As the need to reduce carbon emissions continues to gain traction, electric cars have become increasingly popular. However, most of the cars sold today are still powered by fossil fuels, and that isn't likely to change anytime soon, according to Jason Fenske of Engineering Explained. One of the reasons electric cars are still not as popular as gasoline vehicles is because of the energy density disparity – gasoline is 13 times more energy dense than the best lithium-ion batteries. This means that it takes a larger and heavier battery pack to power an electric car with an acceptable amount of range.
Cost is also a major factor in why electric cars are not as popular. Since it is more profitable for an automaker to sell a gasoline engine-powered car at the same price, rather than an electric car, most automakers focus on the former. Additionally, the lack of charging infrastructure for electric cars and the lack of marketing makes it more difficult for electric cars to make an impact.
Although electric cars are making strides, automakers are still investing in improving internal-combustion engines. This includes features such as variable-compression gasoline engines, 10-speed automatic transmissions, and engine start-stop systems. As of now, hybrids are likely to play a big role in the coming years.