If you want a more sustainable way to get from A to B, getting an electric vehicle could be the answer.
An electric vehicle (EV) could reduce your costs – as well as your carbon footprint – in the long run, particularly if gas prices in 2022 are anything to go by.
Regular unleaded gas topped $5 a gallon in June 2022, up from an average of $3.036 in 2021.
If the idea of an electric vehicle has sparked your interest, find out all you need to know, here.
An electric vehicle is just as it sounds – a vehicle that runs on electricity.
EVs are becoming more affordable, with a range of makes and models on the market. The 2 most popular types are pure electric vehicles, otherwise known as 100% electric vehicles, and hybrids.
Fully electric vehicles are powered solely by rechargeable batteries. Just like a cell phone, you plug it in and wait for it to charge. When it’s ready, the batteries will power the electric engine, setting your wheels in motion.
Many people charge their vehicle at home through the night, so it’s ready by morning. But you’ll also find public charging points up and down your state.
The average range of an all-electric vehicle is 150-400 miles on a full charge, but it varies by type.
Hybrid vehicles have more than one way to power the engine – typically a battery powered motor and a gasoline or diesel engine. Common types of hybrid vehicles include:
Hybrids can be a good transition into the EV market as they generally consume less fuel and emit less CO2 than gasoline or diesel powered vehicles.
President Biden has set a target of 50% of all vehicles sold in the US being battery electric, plug-in hybrid or fully electric by 2030.
There are a number of advantages to driving an electric vehicle, such as:
Electric and hybrid vehicles can have significant emissions benefits compared to conventional vehicles.
It’s a myth that EVs are actually worse for the environment due to power plant emissions. In fact, EVs typically have a smaller carbon footprint than gasoline cars, even when accounting for electricity used when charging.
All-electric vehicles produce 66% less CO2 or equivalent emissions on average than gas powered cars, while hybrids produce 45% less.
The source of your electricity is important, however. For example, using an EV in a region that depends heavily on coal for power provides less of an environmental benefit.
EVs can be quicker to accelerate and feel lighter to drive as the electric motor is much simpler than a traditional engine.
They’re quieter to drive – so as a safety measure, manufacturers are required to fit them with acoustic sound systems when they’re reversing or functioning under 20mph. This prevents them being too quiet, so pedestrians can still hear them when crossing the road.
With less mechanical components than their gasoline/diesel counterparts, electric vehicles often have lower maintenance and servicing costs.
Fuel and energy costs range depending on your source of electricity and the model of your EV. But motorists can save as much as $14,500 on fuel costs over 15 years by driving an EV instead of a similar one fuelled by gasoline, according to analysis conducted by researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
When purchasing an EV, you may be able to benefit from federal incentives and tax credits. The government-backed Inflation Reduction Act could save you up to $7,500 on a new electric vehicle or up to $4,000 on a used electric vehicle. Check if you qualify for this credit.
Some states offer additional grants for the purchase of EVs or charging stations.
Before getting your first EV, here are some things to keep in mind:
Charging times vary, depending on the type of EV and the type of charging station you have. If you’re driving around, you may see a range of different chargers, such as:
Typically, the type of charge you can have installed in your home. Charges through a 240V outlet. Can charge a battery EV from empty in 4 to 10 hours and a plug-in hybrid from empty in 1-2 hours.
Knowing where to charge your vehicle can be a concern, especially if you have a long journey planned. The range you’ll get from your electric vehicle will depend on how you drive it, as well as the make and model.
Many public places, like highway services, gas stations and some workplaces have charging points installed. There are also apps you can use to help locate charging points. There may be a cost for using some charging points, so factor this into your budget.
The US Department of Transportation and Energy has pledged nearly $5 billion over five years to help states create a network of EV charging stations, particularly along the Interstate Highway System.
Here is a map of charging locations across the US.
Electric cars are seen to be more expensive than gasoline and diesel options. Initial costs can seem high when you consider the price of the vehicle, plus the cost of getting a home-charger installed.
However, with the EV market growing rapidly – and more affordable options being introduced – prices are expected to fall. Initial costs can also be mitigated with federal tax incentives and grants.
There are other ways you can help reduce your environmental impact when travelling, these include:
