The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is no longer a far-off vision; it’s an inevitable reality shaping the future of transportation. In countries like the United Kingdom and Canada, governments are pushing forward with ambitious plans to phase out gas-powered vehicles entirely. For instance, the UK has committed to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with hybrid models facing a similar fate by 2035. Canada, on the other hand, is striving for 100% EV sales by 2035. While these deadlines may seem distant, experts warn that gas car drivers need to start preparing for the transition now.
One of the earliest adjustments drivers will encounter is adapting to automatic transmissions. Unlike traditional gas-powered cars with manual gearboxes, EVs operate without requiring gear changes. Stuart Masson, a representative from The Car Expert, describes this evolution as “car industry 2.0.” While the driving experience becomes simpler, it might feel unusual to those accustomed to manual transmissions. Embracing this shift is crucial, as it symbolizes the broader changes underway in the automotive world.
The declining presence of gas stations is another significant change on the horizon. Although gas stations won’t vanish overnight, their numbers are expected to dwindle as EV charging networks expand. For drivers of gas-powered cars, this shift will require more thoughtful planning for long-distance travel, similar to how early EV adopters mapped their journeys around charging points. Over time, the ease of finding a gas station may diminish, turning what was once a routine stop into a logistical challenge.
Canada’s EV strategy underscores this transition. Automakers in the country are mandated to steadily increase the availability of EVs, aiming for 20% of new car sales by 2026, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. These ambitious targets ensure that EV adoption grows incrementally while allowing gas-powered vehicles already on the roads to remain in use for decades. This gradual phase-out gives drivers time to adjust but also emphasizes the inevitability of change.
Range anxiety, or the fear of running out of power before reaching a charging station, remains one of the most common concerns for potential EV buyers. However, Stuart Masson argues that this worry is often overblown. “The average journey is about nine miles,” he points out, highlighting that most modern EVs can now travel up to 250 miles on a single charge. This range is more than sufficient for the majority of daily driving needs. As gas stations become less prevalent, the need for meticulous fuel stop planning will intensify for gas car drivers. This situation mirrors the early challenges faced by EV users, who had to navigate limited charging infrastructure. However, as investments in EV infrastructure continue to grow, charging becomes increasingly convenient, further accelerating the decline of gas-powered vehicles.
To support the transition, Canada is investing heavily in expanding its EV charging infrastructure. Currently, the country has over 25,500 charging ports, with plans to increase this number to 33,500 by 2026. However, most of these stations are concentrated in provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia, leaving other regions with room for significant development. This expansion aims to make charging more accessible nationwide, ensuring that EV ownership becomes a practical choice for all Canadians, regardless of location.
Governments are also leveraging financial incentives to encourage the adoption of EVs. In Canada, automakers earn credits by meeting EV production targets or by contributing to public charging infrastructure. For consumers, rebates are available to offset the higher upfront costs of EVs, making them more affordable and attractive. These incentives aim to lower the barriers to EV adoption, ensuring that a broader demographic can participate in the shift toward sustainable transportation.
For those hesitant to part with their gas-powered vehicles, there is some reassurance. Stuart Masson notes that drivers will still be able to use petrol cars for decades. However, he emphasizes that the global automotive landscape is moving undeniably toward electrification. Whether drivers choose to adapt gradually or wait until change becomes unavoidable, the shift is happening, and preparation is essential.
Adapting to this new reality requires a proactive mindset. As bans on new gasoline vehicles take effect globally, drivers must consider changes in driving habits, infrastructure access, and long-term vehicle ownership strategies. The transition to an electric future may be gradual, but starting early ensures a smoother adjustment. By embracing new technologies and preparing for a changing landscape, drivers can navigate the shift confidently and effectively.
The move toward electrification is not just about replacing vehicles; it’s about reshaping how we think about mobility, energy use, and sustainability. The automotive world is undergoing a revolution, and being ready for the road ahead means understanding the opportunities and challenges that come with it. Whether it’s learning to appreciate the simplicity of automatic transmissions, adapting to fewer gas stations, or exploring the financial benefits of EV ownership, drivers who take steps now will be better equipped for the electric era. As governments, automakers, and consumers align toward a common goal, the future of transportation is poised to be cleaner, smarter, and more efficient. Preparing for this shift is no longer an option but a necessity for those who want to stay ahead in an evolving world.
