Electric Vehicles 2023: Essential EV Buying Tips

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【Summary】Summary: Before buying an electric vehicle (EV), there are several important things to consider. Firstly, the touch screen interface may take some time to get used to. Secondly, road trips require careful planning as you need to locate charging stations along your route. Additionally, while EVs save on gas expenses, they still use electricity, which comes at a cost. Cold weather can also affect an EV's battery life and tires need to be replaced more frequently.

FutureCar Staff Aug 15, 2023 4:46 PM PT

Electric Vehicles 2023: Essential EV Buying Tips

If you're considering switching from a gas-powered or hybrid car to an electric vehicle (EV), there are some important insights you should know. One aspect to be aware of is the touch screen in EVs, which can be confusing at first. Navigating all the features may require some time to adjust, so it's recommended to familiarize yourself with the vehicle's manual and ask for comprehensive demos before purchasing.

Another consideration is road trips, as they require more careful planning with an EV. While you can charge your car at home, you'll need to find EV stations while on the road. It's advisable to pull up a map of charging stations along your route and note that some stations offer faster charging options.

When it comes to cost, EVs save on gas expenses but use electricity instead. The average price of electricity in the US as of January 2023 was 16.32 cents per kilowatt-hour. Charging at home is usually cheaper, especially overnight when electricity usage is lower. Additionally, some public charging stations may have added fees.

Cold weather can affect the range of an EV. Tests have shown that an EV's range can drop by 25% in cold weather when driving at high speeds. Short trips with frequent stops and heating the EV's cabin can reduce the range by up to 50%. It's important to keep this in mind when planning your journeys.

Tire replacement is more frequent with EVs compared to gas-powered cars. The acceleration of electric vehicles generates strong instantaneous power, causing tires to wear 20% faster. Regular tire replacement is necessary to maintain optimal performance.

The lifespan of EVs is still uncertain. While gas-powered cars can last up to 300,000 miles with regular maintenance, the longevity of EVs is not yet fully understood. Some research suggests that EVs may not last as long as alternative options.

On a positive note, you may qualify for a tax credit if you purchase a new, qualified plug-in EV or fuel cell electric vehicle. The IRS offers a credit of up to $7,500 under IRS 30D. To qualify, the EV must be for personal use, primarily used in the US, and the buyer's income must be below certain thresholds.

These are some important insights to consider before making the switch to an electric vehicle. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and better prepare for the transition.