Is It Finally Time to Switch Over to an Electric Vehicle?

Now that manufacturers are releasing electric vehicles in different models and more charging stations are popping up across the country, it’s time to consider if you’re ready to make the transition from a traditional vehicle to an electric one. You already know that electric vehicles are better for the environment, but what other benefits do they offer you?

Keep reading for five facts about electric vehicles that will help you decide if they’re right for you.

A Difference in Energy

The most well-known benefit of electric vehicles is that they eliminate the undesirable effects of traditional vehicles’ fuel consumption. Because electric engines draw their energy from a battery, they don’t produce any of the exhaust gases that a mechanical engine produces. Switching over to an electric vehicle will help limit the output of these harmful emissions and, over time, it can reduce air pollution and dependency on oil as a fuel source.

Further, electric engines are more energy efficient. The energy from a charge is more effectively distributed throughout the vehicle, which equates to faster pickup.

Time-Saving Charges

Another benefit of electric vehicles is that they can be conveniently recharged at your home. You won’t have to stop at a gas station to refill before your morning commute--your car will be ready to go as soon as you are.

Long-Term Cost Efficiency

Surprisingly, electric vehicles can be really cost-efficient in the long run. After the initial purchase, your electric car won’t have to be serviced as often as a traditional car, and maintenance costs are generally lower. Your daily driving costs will be much lower as well. For an electric car with a 200-mile range, it would cost approximately $9 for a full charge.

There are also tax benefits for electric car owners that can make the cost of buying and maintaining your vehicle more manageable. To incentivize consumers to support the switch over to environmentally-friendly electric vehicles, the available tax credits are pretty high and they’re expected to rise.

You may have heard that insuring an electric car is more expensive, but with these other factors helping you save, the increase is negligible. Still, you can compare insurance companies to find a policy that will keep your electric vehicle protected and fit your financial plan.

Smooth, Quiet Driving Experience

Another reported benefit of electric vehicles is that they offer a smooth and silent drive. Unlike loud mechanical engines, an electric engine makes very little noise. Some manufacturers are even starting to add in artificial sounds so that pedestrians and other drivers can hear electric vehicles approach.

For the driver, an electric vehicle offers a unique and luxurious driving experience. The smooth, noiseless ride is a welcome change from clunky traditional cars. Further, the electric motor is mounted lower than traditional motors are. This allows manufacturers to create spacious interiors that aren’t broken up by the car’s mechanisms, providing passengers a lot more space.

More Options

Lastly, the growing number of electric vehicles in all different makes and models might compel you to finally make the transition. For many drivers, the first generation of electric vehicles was less desirable because there weren’t many options, and charging stations were few and far between. Now, that problem is basically resolved!

No matter what type of vehicle you prefer, there are electric options. Compact cars, SUVs, and even pickup trucks are available with electric engines, allowing drivers to have their pick of features and styles and even remain loyal to their favorite manufacturers while making the smart switchover. Everyone is getting on board with the value of electric vehicles--maybe it’s time to follow suit!

If you’ve been on the fence about electric vehicles, these facts should be enough to convince you that it’s time to make the change. If you’re ready to make a shift toward a better environment, a better driving experience, and a better selection of eco-friendly vehicles, check out the options available to you today!

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or the management of EconoTimes