EV Benefits and Considerations

As the environmental crisis continues, an increasing number of car shoppers are jumping on the electric vehicle (EV) bandwagon. EVs are growing in popularity, as they can help drivers reduce their carbon footprints and save money on fuel. However, owning an EV takes some getting used to. If you’re thinking of buying an EV, it’s essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of going electric. Check out this comprehensive guide to EV benefits and considerations to make an informed decision.

Environmental Benefits

Driving an EV can be beneficial to the environment in several ways, including:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Greenhouse gases trap heat and prevent it from escaping into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Over its lifetime, a medium-sized EV releases 60% to 68% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a conventional car.
• Improving air quality: EVs contribute to better air quality by reducing nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, which are harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory problems. According to a Northwestern University study, converting 30% of the gasoline vehicles in Chicago to electric can save over 1,000 lives each year.
• Decreasing reliance on fossil fuels: EVs use much less fossil fuels than gas-powered cars and help slow down the depletion of non-renewable energy sources. They convert 59% to 62% of the electricity from the grid to power for turning the wheels, while traditional vehicles use only 17% to 21% of the energy from gasoline to power the wheels.

Cost Savings

One of the main benefits of owning an EV is that it can considerably reduce your fuel costs. On a yearly basis, charging an EV can cost you about 50% to 60% less than filling up a conventional car at a gas station.

Additionally, EVs come with lower maintenance costs. On average, an EV owner in the United States can save up to $8,000 on maintenance over 15 years compared to someone who drives a comparable gas model.

Another way that buying an EV can save you money is that it may qualify you for a substantial tax credit. Certain new EV models are eligible for a federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500.

Performance and Technology

EVs can deliver maximum torque instantly, resulting in quick acceleration and a fun driving experience. Moreover, they offer a relaxing, pleasant ride thanks to their smooth and quiet operation.

One of the most interesting features of an EV is its regenerative braking system. Besides improving efficiency and reducing brake wear, this system also provides additional stopping power. Similar to gasoline vehicles, EVs are equipped with cutting-edge infotainment and driver-assistance features to keep you entertained and safe behind the wheel. Some examples of high-tech EV models include the Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV9, Volkswagen ID.7, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Charging Infrastructure

EV charging comes in three different levels. Level 1 charging involves plugging your EV into a standard 120-volt household outlet. It’s the slowest charging level, replenishing about 5 miles of range per hour of charging. A Level 2 charger uses a 208- or 204-volt power source and adds about 25 miles of range in one hour. Also known as DC fast charging, Level 3 charging provides 100 to 200 miles of range per 30 minutes of charging.

Currently, there are tens of thousands of public EV charging stations across the country. The number of charging points is expected to increase rapidly in the future to meet growing demand. Furthermore, new technologies are being developed to make EV charging even more convenient, including extremely fast charging and wireless charging.

Considerations and Challenges

Potential EV buyers should be aware of some of the challenges and considerations involved in going electric. First, EVs are generally more expensive than similar traditional vehicles. However, they’ve become more affordable due to advances in EV manufacturing technology. You can also take advantage of federal and state incentives and trade in your current vehicle to reduce the initial purchase cost.

Another common issue with driving an EV is range anxiety, which is the fear of running out of battery and being stranded. To improve your peace of mind while driving, consider planning your routes and identifying public charging stations along the way. Charging stations are becoming more widely available, making recharging an EV easier than ever before.

Many EV buyers are concerned about battery degradation, but you shouldn’t worry about it. On average, an EV battery loses only 2.3% of its maximum capacity per year. With proper care, it can last longer than an internal combustion engine. You can slow down battery degradation by minimizing fast charging and avoiding parking your car in extremely hot or cold conditions.

Popular EV Models at Boucher Dealerships

If you’re thinking of buying a new EV in Wisconsin, we invite you to stop by one of the Boucher dealerships in your area. We have a wide variety of EVs for you to choose from, including these popular EV models:

• Hyundai IONIQ 5: This Hyundai EV is stylish yet practical and provides a long driving range, spacious cabin, and plenty of active safety features.
• Volkswagen ID.4: The Volkswagen ID.4 impresses with its smooth ride, upscale interior, expansive cargo space, and a generous list of driver-assistance features.
• Ford Mustang Mach-E: If you’re seeking an exhilarating driving experience, get behind the wheel of the adrenaline-pumping Mustang Mach-E. This electric SUV can rocket from zero to 60 mph in a blistering 3.3 seconds.
• Ford F-150 Lightning: The F-150 Lightning can handle any job you throw at it with its 10,000-pound tow rating when equipped with the available Max Trailer Tow Package. It also delivers an impressive range of 320 miles.

Book a Test Drive Today

The best way to find out whether you should switch to an EV is to visit one of our Boucher dealerships and test-drive one, allowing you to experience its performance, capabilities, and features firsthand. Contact us today to book a test drive to help you decide if an EV is right for you

Image by Charles | Licensed with CC BY 2.0