The topic of government subsidies for electric vehicles has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent test reports and should governments subsidize electric cars for mass adoption, this theme appears in various forms approximately every 3-4 months, making it a high-frequency topic that test-takers should prepare for.
Government subsidies for electric vehicle production concept illustration
Task Analysis
Let’s examine one of the most common question formats:
Some people believe that governments should provide subsidies to encourage manufacturers to produce more electric vehicles. Others think that car manufacturers should bear these costs themselves. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government subsidies
- Present counterarguments against subsidies
- Provide a balanced opinion
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
Environmental concerns have sparked debate about whether governments should financially support electric vehicle production. While some advocate for state subsidies, others believe manufacturers should independently fund this transition. I believe a balanced approach combining both government support and private investment is most effective.
Those supporting government subsidies argue that should governments subsidize electric vehicles for private use can accelerate the shift towards sustainable transportation. Government funding can reduce production costs, making electric vehicles more affordable for consumers. For instance, Tesla’s success in the United States was partially attributed to substantial government incentives that helped establish their manufacturing capabilities.
However, critics contend that automobile manufacturers should finance their own technological developments. These companies generate significant profits and have the resources to invest in research and development. Moreover, should governments promote electric vehicles through subsidies might create market inefficiencies and unfair competition.
In my view, a collaborative approach would be most beneficial. While manufacturers should invest substantially in electric vehicle development, strategic government support can expedite this crucial environmental transition. For example, governments could offer time-limited subsidies tied to specific production targets or environmental standards, ensuring accountability while promoting innovation.
Electric vehicle manufacturing process with government support
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The question of whether governments should give money to help make electric cars is important today. Some people think governments should help, but others say car companies should pay themselves. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Many people think governments should help because electric cars are good for the environment. When governments give money, companies can make cars cheaper, and more people can buy them. For example, in China, government help has made many new electric car companies successful.
However, other people say car companies are rich and should pay their own costs. These companies make a lot of money from selling normal cars. Also, some people think should governments subsidize electric vehicles? is not fair to other businesses.
I think both sides should work together. Governments can help at the start, but companies should also invest their own money. This way, we can have more electric cars on the roads faster.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Complex sentence structures
- Sophisticated vocabulary
- Clear organization
- Well-developed arguments
- Effective use of examples
- Strong cohesion
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simpler sentence structures
- Basic vocabulary
- Clear but basic organization
- Limited development of ideas
- Simple examples
- Basic cohesion
Key Vocabulary
- Subsidies (n) /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – financial support from government
- Manufacturing capabilities (n) /ˌmænjuˈfæktʃərɪŋ keɪpəˈbɪlətiz/ – ability to produce goods
- Market inefficiencies (n) /ˈmɑːkɪt ɪnɪˈfɪʃənsiz/ – poor use of resources
- Environmental transition (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl trænˈzɪʃən/ – change to eco-friendly methods
- Strategic support (n) /strəˈtiːdʒɪk səˈpɔːt/ – planned assistance
Consider practicing with this similar topic: Should governments subsidize the cost of electric vehicles to encourage their use? Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
