NREL,-owned electric vehicles (EVs) below solar canopy at the Vehicle Testing & integration Facility (VTIF), where vehicles are charged with photovoltaic (PV) - generated electricity and can provide backup energy to the grid when PV generation is low. Original public domain image from Flickr
Given the changing dynamics of the automotive sector, which favors sustainable alternatives, electric vehicles (EVs) have become the order of the day. As technology catches up, and more people are alarmed by the crises, caused by vehicles and internal combustion engine machinery, one finds themselves striving and considering switching to electric. But does it pay off to own an EV vehicle? Let’s break down the advantages of using an electric car in detail.
Environmental Benefits
An electric car appeals to many because of its environmental sensibilities. EVs emit no tailpipe emissions therefore significantly helping in reducing the levels of air pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases. By owning and driving an electric vehicle, clean air is encouraged, and carbon as well as other harmful emissions are dramatically reduced, all of which are important components of climate change efforts.
Savings
There is a possibility that the starting price of an electric vehicle may be higher than that of a conventional petrol car but the savings over the years almost cover the initial costs. This explains ways through which EV owning individuals are able to cut costs:
- Reduced Fuel Prices: The price of charging an EV does not usually exceed the cost of filling an internal combustion engine with petrol for instance especially where the price of electricity is still standard. That allows many owners to reduce their fuel expenses by several hundred dollars a year.
- Cost Of Maintenance Brought Down: The design of electric cars consists of fewer mobile parts compared with vehicle engines that are internal combustion. This reduces the relative cost of maintaining the carriage. No more oil changes, no more fuel filters, alas no more spark plugs to replace, which means less trips to the garage for repairs.
Tax Credits and Reimbursement
Several governments may also provide tax credits, rebates and other incentives to the acquisition of electric vehicles. These financial aids can help lessen the net cost of an electric vehicle making it more appealing to the consumer. Location is very important on these incentives thus it is advisable to understand your jurisdiction.
Performance and Driving Experience
Electric vehicles offer a driving experience that most drivers appreciate. Thanks to instant torque, EVs gain speed very quickly and smoothly which makes the ride very thrilling. Furthermore, due to the low positioning of many electric models, the center of gravity improves handling and stability making driving enjoyable.
Convenience of Home Charging
One of the major advantages of electric vehicle ownership is charging the car at home. Provided you have a Level 2 home charger, once you arrive home, you should be able to insert your vehicle and come back the next day to find it ready. It therefore reduces the number of times one goes to look for the nearest gas station which saves time and effort.
Quiet Operation
Compared to gas-powered automobiles, electric vehicles are quiet in operation. This enhances the overall experience of driving because there will be no bothersome sounds from outside the vehicle, thereby reducing noise pollution in cities. Most of the people who own EV’s enjoy how peaceful it is to drive around without any noise of an engine revving.
Access to Carpool Lanes and Other Benefits
In some areas, owners of electric vehicles are provided with additional benefits such as the carpool lane even in instances where there are no passengers. For instance, this can help in cutting down the time spent in traffic for those drivers with EVs thus making it a worthwhile option for people who spend a lot of time in the car.
