The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is no longer a distant goal—it’s quickly becoming a reality. Countries like the UK and Canada are leading the way with ambitious plans to phase out gas-powered vehicles. The UK aims to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with hybrid models following by 2035. Similarly, Canada has set its sights on achieving 100% EV sales by 2035. While these timelines may seem far enough into the future, experts are warning gas car drivers to start preparing now for the changes that will inevitably come with the transition to electric vehicles.
One of the first adjustments drivers will face is getting used to automatic transmissions. Unlike traditional gas-powered cars equipped with manual gearboxes, EVs operate without gears, offering a much simpler driving experience. Stuart Masson, a representative from The Car Expert, calls this shift “car industry 2.0.” He highlights that while the transition to automatic transmissions makes driving easier, it can feel unfamiliar to those who have spent years driving manual vehicles. For drivers who enjoy the control of manual gear shifting, adapting to the smooth acceleration and gear-free driving of EVs may take some time. However, the simplicity and efficiency of EVs will ultimately win over even the most hesitant drivers.
Another significant change gas car drivers must anticipate is the gradual decline of gas stations. While gas stations won’t disappear overnight, their numbers will shrink as EV infrastructure expands. For gas car owners, this shift means planning long trips more carefully. The convenience of easily finding a gas station may no longer be a given, and drivers will need to strategize their routes just as early EV adopters did with charging stations.
Canada’s EV adoption strategy underscores this shift. The Canadian government requires automakers to increase the availability of electric vehicles incrementally: 20% by 2026, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. While these targets are aggressive, it’s important to note that gas-powered vehicles currently on the roads will still be in use for decades, offering a transitional period. However, as new EV models dominate the market and gas stations dwindle, it will become increasingly challenging to rely solely on gasoline-powered vehicles.
One of the primary concerns for drivers considering the switch to EVs is range anxiety—the fear of running out of power before reaching a charging station. However, Masson believes this concern is overblown. He points out that “the average journey is about nine miles,” which is far shorter than the range offered by most modern EVs. Many electric cars now boast ranges of up to 250 miles on a single charge, more than enough to meet the daily driving needs of most drivers. With the continued improvement of EV battery technology, range anxiety will become far less of a concern in the years ahead.
As gas stations become less common, gas car drivers will find it increasingly important to plan their fuel stops in advance. This situation mirrors the early challenges EV owners faced when charging infrastructure was limited. However, as more infrastructure investments are made, charging EVs is becoming far more convenient. The expansion of charging networks will continue to push drivers toward electric vehicles, accelerating the decline of traditional gas-powered cars.
To meet its EV adoption goals, Canada is making significant investments in charging infrastructure. Currently, the country has more than 25,500 public charging ports, and this number is expected to grow to 33,500 by 2026. While provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia lead the way in EV infrastructure, there is still room for growth in other regions. These investments are critical in ensuring a seamless transition to EVs, making it easier for drivers to charge their cars no matter where they live.
Governments are also introducing financial incentives to encourage EV adoption. In Canada, automakers can earn credits by meeting production targets or investing in public charging networks. Additionally, rebates and subsidies are available to reduce the upfront costs of EVs for consumers, making them a more affordable option. These financial incentives are designed to accelerate the shift to EVs while easing the financial burden for buyers.
For drivers who prefer to stick with their gas-powered vehicles, Masson provides some reassurance. “You’ll still be able to drive your petrol car for decades,” he says. However, the reality remains clear: the global automotive industry is steadily moving toward electrification. Whether drivers choose to adapt now or wait until change becomes unavoidable, the shift to electric vehicles is inevitable.
As bans on the sale of new gasoline vehicles come into effect worldwide, drivers will need to prepare for significant changes in their driving habits, the availability of fuel stations, and long-term vehicle planning. This transition to an electric future will happen gradually, but experts emphasize the importance of starting now. By becoming familiar with the benefits of EVs, embracing new technologies, and adjusting to the expanding infrastructure, drivers can ensure they’re ready for the changes ahead.
In the end, the road to electric mobility represents a major transformation in the way we drive and power our vehicles. While some may view this shift with hesitation, it offers exciting opportunities for cleaner, more efficient transportation. For drivers willing to adapt, the transition to electric vehicles can be smooth, cost-effective, and ultimately beneficial for both individuals and the planet. Whether drivers prepare now or wait until necessity forces them to change, one thing is certain: the electric future is coming, and it’s time to get ready.
