With the launch of several long-range electric vehicles on the market, now is an opportune moment to consider an EV. CNET editors have dedicated many hours to researching and reviewing these new cars to help you choose one best suited to your needs.
Evs with official range ratings of 400 miles or greater offer no excuse for range anxiety.
1. Lower operating costs
Though upfront costs of electric vehicles (EVs) may be higher, many owners find they save hundreds each month in fuel costs compared to gas cars. The savings depend on factors like electricity cost in your region, charging habits and maintenance expenses.
Electric vehicles don’t require spark plugs or oil changes, and use regenerative braking to recover energy that would otherwise be lost as heat. Furthermore, these cars typically have lower repair costs than ICE vehicles.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are an eco-friendly choice as they use 31-35% less energy than petrol and diesel cars; coupled with zero tailpipe emissions, EVs help lower national energy demand while simultaneously improving air quality – leading to a more energy-efficient global economy.
2. Zero emissions
EV sales are growing as battery prices decrease and technology improves, and electric cars have proven more energy-efficient than their hybrid counterparts, producing significantly less carbon emissions when powered by hydro, nuclear or wind sources of electricity.
However, when energy used to power an EV comes from fossil fuels it makes it more challenging to claim that they are 100% green or zero emissions. Therefore, supporting cities in developing strong cases for adopting electric vehicles to align internal and external stakeholders, build political will and secure investments. Education of people on how these savings work helps raise awareness. Such policies accelerate transportation electrification while creating millions of well-paying jobs.
3. Zero tailpipe emissions
Most people associate car emissions with tailpipe smog; however, electric vehicles (EVs) produce zero tailpipe emissions when in operation and don’t contribute to harmful pollutants such as NOx and PM2.5 emissions.
Emissions from electric vehicles depend on several factors, including where and how the car is driven and charged; also how the energy for charging is generated. If an EV is driven in Norway (where hydropower provides most of its energy needs), its emissions may be close to zero.
Contrariwise, manufacturing an EV requires considerable materials and results in greenhouse gas emissions; however, new industrial policies are encouraging battery manufacturers and EV makers to expand production domestically while expanding charging networks so as to lessen these impacts.
4. Improved air quality
Cities where electric vehicles (EVs) are commonly used provide better air quality for those living with respiratory conditions.
However, electric vehicles still emit non-exhaust pollutants, including tyre wear and road dust. Further research needs to be conducted into ways of mitigating these emissions such as using more automated driving or installing better tyres.
However, electric vehicles (EVs) significantly reduce emissions from exhaust and other sources, making them a key player in combating air pollution and contributing to environmental justice. When combined with decarbonised electricity grids, it has been estimated that rapid fleet electrification could prevent up to 150,000 premature deaths by 2050 in the US alone.
Many governments are investing heavily in the transition towards zero emission vehicles (EVs). More should be done, however, to make them available and accessible to everyone.
5. Longer driving range
Fears of being Stranded and having to Plan Around Public Charging Stations Can Put Off Potential Electric Car Buyers
Electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers typically include an estimated driving range on the vehicle specifications page; however, this number should not be taken as an accurate reflection of real world driving conditions.
Two key factors affecting an electric vehicle’s driving range include speed and ambient temperature. Traveling at high speeds increases aerodynamic drag and reduces capacity, while slowing down with regenerative braking can recapture energy to extend driving range.
Extreme temperatures can also have an impact on range, as heating and cooling systems require energy to provide cabin comfort. To minimize its effect, taking steps to increase efficiency and properly care for your EV’s battery will help lessen any detrimental consequences.