Fear of insufficient battery range, known as “range anxiety,” is one of the most commonly cited reasons why drivers hesitate to switch to electric vehicles. Although battery technology has advanced significantly and charging infrastructure is gradually expanding, this issue remains present in public discussions about electromobility.
However, a key question arises: is “range anxiety” today a real and practical problem, or is it largely a result of habits and perceptions formed during the early stages of electric vehicle development? In this article, we will examine where this fear comes from, how the range of electric vehicles has changed, and in which situations concern is justified—and when it no longer represents a real obstacle. Let’s begin.
What Is “Range Anxiety” and Why Does It Exist?
As noted in the introduction, the term “range anxiety” refers to drivers’ concern that an electric vehicle will not have sufficient range to reach its destination or the next available charging station without difficulty. This fear is not limited to the actual technical limits of the vehicle, but also relates to uncertainty about the availability and reliability of charging infrastructure.
The reasons behind “range anxiety” partly stem from the early stages of electric vehicle development, when driving ranges were limited and charging networks were sparse. These early experiences shaped perceptions that have persisted to this day, even in situations where real-world conditions differ significantly from those of a decade ago.
It is also important to distinguish between the psychological and practical aspects of this issue. The psychological aspect arises from habits formed while driving conventional vehicles, where fuel is quickly available and can be refilled at almost any location. The practical aspect, on the other hand, is linked to specific situations—longer journeys, routes with fewer charging stations, and the time required for charging. In practice, “range anxiety” is often a combination of both factors, with their relative importance varying largely depending on how the vehicle is used.
How Has the Range of Electric Vehicles Changed?
Over the past several years, the range of most electric vehicles has increased significantly thanks to larger batteries and more efficient energy management systems. While earlier models often had real-world ranges below 200 km, today’s electric vehicles typically offer over 300 km per charge, with some models exceeding 500 km under real driving conditions. This means that most driver profiles—especially those who primarily travel on urban and suburban routes—can meet their daily needs without feeling limited by range.
As an example, we can highlight the Voyah Free, an electric SUV from Dongfeng’s premium lineup, which offers a range of up to 735 km on a single charge according to the WLTP standard, placing it among the vehicles with one of the longest ranges in its class.
Who Really Needs a Range of 400+ km?
A range of 400 km or more is most relevant for drivers who regularly cover longer distances without frequent charging—for example, intercity travel or longer trips outside urban areas. In such scenarios, greater range allows for wider spacing between charging points and more flexibility when planning journeys.
On the other hand, for most everyday driving—where average daily mileage is well below available range—vehicles capable of covering 300–400 km are more than sufficient and, in practice, reduce the need for frequent charging stops.
Modern Electric Models – Real-World Examples
As battery technology and vehicle range continue to evolve, the market is seeing models that address real driver needs in different ways. Examples of such solutions include the Dongfeng Box, Voyah Free, and Voyah Courage, each representing a different approach within electric mobility.
The Dongfeng Box is a compact electric vehicle ideal for urban conditions and everyday driving, where shorter trips pose no challenge, and a small turning radius combined with good visibility significantly improves ease of maneuvering in traffic. In contrast, the Voyah Free stands out for its exceptionally long range (over 700 km according to the WLTP standard), allowing many drivers to plan longer journeys with confidence. The Voyah Courage, meanwhile, strikes a balance between space, equipment, and performance, making it ideal for users seeking a versatile model for daily use.
In practice, these models illustrate how modern electric vehicles are no longer limited to technological experimentation, but instead offer concrete solutions for different driving styles and lifestyles. For this reason, we invite you to visit our showroom and experience these models through a test drive, so you can see firsthand which electric vehicle best suits your needs.
Where Can You Charge Your Vehicle?
In Montenegro, there are currently around 40 registered charging stations for electric vehicles, most of which are located in urban areas. Available registry data shows that the highest concentration is in Podgorica and Budva, while other charging stations are spread across municipalities throughout the country, including Nikšić, Herceg Novi, Kotor, Ulcinj, and others.
It is important to note that most of these charging stations are low- to mid-power units, which makes them suitable for top-up charging during longer parking periods or while spending time at a specific location. However, the number of fast chargers that allow significantly shorter charging times is still limited.
That said, certain examples indicate that the situation is gradually improving. The recently opened fast charging station at Pelev Brijeg, with a power output of 200 kW, represents an important step forward in the context of long-distance travel and range management. Such stations enable much faster charging and directly contribute to reducing “range anxiety,” especially on routes where more detailed planning was previously required.
The Difference Between Urban Driving and Long-Distance Travel
For everyday driving within cities and suburban areas—where shorter distances are covered and most drivers can charge their vehicles at home or at work—this level of charging infrastructure is usually sufficient and does not pose a serious challenge. Urban charging networks provide relatively easy access without significant interruptions to daily driving.
However, when it comes to longer journeys or travel between more distant cities, the situation remains more challenging. The lower availability of charging stations along these routes requires additional planning and careful energy management, as the number of fast chargers is not as high as in larger European destinations.
When Is “Range Anxiety” Justified—and When Is It Not?
Based on everything discussed, it is clear that “range anxiety” is no longer a universal issue today, but rather a situational one. It is justified in the context of long-distance travel through less well-covered routes, where infrastructure is scarce and charging time and access to fast chargers play a crucial role. In such cases, concern about range is not a matter of perception, but of realistic planning.
On the other hand, in everyday use—especially in urban environments and among drivers who cover mostly short to medium distances—“range anxiety” increasingly loses its practical relevance. Modern electric cars offer driving ranges that far exceed average daily needs, while the existing charging network, although still developing, provides a basic level of security and predictability in use.
It can therefore be concluded that “range anxiety” today largely depends on how a vehicle is used, rather than on the technology itself. As ranges increase and infrastructure continues to expand, this concern is gradually shifting from a real limitation to a matter of habit and awareness. For a growing number of drivers, it becomes a challenge that can almost always be anticipated, rather than a barrier that automatically rules out electric vehicles as an option.
