You’ll be well prepared to find the right electric car for your needs and enjoy all the benefits of going electric. While it takes some initial research and adjustment, most EV owners say they would never go back to a gas car once they’ve made the switch.
Your driving needs and range requirements
- Assess your daily commute, typical errands, and frequency of longer trips to determine how much range you need.
- Look for an EV with a range that comfortably covers your daily needs with buffer, ideally 200+ miles. For frequent long trips, 300+ miles is better.
Access to charging at home and on the go
- Determine where you will charge your EV. Charging at home is most convenient and cost-effective, so consider installing a 240V Level 2 charger in your garage or driveway.
- Research the availability of public charging stations along your typical routes and in your area for when you need to charge away from home.
Total cost of ownership and available incentives
- Understand the total costs of buying and owning an EV, not just the sticker price. Factor in the purchase price, charging costs, insurance, maintenance, and resale value.
- Research all available incentives like the federal tax credit (up to $7,500), state rebates, and local utility programs that can significantly lower your costs.
Charging basics and etiquette
- Get familiar with the different levels of charging (1, 2, DC fast), connector types, and how to use public charging stations.
- Learn the etiquette for public charging, like not unplugging others, moving on once charged, and reporting problems.
EV-specific maintenance needs
- EVs have different maintenance needs than gas cars. There are no oil changes, spark plugs, or emissions checks, but tire rotations, brake fluid, and coolant checks are still required.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for things like tire rotations, brake service, and battery checks to keep your EV in top shape.
Battery life and warranty coverage
- EV batteries degrade slowly over time, losing some range and capacity. Understand how to minimize degradation with proper charging habits.
- Know the specifics of your EV’s battery warranty, which typically covers 8-10 years or 100,000 miles against defects or major degradation.
How to maximize range and efficiency
- Learn the factors that impact range like driving speed, acceleration, climate control use, and outside temperature.
- Use features like regenerative braking, eco modes, and battery preconditioning to maximize your range and efficiency.