The electric vehicle market has come a long way in the past couple of decades. While electric vehicles still only represent a small fraction of total vehicle sales in the US, several exciting newcomers in the market have sparked new interest in electric cars. Additionally, as the world continues shifting towards the use of more sustainable energy sources, it is expected that the popularity of electric vehicles will only continue to grow.
Shopping for a new vehicle should always be a careful and thorough process in which you consider all the important variables. Electric vehicles involve many of the same considerations as gas-powered ones, but there are a few unique variables that only apply to electrics.
If you’re debating making the switch from gas-powered to electric, here are a few things to consider when shopping around:
How Much Range Does the Vehicle Have?
The range is the distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge. It may be the most important variable to take into account when shopping for an electric vehicle. Motorists will have different range needs depending on the distance of their daily commutes. In modern electric vehicles, ranges can go anywhere from 100 miles to over 300 miles, with many vehicles falling somewhere in between.
Generally, it is best to find a vehicle that at least slightly exceeds your personal range requirements. The range numbers listed by vehicle manufacturers are only estimates of how many miles a charge will last drivers on average. Several different factors can influence the range of a vehicle, such as:
– How often the battery is charged
– Climate control settings
– Traffic and road conditions
– Driving speed and acceleration
– High headwinds that increase resistance and reduce range
– Tire traction (low traction tires give the vehicle less range)
– Cold weather reduces range
While drivers do have control over some of these factors, finding an electric vehicle option with more than enough range should be a priority. This can help prevent “range anxiety,” or the fear of running out of power.
How Will You Charge the Vehicle?
Prospective electric car owners should consider how they will handle charging the vehicle on a regular basis. An electric vehicle can be charged at home, but those interested in doing so should hire an electrician to install a 240-volt line and wall-mounted charger.
The money will be well-spent, as these upgrades help vehicles charge much more quickly. Using a standard house electric current to charge a car battery can take up to an entire day. Conversely, most modern electric car models will charge to 100 percent overnight on a 240-volt line.
While plenty of electric car owners do most of their charging at home, public charging stations are another key consideration when debating whether to buy an electric car. Those in the market for one of these vehicles should do some quick research to find where the nearest chargers are in relation to their home, workplace, and other destinations they regularly visit. Stations that offer DC Fast Charging can bring an electric vehicle’s battery back up to 80 percent within only 30-60 minutes of charging.
The Costs of Ownership
Of course, finding a vehicle that falls within your budget is paramount in any car search. Electric vehicles are a bit pricier on average than their gas-powered counterparts. However, you should look at the financial implications of owning an electric vehicle with a bit of nuance.
Most electric vehicles sold in the United States qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit, which effectively acts as a discount. This benefit cannot be claimed until tax time, but those who lease electric vehicles can take advantage of it right away.
Those who opt to drive electric vehicles can also save money on fuel costs. According to the power company Southern California Edison, the cost of electricity to charge an electric vehicle equates to about $2 a gallon. Furthermore, someone who owns an electric vehicle for 15 years can expect to save over $14,000 compared to what they would have paid for gas.
Investing in a home charging station where you can charge your vehicle overnight is the most cost-effective option. Conversely, charging during peak hours can drastically cut into savings. Additionally, drivers who primarily use public charging stations will be on the lowest end of potential savings among electric vehicle owners.
How Comfortable Is the Electric Vehicle Driving Experience?
It goes without saying that no car search should end without test driving a few different options. Any electric vehicle you purchase should feel good to drive based on your preferences as a driver. Additionally, a test drive gives you the chance to test all of the vehicle’s interior bells and whistles before committing to a purchase.
You’ll also want to ensure that the vehicle has sufficient passenger and cargo space. Drivers should also consider how their needs might change, such as looking for a model with more interior space if they plan on having kids in the near future.
