car history check could save you from buying someone else’s problem.

Visit TopCarCheck.co.uk to get a full car history check today and see how easy it is to drive into the electric era with confidence.

Check Your Vehicle History Now

Enter Registration Number

Enter a UK vehicle registration to start your check

Secure checkout via Stripe