The clock is ticking for gas-powered vehicles in several countries. In the UK, a ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 has been set, with hybrid sales following suit by 2035. Similarly, Canada is pushing for 100% electric vehicle (EV) sales by 2035. While the change might seem far off, experts say it’s time for gas-car drivers to start adapting.
Adapting to Automatic
One immediate adjustment? Learning to drive without a manual transmission. Since electric cars don’t require gear changes, future drivers will need to get comfortable with automatics. Stuart Masson of The Car Expert calls this transition “car industry 2.0,” emphasizing the need for drivers to embrace new driving experiences.
Though gas stations won’t disappear overnight, their numbers will gradually dwindle as EV charging networks expand. Experts predict a shift similar to what EV users have faced—planning longer journeys around charging stations, but for gas car drivers instead.
In Canada, automakers will need to increase EV offerings incrementally—targeting 20% by 2026, 60% by 2030, and fully phasing out gas models by 2035. However, existing gasoline vehicles will remain on the roads for years after these deadlines.
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Range Anxiety
One of the biggest concerns about EVs is range anxiety. However, Masson argues that this worry is overblown. “The average journey is about nine miles,” he says, while most EVs now boast ranges of around 250 miles, covering typical driving needs with ease.
As gas stations become less common, drivers will need to pre-plan their refueling stops. Masson likens it to the early days of EVs, where careful route planning was essential. “Eventually, it’ll flip,” he explains, with gas drivers needing to think ahead.
Canada’s EV push comes with ambitious infrastructure goals. While there are over 25,500 charging ports now, the target is to reach 33,500 by 2026. However, distribution remains uneven, with most chargers concentrated in Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia.
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Financial Incentives to Drive Change
Governments are incentivizing the transition. In Canada, automakers can earn credits by meeting EV targets or investing in public charging stations. Meanwhile, consumer rebates help lower EV purchase costs.
For those clinging to their gas-powered vehicles, Masson offers some reassurance: “You’ll still be able to drive your petrol car for decades.” However, the reality is clear—drivers need to prepare for an electric future, whether through gradual adaptation or eventual necessity.
The road ahead is electric. As bans on new gasoline cars roll out globally, drivers must adjust to changes in driving habits, infrastructure, and long-term planning. While the transition may be gradual, experts emphasize the importance of starting early.