FAQ
What are the disadvantages of owning an electric car?
EV ownership is a great way to save on gas and reduce your carbon footprint, but there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:
• “Range Anxiety”: Range anxiety is the fear that the battery will run out of juice before the car reaches its destination. It’s a valid concern. EV drivers must be ever mindful of battery life, and they must plan extended trips carefully to make sure there are charging stations along the way. That said, EV ranges continue to expand, and many models can now travel beyond 300 miles on a single charge.
• Long “Refueling” Times: Many new EVs come with a Level 1 charger that can connect to standard 120-volt outlets (like the ones in your home). While this is convenient, it can take 40-50 hours to fully charge an empty EV using this method. Level 2 chargers can do the job in less than 10 hours, but they are expensive and often require professional installation. You can bypass the installation costs by using public Level 2 stations, but you’ll still pay for the power. Level 3 “fast-charging” stations can refuel EVs in an hour or less, but they can be hard to find depending on your location.
• Higher Sticker Price: EVs tend to cost more than gas-powered vehicles. However, there are ways for EV owners to get that money back. For starters, EV buyers can get a tax credit of up to $7,500. Money saved on gas, along with lower maintenance costs, can also make EVs a better deal in the long run.
How long do electric cars last?
In general, EVs should last just as long as gas-powered models. While EV batteries lose some capacity over time, they still typically last 10 years or longer. Also, federal law dictates that EV batteries must last for a minimum of eight years or 100,000 miles. If the battery fails sooner, the manufacturer must replace it for free.
What is the best electric car brand?
Tesla continues to produce the best-selling EVs on the market. However, competitors are working hard to close the gap, including legacy automakers such as Ford and General Motors.
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