The Curious Case of the Electric Car: Why Efficiency Took a Century to Win

The provided source explains why internal combustion engine vehicles dominated for approximately 150 years despite the initial promise and superior efficiency of electric cars. Early electric vehicles were convenient for urban use but suffered from limited battery range and slow charging times, making them impractical for longer journeys. The First World War spurred advancements in internal combustion technology, while the invention of the electric starter made gasoline cars much easier to operate. Furthermore, lower fuel costs, mass production, and the rapid expansion of gasoline infrastructure cemented the internal combustion engine's supremacy, as electrical infrastructure lagged significantly. This historical overview highlights the interplay of technological limitations, infrastructure, and economic factors that shaped automotive development until recent advancements in battery and charging technology began to reverse the trend.