As technology continues to improve, there are more technologically advanced car options available to consumers. This is where the introduction of electric cars comes into play. Electric cars are vehicles that are powered with a rechargeable battery engine as opposed to a normal gas engine. While electric cars may not be new technology, they are definitely gaining in popularity. If seeing these cars around more has made you think about getting an electric car then you should educate yourself! There are both pros and cons associated with getting this type of car.
What are Some Benefits of an Electric Car?
There are actually many benefits associated with owning an electric car. There may be more than you realize! These factors could influence your decision, especially if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
More Environmentally Conscious
Many consumers switch to owning an electric car when they want to be more environmentally conscious. Cars that are fully electric are better for the environment because they do not utilize an exhaust system. This means that there are no emissions! When a car isn’t creating emissions then this results in less greenhouse gasses and overall cleaner air.
A Renewable Source of Energy
Gasoline for cars is created using oil. This is not a form of renewable energy. Electricity on the other hand is a different story. Vehicles that are powered with electricity use a renewable source that is naturally created like water, wind, or solar. While both are forms of natural power sources, one is more sustainable.
More Affordable
Gas prices are constantly changing and are affected by global influence. On average a consumer can save $60 a month when they switch to an electric car compared to a gas car.
No gasoline engine? Then that means no oil changes! Not only do consumers deal with less maintenance by avoiding an oil change, but with brakes as well. Electric cars are generally easier on a vehicle’s brakes and need fewer replacements! This reduced amount of maintenance can mean a better budget since you could spend less money maintaining your car.
Less Noise
Hate the sound of a noisy car? Well that’s not an issue with an electric vehicle! Electric cars are known for how quietly they run. In fact, they are so quiet that lawmakers are getting concerned! Some politicians have supported the addition of engine noises so that pedestrians can be aware of an oncoming vehicle.
Tax Benefits
A popular reason Americans consider an electric car is for the tax benefits! Original owners of these vehicles can get a credit when tax time comes around due to the fact that they own a car that is more environmentally friendly. Each state has their own tax laws so the amount that the credit will be worth will vary. Not only does the location play a part in the amount the credit will be worth but so does the make and model of the vehicle. However, sometimes people can get as much as $7,500 in credit for specific cars!
Experience Special Lane Accessibility
Highways are a major component of travel within the United States. That is why some have high occupancy vehicle lanes (HOV) that are usually reserved for carpooling. However, those that have an electric car may also be able to use this lane. The law varies by state. For example, in Florida, electric cars can be in these HOV at any point regardless of how many passengers are in the car. A solo driver of an electric vehicle is allowed to use the lane!
What are Some Drawbacks of an Electric Car?
Just as there are some attractive benefits, there are some drawbacks as well. It is important to be aware of both of these aspects when deciding if an electric car would be a good fit for your lifestyle.
Can’t Travel as Long
Electric car technology is rapidly advancing. However, electric cars still typically have a shorter range than a normal gasoline car. Generally, an electric car can drive 193 miles when they have a full charge (think of this like a full tank of gas). On the flipside, gasoline vehicles can typically drive 300 miles or more with an actual full tank of gas. However, factors like the size of the gas tank and driving patterns impact how long the car will last.
Need Dedicated Time to Recharge
Getting gas at a gas station usually takes a few minutes before you’re back on the road again. Electric vehicles are a different story. Models are different but some may take up to 40 hours to fully charge. The better technologically advanced vehicle you buy then typically the less time it takes to fully charge. There are ways to overcome this obstacle like by having a charging station easily accessible or purchasing kits designed to reduce charging time. However, it is still important to beware!
Expect a Price Difference
When comparing electric versus gasoline vehicles, you can expect the fully electric models to be more expensive than their gasoline counterparts. These cars have a high cost upfront but are overall less expensive to maintain.
A Struggle to Find a Charging Station
Gas stations are a dime a dozen. It is very easy to find one even when you are in rural areas. Electric car charging stations are a different story. While there may be charging stations available in some parking lots or on the side of the road, they can still be hard to find. It’s especially difficult taking a road trip with an electric car for this reason. However, as electric cars are becoming more popular, charging station locations are increasing.
Limited Model Variety
Gasoline powered cars have been around in mass production much longer than their electric counterparts. That is why there is a little variety when it comes to the electric models. They have less of a history and overall less of a consumer base. Demand directly affects the supply of a service and/or goods.
What are Hybrid Electric Vehicles?
There are cars that are fully electric. There are also cars that are referred to as hybrid electric vehicles. These hybrids take components of both a traditional gasoline vehicle and an electric vehicle. Hybrids have an internal combustion engine with at least one electric motor if not more. The benefit to these vehicles is the fact that they have the advantages of a high fuel economy while still producing less emissions than a traditional gasoline car.
