Dropping electric vehicle (EV) prices or the desire to go green may have you thinking about an EV. EV sales account for only 2.1% of the U.S. vehicle market, but sales are booming. EVs provide many benefits compared to traditional vehicles, including:

• Lower operating costs: EVs cost significantly less to operate than gasoline-fueled vehicles.

• Energy efficiency: Electric motors use 75 percent of the chemical energy in batteries to turn the wheels, while conventional engines convert only 20 percent of the energy stored in gasoline.

• Environmentally friendly: Electric power-plant-to-wheels emissions are lower than gasoline well-to-wheel emissions; there are no tailpipe emissions from EVs.

• Superior performance: Electric vehicles provide quiet, smooth operation and require less maintenance than gasoline engines.

• There are many considerations to make before purchasing any new vehicle, and EVs have some unique aspects. First, consider your driving

habits. Keep track of your actual daily use so you know the range you need. 

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the average American drives almost 30 miles a day, and for rural areas, that average is just under 36 miles a day. However, a typical range for an electric car today is over 100 miles, and ranges of 150 to 250 miles are becoming more common.

Also, consider what type of EV would work best for you. Depending on your driving habits, if you own a second gasoline-powered car or require any long-distance travel, you may need to consider a hybrid model. Review the different types of electric vehicles to determine your best fit.

While EVs are very efficient, they can still add a significant load on your home’s electrical system. If you’re considering an electric vehicle, please call our office at 800-375-2884 or e-mail [email protected].