I like the perspective, though I agree that even while #EV take a larger share of the new vehicle market, older fossil fuel based vehicles will be around for decades, unless a major shift happens and an equitable buy-out by governments occur, something like a cash-for-guns program
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/05022026/inside-clean-energy-when-gas-stations-vanish/
@jadp it doesn't take much imagination to see a fossil fuel death spiral: profit currently requires scale. Smaller gas stations will be the first to go as they have to increase prices to cover for lower volumes. This will send a price signal that makes EVs even more attractive.
There will be fewer gas stations as the larger ones fight for the remaining customers, but now people have to travel farther for gas, yet another factor pushing people to electric.
It could go quickly once it starts.
@jadp
The problem, alluded to in the article is that the viability of the petrol distribution network is not a linear thing; there is a floor below which it all stops working.
Remember when every small shopping centre had one or or more DVD rental stores. A small change in the market and they all went away.
I can see governments having to subsidise fuel companies to prevent too rapid a collapse. I'm not happy with that.
@ocratato you are absolutely correct. My understanding is that fossil fuel companies already receive more in government subsidies and tax breaks than sustainable energy. I would rather see that money go towards helping those who have older vehicles move on to EVs. The faster fossil fuel goes away, the better.
@jadp looking on from afar, I can’t imagine US fed or state governments – especially right-wing ones – being prepared to regulate the fossil fuel industry or plan ahead for a smooth transition in any meaningful way 😕
