As more Bhutanese buy electric vehicles, there are growing concerns about the country’s ability to keep up with charging needs.
With the rise in electric vehicles (EVs) across Bhutan, many are wondering if the country’s charging stations can keep up. More and more people are choosing electric cars for their environmental benefits and cost savings, but the number of charging stations is still limited, especially outside of Thimphu and Paro.
Tenzin, a taxi driver in Thimphu, made the switch to an electric vehicle last year. “It is great for the environment, and it saves money on fuel,” he says. “But sometimes, when I drive longer distances, it is hard to find a charging station, especially on the highways.”
Pema, an EV owner in Thimphu, shares similar concerns. “I love my EV, but I only feel comfortable driving within the city,” she explains. “Outside of Thimphu, there are very few charging stations. It makes long trips difficult.”
The government has been encouraging the shift to electric cars by offering tax benefits and subsidies. However, while more people are buying EVs, the charging infrastructure hasn’t expanded fast enough.
With the growing popularity of electric cars, both Tenzin and Pema agree that expanding the number of charging stations especially in rural areas is essential. “It’s exciting to see more EVs on the road,” says Tenzin. “But we need more chargers if we want this to really work for everyone.”
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