Electric vehicles don’t generate tailpipe emissions – one of the leading contributors to pollution in America – while also using significantly less fuel than their fossil-fueled counterparts.
Electric vehicles that run on renewable electricity reduce carbon pollution by 90% compared to gasoline vehicles, and this effect increases over time as electricity becomes cleaner. Furthermore, various incentives help lower their upfront costs.
Zero Emissions
Zero emissions electric vehicles (BEVs and HFCs) produce no tailpipe emissions and only minimal evaporative emissions; additionally they consume significantly less energy than conventional cars resulting in reduced “well-to-wheel” emissions.
However, electricity that powers BEVs and HFCs does produce some CO2. But fortunately it’s not because of how we drive; rather it comes from where this electricity was generated from: in power plants that create it.
Electric vehicles (EVs) use clean, renewable electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind, nuclear and hydro. Thanks to greater energy efficiency and new regenerative brakes featured on many EVs, many require less than 1kW per 100km. Furthermore, their batteries boast exceptionally low failure rates that can be serviced by any certified technician onsite. For more information about electricity in Vermont visit EValuateVT, an interactive dashboard from Vermont DEC and Atlas Public Policy which provides valuable user data.
Zero Noise
Due to their silent propulsion technology, electric vehicles produce less sound pollution than conventional cars; making them a more sustainable transportation option for urban populations and helping cities lower energy costs simultaneously.
Electric vehicles may seem quiet; however, their acceleration or deceleration can still produce noise that needs to be monitored closely in order to alert pedestrians of these movements. Therefore, having systems in place to warn of them early enough is key.
One way of accomplishing this is to add an external sound system that plays when the vehicle accelerates or decelerates – this can help blind people locate approaching vehicles using hearing alone.
The NFB collaborated with a start-up company that designed electric vehicle sound systems and produced a video showcasing one. This system was inspired by GM’s Audible Warning System on the Chevrolet Volt; however, current standards do not permit manufacturers to customize the number of available sounds.
Comfortable Drive
Electric vehicles use technology like regenerative braking to convert kinetic energy to electrical energy, increasing their range. This makes long drives much less tiresome. Plus, having an EV provides a smooth ride without vibrations or noise from its engine!
Dependent upon the model you select, our electric vehicles may offer various comfort features tailored to meet your specific needs. For example, our MG4 offers adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking for an added layer of safety on your commute, heated front seats made from imitation leather and fabric provide added comfort throughout your journey and offer heated storage compartments as standard features.
Plan ahead when driving long distances so as to avoid ending up somewhere with a low battery. There are tools available that will assist in finding and routing to charging stations according to your location and destination; alternatively, consider purchasing a Tesla which features an advanced navigation system to locate and utilize Superchargers along your trip.
Cost Effective
Many drivers can save thousands by choosing an electric vehicle over its lifetime. Although break even may take longer than with gas vehicles, lower recurring costs more than make up for their higher upfront cost tag. Your savings depend on factors like your model choice, regional electricity rates and charging habits as well as any incentives provided by car manufacturers or local governments.
Save on electricity rates by charging at off-peak hours (late night and early morning). Most electric utilities also provide discounted kWh rates for electric vehicles that charge at home.
Researching EV ownership costs requires looking at an MPGe metric, which combines energy consumption and driving range. You should also take note of your local public charging stations – these may range from free to charging per hour or per kilowatt fee depending on charger model and location; additionally many workplaces, apartment complexes, and shopping centers now provide this feature as part of their employee benefits packages or tenant packages.