Cars Killed The Horse, VW Thinks EVs Are About To Do The Same To Gas

• 7 min read • EV, electric, engine, autonomous, Tesla

# Cars Killed The Horse, VW Thinks EVs Are About To Do The Same To Gas

Cars Killed The Horse, VW Thinks EVs Are About To Do The Same To Gas

The automotive world is in the midst of a seismic shift. Just as the advent of the automobile rendered the horse and carriage largely obsolete a century ago, today’s push toward electric vehicles (EVs) threatens to eclipse the internal combustion engine (ICE) in the coming decades. Notably, Volkswagen (VW), one of the industry’s giants, has publicly stated that EVs are poised to do to gasoline-powered cars what cars once did to horses. This bold assertion encapsulates the sweeping transformation underway—one that impacts manufacturers, consumers, and motorsport enthusiasts alike.

In this article, we’ll explore the current state of the EV revolution, recent model reveals, industry trends, and what it all means for car lovers and buyers. We’ll also look at how traditional automakers and new players are positioning themselves for the future and what to watch in the coming years.

The Rise of Electric Vehicles: A Historical Perspective

From Horse-Drawn Carriages to Automobiles

Before the 20th century, horses were the primary mode of transport. They were reliable but limited—requiring significant maintenance, care, and space. The automobile, introduced in the late 1800s, gradually replaced horses thanks to innovation, mass production (notably Ford’s Model T in 1908), and increased reliability.

The Modern Shift: Gasoline to Electric

Fast forward to today, and the automotive landscape is undergoing a similar upheaval. The internal combustion engine, dominant for over a century, is now facing decline against the backdrop of climate concerns, tightening emissions regulations, and technological innovation. EVs—powered by batteries rather than fuel tanks—are rapidly gaining market share and technological superiority.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), EV stock worldwide surpassed 10 million units in 2023, with projections indicating exponential growth. Governments across the globe are setting ambitious targets for phase-outs of new ICE sales—many by 2030 or 2035—accelerating the shift.

Volkswagen’s Bold Prediction: EVs Will Kill Gasoline Cars

The Statement from the CEO

In a recent industry conference, VW Group CEO Oliver Blume made headlines by stating:

“Electric vehicles are about to do to gasoline what the car did to the horse. That is, replace it entirely.”

This statement underscores VW’s conviction that the internal combustion engine is destined for the history books as EVs become more prevalent, affordable, and desirable.

Why Does VW Believe This?

VW’s confidence rests on several factors:

  • Technological Advancements: Battery technology has improved dramatically, leading to longer range, shorter charging times, and lower costs.
  • Regulatory Pressure: Governments worldwide are implementing stricter emissions standards and bans on new ICE sales.
  • Consumer Acceptance: EVs are increasingly seen as practical and desirable, with models offering luxury, performance, and convenience.
  • Model Lineup Expansion: VW has committed heavily to EV development, with models like the ID.3, ID.4, and upcoming ID.7 leading the charge.

The Strategic Shift

VW’s approach is clear: invest heavily in EV platforms, develop charging infrastructure, and phase out internal combustion models. Their “Accelerate” strategy aims for 70% of European sales to be electric by 2030, with a global goal of 50 million EVs sold by 2030.

Major Automakers’ Electric Lineups

Volkswagen: The ID Family

  • ID.3: Compact hatchback that launched VW’s electric push in Europe, with a range of up to 340 miles (548 km) in the latest versions.
  • ID.4: Crossover SUV offering versatility and practicality, with variants like the GTX performance model delivering 295 horsepower.
  • ID.7: A future flagship sedan with a projected range exceeding 380 miles, set to compete with higher-end EV sedans.

Tesla: The Industry Leader

  • Model 3: Continues to dominate with over 400 miles of range and advanced autopilot features.
  • Model S Plaid: High-performance luxury with over 390 miles of range and 1,020 horsepower, capable of 0-60 mph in under 2 seconds.
  • Cybertruck: An upcoming electric pickup with impressive specs—up to 500 miles range, 14,000 pounds towing capacity, and rugged durability.

Traditional Automakers Entering the EV Arena

  • Ford Mustang Mach-E: An SUV blending performance and practicality, with ranges up to 300 miles.
  • GM Chevrolet Silverado EV: An upcoming full-size pickup with 400+ miles of range and advanced tech.
  • Mercedes-Benz EQ Series: Luxury EVs like the EQE and EQS, with ranges exceeding 400 miles and cutting-edge interiors.

Motorsports and Performance EVs

The shift isn’t just on the street. EVs are making significant inroads into motorsport:

  • Formula E: The all-electric racing series has grown in popularity, showcasing technological innovation with cars like the Spark SRT05 and Gen3 vehicles capable of 0-60 in around 2.8 seconds.
  • Porsche Taycan in Racing: The Taycan GT4 Clubsport and upcoming EV classes are pushing performance boundaries, signaling that electric cars can be as thrilling as combustion engines.

Practical Implications for Buyers and Enthusiasts

  • Affordability: Prices are dropping; entry-level models like the VW ID.3 are now accessible to a broader audience.
  • Charging Infrastructure: Rapid expansion of charging networks (e.g., Ionity, Electrify America) reduces range anxiety.
  • Range and Performance: Modern EVs offer competitive ranges and impressive acceleration—Tesla’s Model S Plaid hits 0-60 mph in under 2 seconds, rivaling supercars.
  • Residual Value and Incentives: Governments offer tax credits and incentives, improving EV affordability.

What This Means for Car Enthusiasts and Buyers

Practical Considerations

  • Long-Term Cost Savings: Lower maintenance costs (fewer moving parts), cheaper fuel (electricity vs. gasoline), and potential tax incentives.
  • Charging Habits: Home charging is convenient for daily use; fast chargers enable quick top-ups on longer trips.
  • Resale and Infrastructure: As EVs become mainstream, resale values and charging infrastructure will stabilize, making EV ownership increasingly attractive.

Things to Watch

  • Battery Tech Breakthroughs: Solid-state batteries could boost range and safety further.
  • Charging Speed Improvements: Next-generation chargers (e.g., 350 kW) will significantly cut charging times.
  • Autonomous and Connected Features: Integration of AI, V2X communication, and self-driving tech will redefine driving experiences.
  • Regulatory Changes: Keep an eye on legislation that could accelerate or hinder EV adoption.

The Road Ahead: Navigating a Changing Landscape

The automotive industry is fundamentally transforming. While internal combustion engines will continue to be produced for certain markets and applications for some years, the momentum behind EVs is undeniable.

Volkswagen’s provocative statement encapsulates an industry-wide consensus: electric vehicles are not just the future; they are quickly becoming the present. As the technology matures, prices fall, and infrastructure improves, EVs will dominate new car sales in many regions.

For enthusiasts, this transition offers both challenges and opportunities. Performance EVs are pushing the envelope, and classic cars are being electrified, preserving their legacy in a cleaner, more sustainable form.

Final Takeaways

  • Stay informed: Watch for new model launches from VW, Tesla, GM, and other automakers.
  • Evaluate your needs: Consider range, charging options, and budget when choosing between ICE and EV.
  • Embrace innovation: EVs offer new driving experiences, from instant torque to advanced driver-assist features.
  • Prepare for change: The industry’s trajectory suggests that supporting infrastructure, regulations, and technology will continue to evolve rapidly.

Conclusion

The analogy of cars killing the horse is apt—electric vehicles are poised to replace internal combustion engines much as the automobile replaced horses over a century ago. Volkswagen’s bold prediction underscores the magnitude of this transition. With a host of innovative models, advancing battery tech, and expanding charging networks, EVs are not just the future—they’re becoming the present.

Car enthusiasts and buyers alike should stay engaged, adapt to the changes, and perhaps even embrace the electric revolution that promises to redefine mobility for generations to come.