Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing our transportation options, offering more efficiency than fossil fuel cars with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint.
Electric vehicles (EVs) offer instant torque, making them quick and fun to drive. Their regenerative braking capabilities also allow them to easily glide through traffic jams.
Electric vehicle (EV) owners can lower their utility costs by charging at home during off-peak hours when rates are typically reduced; some utilities even offer discounted bills specifically to EV drivers!
Zero Exhaust Emissions
Electric vehicles (EVs) produce no tailpipe pollution, helping to mitigate health problems caused by exposure to particulate matter such as respiratory illnesses and stroke. Furthermore, EVs can help lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change and its adverse impacts.
GHG emissions associated with producing electric vehicle batteries may exceed those associated with conventional cars; however, when taken as an overall lifecycle impact analysis of their use and disposal they often create less pollution than conventional ones.
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology enables electric vehicles (EVs) to be recharged using renewable energy sources, further reducing their environmental impact and supporting greater integration of renewables into local electricity grids. A robust V2G ecosystem requires standards to facilitate communication between EVs and the grid – these standards are being developed by various international organizations.
Longer Battery Life
As battery technology improves, electric vehicle batteries may last even longer than they do now – yet that doesn’t mean EVs won’t need battery replacements; just like computers and smartphones, their ability to perform optimally over time declines with age.
Longevity of electric vehicle batteries is greatly influenced by storage, driving, and charging temperatures. Excessively hot environments shorten EV battery lifespan; to maximize longevity it’s important to park in shaded spots when possible and charge at lower temperatures.
NiMH battery-equipped EVs are more sensitive to extreme temperatures than lithium-ion models, making thermal management systems vital in keeping battery packs at their ideal temperatures and helping prevent premature degradation without needing replacement. Consequently, many modern EVs incorporate thermal management systems designed to keep them within an acceptable range so as to achieve long-term functionality and reach EoL without needing frequent battery replacements.
No Oil Changes or Smog Checks
Electric vehicle engines don’t produce emissions and thus don’t require regular smog checks in states requiring such inspections. Furthermore, their regenerative braking systems slow the vehicle while simultaneously charging its battery – helping reduce maintenance costs even further.
As with traditional gas-powered vehicles, EVs still require routine maintenance such as tire replacement, windshield wiper replacement and cabin air filter maintenance. Drivers should also reduce energy-consuming climate control settings to help conserve battery power and make sure their battery pack doesn’t leak or risk thermal runaway.
Electric motors produce instant torque, leading to faster tire wear than gas-powered cars, necessitating regular tire rotations and alignments in order to extend tread life. Although EVs are highly reliable, regular inspections must still take place in order to keep them operating optimally – learn more about this aspect of driving for work with our Driving for Work Tool Kit.
Incentives
Electric vehicle (EV) buyers may qualify for numerous incentives, including rebates that help offset initial purchase prices. New York state offers a $2,000 rebate, discounted tolls on the NYS Thruway and access to high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes as incentives.
Federal electric vehicle tax credits can be worth as much as $7,500 depending on your income level, but as of January 1, 2024 they no longer qualify under stricter battery sourcing rules and will no longer qualify for full credits.
The government wants to encourage sourcing of critical battery components closer to home — or free-trade partner countries. Beginning in 2023, at least 60% of these minerals must come from within the U.S. with this percentage increasing up to 80% by 2027.
Check CR’s EV Incentive Finder to view current state, city and manufacturer incentives available for electric vehicles (EVs). Many EVs qualify for zero percent financing through car manufacturers like Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 and Kia’s EV9 models; take advantage of these limited offers before they disappear!