Electric vehicles (EVs) have been gaining popularity worldwide, and for good reason. As technology advances and environmental awareness grows, more people are considering driving an EV instead of a traditional fossil fueled car..
There’s been lots of hype about saving the planet and using renewables, but when I sat down to work out why I wanted an electric vehicle, these were not among my tops reasons. The environment is still important to me, but it actually came in at number 6. My top reasons for wanting an EV might seem a bit selfish, but they’re all about features and economics.
Here are my top five compelling reasons for driving an EV:
#1 Driving Experience
Fun Factor
Driving an EV is fun. You put your foot down and you take off. You take your foot off the pedal and the deceleration really kicks in before you even get you foot across to the brake pedal, meaning you can really wait to get the speed off for a corner. Cornering is a dream with the low centre of gravity.
Instant Torque
Silet Ride
EVs operate quietly. Say goodbye to engine noise and enjoy a serene driving experience. Whether you’re cruising through the city or on the highway, the absence of engine rumble is refreshing.
Sitting at the front at the lights, wanting to get ahead of the traffic? No need to signal your intentions with all that noise. You’ll be out ahead in clear space before anyone realises.
Regenerative Braking
EVs use regenerative braking to recharge the battery while slowing down. This feature not only extends the range but also provides a seamless transition between acceleration and braking.
#2 Saving on Fuel Costs
Electricity vs Petrol or Diesel
On average charging an EV costs significantly less than filling up a fuel tank. Electricity prices are generally more stable and predictable, making budgeting easier.
If you always charge at expensive public chargers, you’ll find the costs are only margnially less, or even similar to fossil fuels, but…
If you charge at home, especially if you can use solar, you can get excellent off-peak rates making fuel costs per kilometer as low as 1/10th compared to fossil fuels. Let’s face it most people do most of their charging at home.
Home Charging or Destination Charging
Charging at home using a standard electrical outlet or a dedicated EV charger is convenient. Watch TV, eat a meal or sleep while your car charges.
Destination Charging is charging at a place where you’re doing something else. For example, overnight charging at a hotel, or charging at the shopping centre while you shop.
No more trips to the petrol station!
#3 Saving on maintenance costs
Driving an EV requires less maintenance compared to their fossil fule counterparts. Here’s why:
Fewer Moving Parts
EVs have fewer moving parts, which means fewer components to wear out or break. No oil changes, no transmission maintenance, just periodic checks on tires, brakes, and the battery.
Brake Longevity
#4 Savings on fuel and maintenance mean better features
Lease Costs
I was able to divert more of my lease costs towards features. Saving $4,000 in diesel costs and anther $1,000 in maintenance each year meant I had another $25,000 over my 5 year lease to go towards the initial outlay. Where I could previously afford a $65,000 car, I could now spend $90,000. If your budget is lower, the benefit is even better. If you can only afford $25,000, now you can pay double and spend $50,000 on your car.
Or you can put some money back in your pocket for other things.
Cost Allocation
Since you’re saving on fuel and maintenance, you can allocate those funds towards extras e.g.advanced infotainment systems, safety enhancements, and luxurious interiors. Or you can put the money towards getting the car detailed once a month to keep it extra clean.
Incentives and Rebates
Many governments offer incentives and rebates for EV buyers. Take advantage of these programs to enhance your vehicle’s features.
#5 Safety Features
EVs prioritize safety, and here’s how they excel:
Lower Centre of Gravity
The battery pack’s weight is distributed evenly across the vehicle’s floor, resulting in a lower center of gravity. This design enhances stability and reduces the risk of rollovers.
Advanced Safety Systems
EVs come equipped with cutting-edge safety features, including collision avoidance, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control.
Regenerative Braking
If you’re getting a little close to the car in front, the regenerative braking will not only slow your down to keep you safe, it will out energy back into the battery. Before you’ve even got your foot across to the brake pedal, you’re already braking.
Despite media reports, it’s not going to catch fire
insurance companies are struggling to assess the risk because not enough EVs have caught fire to give them sufficient data.
Summary
In summary, driving an EV isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s about embracing a smarter, more efficient way to drive. From the thrill of instant torque to the practical benefits of lower costs, EVs offer a compelling package for today’s drivers. Saving the environment came in at sixth place for me, a very happy benefit, but it didn’t actually make my top 5. So, if you’re considering a new car, take a closer look at the world of electric vehicles—you won’t be disappointed! 🚗⚡
