range anxiety

[ reynj ang-zahy-i-tee ]

noun

, Informal.

1. the apprehension or fear that an electric vehicle’s battery will run out of power before reaching one’s intended destination or a charging station:

   Studies have shown that range anxiety is a major psychological obstacle in the quest to popularize the electric car.

Word History and Origins

Origin of range anxiety¹

First recorded in 1995–2000

Example Sentences

For the first nine months of this year, however, the market share has inched up to 25.6%, amid continuing concerns among some consumers over the higher cost for EVs and so-called range anxiety.

From Los Angeles Times

For potential EV drivers, there is also the question of battery size to reduce range anxiety.

From Science Daily

But given lingering range anxiety and U.S. preference for excess, any carmaker that wants to reach mass-market sales that rival their gas-powered equivalents can’t hope to do so without offering long-range options.

From Seattle Times

“People say ‘range anxiety’ — it’s like it’s the driver’s fault,” he said.

From New York Times

The breakthrough could alleviate "range anxiety" among drivers who worry electric vehicles cannot travel long distances without a time-consuming recharge.

From Science Daily