I demoed a e-MTB a while back. It was really impressive how the motor sort of multiplied your efforts, seamlessly. This means you can make the rides a workout on the low setting, or relatively effortless on high. You'll deplete the battery faster on high of course, but battery storage keeps improving. I can see it being a great option for commuting. You can even get metal studded tires for the winter.
It's not my preference for trail riding as the weight is a problem to manouever, but for getting around, I think they're brilliant. Like everything bike related, the cost is a major hurdle, but the relatively low running cost will help. That cost isn't in the charging - it's the labour. People do have to realize they require maintenance to protect that investment, especially if used through rain and snow. Bikes are not maintenance-free and last so much longer with frequent clean and lubrication, plus yearly overhauls.
I'm terrible at this, btw. I do my own wrenching, but I'm not always on top of it.
You might also be surprised by how many dog walkers might be out early in the morning.
. For me, it was developing a mild cough less than 24 hours after my wife came down with it that prompted me to test again (I had already tested and was negative the previous day when Mrs. M first tested positive). It escalated from there (fever, headache, worsening cough) and the worst part lasted about three days.