The automobile industry is shifting its focus to the future. As climate change, pollution, and sustainability continue to gain widespread attention, many are realizing that electric cars are a viable way to reduce global emissions. As a result, there are more electric cars to choose from than ever before. Pioneers like Tesla continue to pave the way, but the traditional automotive giants, such as Toyota and Volkswagen, are selling electric vehicles and pledging to convert more and more of their production in the future. If you are on the fence about purchasing an EV, consider all the benefits you can gain by going electric.
Avoid gas stations
With a traditional vehicle, you can’t avoid regular trips to the gas station. Electric cars, however, are fueled by a battery that is charged with electricity. While some owners use charge stations, especially on long trips, most are charging right in their own garages. There are great options for charging at home, including a smart plug for electric cars that only turns on while the vehicle is actively charging.
Reduce the need for maintenance
Electric cars have very few maintenance requirements. For example, because EVs don’t have a traditional engine, there is no need to add transmission fluid or change your oil regularly. Further, electric cars have fewer moving parts and, as a result, have fewer chances that something can go wrong. You can spend more time behind the wheel and less time at the shop by driving a vehicle that rarely needs to be serviced.
Save money on operational costs
An electric vehicle costs much less to operate and maintain than its gas-powered counterpart. While the total cost savings depends on gas prices and electricity rates in your local area, studies have shown that, on average, EVs cost less than half as much to run as ICE cars. There are additional savings when you factor in the lower maintenance requirements. Unlike gas-powered cars, electric vehicles never incur engine maintenance costs, such as oil changes, coolant, transmission fluid, or belt replacements.
Reduce pollution
Emissions from traditional internal combustion vehicles contain carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that cause a host of issues. They damage the ozone and add to global warming and climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere. Additionally, greenhouse gases decrease the quality of the air we breathe. This impact on air quality can create many health issues, including respiratory problems, heart disease, lung cancer, and long-term damage to the brain, liver, and other organs.
Conversely, since electric vehicles rely on a battery that is charged with electricity, driving produces zero emissions. Thus, EVs don’t damage the air quality and don’t add to the planet’s climate crises.
Save money with tax credits and incentives
Depending on your state of residence, you may be able to receive a significant tax credit when you purchase an electric car. The government tax credits aim to incentivize the move away from fossil fuels to renewable forms of energy.
Additionally, a growing number of utility companies are offering incentives as well. Some are offering special off-peak rates to encourage charging at low-demand times, while others are providing rebates or credits to promote home charging.
Enjoy the quiet
If you take an electric car for a test drive, one of the first things you’ll notice is the quiet. Because there is no revving engine to propel you while driving, the car makes no noise when accelerating, driving, or braking. Instead, you can relax and enjoy the soft hum of the wheels on the pavement.
Enjoy the acceleration
Electric vehicles have instant torque. This means that when you step on the accelerator, the car instantly responds. While more conservative drivers can control the acceleration by using less pressure on the accelerator, the more adventurous crowd will thoroughly enjoy the exhilarating surges that EVs can provide.
Feel safer
Compared to gas-powered cars, electric vehicles generally receive much higher safety ratings. For example, Tesla models across the board have received perfect crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The reasons include:
- The EV’s lithium-ion battery has a much lower explosion risk than the highly flammable gasoline in an ICE car.
- The low center of gravity created by the heavy battery under the car reduces the likelihood of a rollover.
- With no ICE engine in front of the car, the battery and frame of the electric vehicle can better absorb energy and reduce cabin impact.
It’s easy to see why electric cars are quickly gaining in popularity. EVs offer a wide range of advantages from easy maintenance to lower fuel costs to increased safety. More importantly, however, going electric is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a great feeling to know that you are doing your part by decreasing harmful emissions, and in turn, making the world a better place.