The Basics of Purchasing an Electric Vehicle

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity among conventional car drivers, many will be leasing or purchasing one for the first time. As with any first purchase, there are basic questions that need to be answered. What type of EV will best suit your lifestyle? What options are available for charging?

One of the biggest roadblocks for people to overcome when considering a transition from gasoline to all-electric is “range anxiety,” or the belief that the car’s charge won’t be able to get them to where they need to go for an entire day. But according to a 2013 study conducted by Consumer Reports and the Union of Concerned Scientists, 69 percent of U.S. drivers travel less than 60 miles on weekdays – which is well within the range of many EVs available today.

There are two main types of EVs that use electric energy stored in batteries to power a motor: all-electric and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV). Examples of all-electric include the Nissan Leaf and all Tesla models, while PHEVs such as the Chevy Volt work like an all-electric EV for the first 50 miles then switch over to gasoline.

Instead of stopping at a gas station every time you need to fill up, the main fueling station could actually be in your own home and cost less than you’d pay at the pump. EV owners can charge their vehicle’s battery at home by plugging it into a standard 120-volt outlet that requires no extra equipment or installation. On average, a full charge this way takes about eight hours, though it varies by models. Homeowners can also choose to have a Level 2 charger installed professionally in their home and would see the full charging time cut in half. Lake Region Electric Cooperative offers EV owners a special off-peak rate to take advantage of specific times of the day (generally overnight) when rates are lower.

There are approximately 15 EV models available for purchase in Minnesota and, while they vary in price range, consumers should keep in mind the federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Also notable is that generally EVs require less upkeep than their gas-powered counterparts. The battery, motor, and associated electronics require little-to-no regular maintenance, there are fewer fluids to change, and there are fewer moving parts relative to a conventional gas engine.

In addition to the potential benefits to your pocketbook, consider the effects that owning and driving an EV can have on the environment. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and PHEVs produce no tailpipe emissions when in all-electric mode. By signing up for LREC’s Revolt program, you can also ensure that each time your EV is charged up at home, it’s done so with 100 percent renewable energy at no additional cost for the vehicle’s lifetime. For more information on Revolt, visit mnrevolt.com.

With a little knowledge about the buying experience, and overview of home charging options, hopefully those who are considering an EV purchase for the first time will quickly be on their way to zero-emissions driving.