What do I Need to Know About Owning an EV?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing the concept of cars. Their market share has increased from 3.2% in 2021 to 5.9% of total U.S. car sales in 2022. This trend is accelerating as nearly 100 models hit U.S. roads, with major car makers ramping up production. A primary benefit of EVs is they don’t release any direct emissions, which helps reduce air pollution.

If you’re considering going electric, check out these answers to frequently asked questions about battery-powered vehicles. Our experts at Boucher Auto Group tackle key facts to help you decide if one is right for you.

What Maintenance Do EVs Need?

EVs transform the way we think about car upkeep. While cars with gasoline engines have more than 2,000 moving parts, battery-powered vehicles simplify this to just 20. This substantial change means no more oil changes, spark plug swaps, or fuel system cleanouts. EV owners can expect them to last longer and cost less to keep running.

Despite their simplified design, EVs still require attention. Some need their cooling systems checked twice a year. You might need to change the brake fluid every three years. If you drive where roads get salted, it’s prudent to oil up the brake calipers once a year or every 12,500 miles. EVs weigh more, so you might have to replace tires more often. Even with these tasks, owners usually spend $949 annually on upkeep, while gas car owners spend up to $1,279. Over time, going electric can save you money.

What Types of EV Chargers Are There?

EV power replenishment comes in three main varieties. At home, a regular 120V outlet provides Level 1 charging. It’s slow but works well for overnight power-ups. Level 2 charging uses 240V outlets, similar to what your dryer uses. You can use these at home and in public spots. DC Fast Charging stations are the optimal pick for rapid boosts on the go.

You’ll probably do around 80% of your charging at home because you can benefit from cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. There’s good news if you need to charge while on the road. As of the end of 2023, the U.S. has over 183,000 public charging ports. This number keeps increasing as the market grows, which will help you on future trips.

How Can I Extend My EV Range?

Increasing the mileage of your eco-friendly car is easier than you might think. By practicing strategic driving and using climate control wisely, you can add many miles to your trip. Gentle acceleration and braking can increase your range by up to 25%, and using the Eco driving mode might provide an additional 5% to 15% boost. Maintaining optimal tire pressure and removing extra weight from your car also helps extend range.

When planning a long drive, be sure to map out charging spots. While many modern battery-powered automobiles can go 200 to 300 miles on one charge, the weather has a direct impact on your driving distance. Your battery operates most efficiently at around 70 F (21 C). Cold weather can significantly reduce your range, sometimes cutting it in half, while hot weather, although less severe, still affects the vehicle’s travel distance. Try these techniques to keep your range up when the weather isn’t ideal:

• Use seat and steering wheel warmers instead of heating the whole car.
• Set your car’s temperature while it’s still plugged in.
• Park in the shade or under cover to keep your battery at a steady temperature.
• Use pre-cooling in hot weather to reduce the work your air conditioning must do.

What Is the Cost of EV Ownership?

The overall expense of owning EVs versus gas-powered cars involves several key factors. They often come with a higher price tag — $10,000 to $15,000 more than similar gas vehicles. But don’t let that higher price deter you. The savings over time can be substantial.

When it comes to operational expenses, EVs offer significant savings. You’ll pay about a third to a quarter of what you’d spend on gas to drive the same distance. This means most owners save $800 to $1,000 annually on fuel and upkeep. The cost to replace batteries, once a significant concern, has decreased considerably in recent years, making used EVs even more valuable in the long run.

Various government incentives can ease the initial financial burden of EV ownership. Government assistance can significantly reduce your initial expenses, with the federal tax credit offering up to $7,500 for new zero-emission vehicle purchases. Many states add extra incentives.

You can take advantage of off-peak charging rates offered by certain utility providers, cutting your costs even more. As the technology improves and production increases, EV resale values are approaching parity with gas cars. This trend makes the total cost of owning an EV more affordable.

Are EV Owners Satisfied With Their Cars?

According to the American Consumer Satisfaction Index, hybrid and battery-powered car owners report higher satisfaction than those driving conventional vehicles. Toyota, an early adopter of hybrid technology, achieved a high score of 84% for overall satisfaction, while Tesla and Lexus tied for first place in the luxury segment with 83%.

Despite growing popularity, EV ownership has its challenges. A J.D. Power study found that EV drivers had more problems (266 for every 100 vehicles) than those with conventional automobiles (180 for every 100 vehicles). The most significant issues were warning lights, entertainment systems, and new high-tech features. But here’s the remarkable part: 82% of EV owners said they would definitely buy another one. This high repurchase intention demonstrates the strong appeal of EVs despite the reported issues.

Let Boucher Auto Group Guide You Through All Aspects of EV Ownership

Our Boucher Auto Group dealerships are committed to demystifying the world of EVs for our customers across Wisconsin. Our knowledgeable team can help you better understand our available EV offerings while addressing your questions and alleviating any concerns you might have. We can take you for a test drive to see why EV owners are enthusiastic.

Our specially trained sales and service teams can assist you in selecting the ideal vehicle for your needs and educate you on charging procedures and maintenance requirements to help you get the most out of your investment. Contact us and discover what all the excitement is about.

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