EVs are the most popular new car choice for people who want to drive cleaner, greener vehicles. With a growing network of charging stations and a lower upfront cost than gasoline-powered vehicles, many EVs are as affordable or even less expensive to own than traditional gas-powered cars. And with state and federal tax credits, the savings are even greater.
But before you decide to make the switch, there are a few factors to consider. Do you live in a dense area that makes it feasible to have a home Level 2 charger installed, or do you have reliable access to public EV charging? And do you prefer to purchase your vehicle outright or finance it? The answer to these questions will determine whether or not an EV is the right choice for you.
Once you make the switch, your EV will provide you with significant financial benefits as well. EVs generally require less maintenance and have fewer moving parts, so they can run for much longer between oil changes. And because EVs use an electric motor to slow down, you’ll spend far less on brake pads and other parts as well.
And since EV cars in my neighborhood tend to be heavier than their gasoline counterparts, they are more stable at highway speeds. Plus, EVs are quieter than traditional cars, which can make for a more comfortable ride for passengers. The added stability and smooth braking can also help families with children in the back to feel more at ease on long drives.
Another advantage is that EVs can be used in HOV lanes, which can be very helpful during rush hour. And parking garages often offer EV owners preferential spots. And, if you qualify for the federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500, your upfront costs may be substantially lower than a comparable ICE vehicle.
Of course, some people may have concerns about the environment and the impact of EVs on global climate change. But, research has shown that EVs are much cleaner than their internal combustion engines cousins. And if you choose to charge your car at home using energy from renewable sources, it will be even cleaner than a traditional gas-powered vehicle.
