Are you making the switch to an electric vehicle? Great, but there's a lot to consider. While EVs offer a lot of amazing benefits, they carry a higher price tag than conventional gas-powered ones. Therefore, it's crucial to ask the right questions and gather enough information before splashing out.
What are the available types of electric vehicles?
Yes, different types of electric vehicles (EVs) are available in the market today. They are:
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV or EV) are also known as all-electric vehicles and run solely on electricity.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) combine an electric motor and a gasoline engine, allowing you to switch to gas when the battery dies.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) use a gas combustion engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency.
Fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV) use hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity.
What should I consider when buying an electric vehicle?
As the popularity of EVs continues to grow, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose the right electric vehicle that fits your lifestyle and meets your needs.
Passenger and cargo space
Can the available storage capacity and trunk space accommodate your lifestyle, whether for daily commuting, family trips, or transporting equipment? Does the back seat have enough space if you have to install child safety seats?
Charging
How much is the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kWh)? Use that to estimate your charging expenses. Do you have to charge your EV at home? Are there public EV charging stations nearby? Does an EV that charges faster cost more? Can you take the EV on long trips?
Maintenance
Compared to regular cars, EVs require less maintenance. However, you will still need to perform some maintenance, such as brake system checks. Also, know the potential costs of battery inspections and replacement of the EV you're interested in.
Purchasing costs and incentives
Should you buy an EV when it's cheaper to lease? If you have to buy, compare prices from different dealerships. Are financial incentives available, such as government rebates, tax credits, or grants? Currently, you can get a tax credit of up to $7,500 for new vehicles and $4,000 for used vehicles.
Battery
If you're buying a used vehicle, you need to know what is left of the battery life. You also want to know the cost of replacing the battery pack.
Can I charge my EV at home?
Yes, you can. Charging your electric vehicle (EV) at home is one of the significant advantages of owning an EV, thanks to its convenience and flexibility. There are two options for charging at home:
Level 1: It uses the 120-volt electrical outlet and usually comes with the car. However, it is slow.
Level 2: Most homeowners install a 240-volt charging station at home for level 2 charging as it charges faster than level 1.
How much will it cost to charge my EV at home?
The cost depends on your local electricity rates and how efficient your electric vehicle is. However, EVS are more energy-efficient than their gasoline counterparts.
Do I need to buy auto insurance for my electric vehicle?
Just like any other vehicle on the road, it is necessary to have insurance coverage for your electric vehicle (EV). If you have purchased an EV, contact us to guide you in selecting a coverage that suits your needs and provides the ultimate protection.