Time To Switch To Electric?
Electric cars are all the rage right now, and with their popularity growing, it seems like that's the direction of the future we're heading in. But is it a good time to jump on board now? Or should you wait for further advancements to be made before making the big purchase? To help give you an idea of where the world is at right now with electric vehicles, here are 10 of their biggest flaws and 10 things they're already doing better.
1. Limited Driving Range
As far as driving range goes, electric cars are yet to beat their gas-powered competition. It really depends on how affordable and old your model is; the older the EV, the more likely you're stuck around 100-150 miles before needing a recharge. But as the technology continues to evolve, newer models can offer up to approximately 300 miles.
2. Refuel Time
Filling up gas might take just a few minutes, but when it comes to charging an electric vehicle, be prepared to spend a considerable amount of time waiting. Even at a quick-charging station, it might take as long as 30 minutes just to get back to full. And if you're just using a household outlet, it'll take more than a few hours.
3. Charging Availability
Most electric car users can charge up at home, but when going on road trips or traveling long distances, access to public charging stations is crucial. And depending on where you live, this can be very problematic. If you don't live in a big city, owning an electric car becomes much less practical.
4. Initial Costs
Although operating costs for electric cars are lower in the long run, the initial purchase is often significantly higher. It's just the simple fact that electric cars are not cheap, which means you need a lot saved in order to make the investment.
5. Limited Options
Let's face it, though EVs are becoming the new hot vehicle to drive on the road, there are still only a few solid limited options. Though manufacturers are shifting their focus to hybrids and electric, we're not quite at the point where you can browse endlessly for one that fits all your needs.
6. Battery Lifespan
As with all batteries, the ones in electric vehicles will degrade slowly over time, meaning you need to replace them eventually down the line. Trust us when we say these batteries are quite a bit more expensive than your typical AA batteries you're used to; it's certainly a long-term expense you need to know about before committing.
7. Extreme Weather Performance
Because of the lack of selection, many electric cars might suffer from reduced range and performance when it comes to harsh temperatures. If you live somewhere with fierce winters, you might find this too inconvenient to want to commit to.
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8. Charging Electricity Sources
Electric cars are only as environmentally friendly as their power source. If the electricity used to charge your vehicle comes from coal-fired power plants, you’re still creating environmental pollution. Doesn't that defeat the whole purpose?
9. Lack Of Repair Options
Given that electric cars are much newer, there are less mechanics trained to service them compared to your typical gas-powered vehicles. Depending on what car you have, it may be difficult to find repair services or you may have to pay a premium.
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10. Silent Operation Hazards
If you've ever been in an electric car, you'll know just how much more quiet it is than a regular vehicle. While it might be a nice bonus for the driver, for pedestrians and cyclists who can't hear the car, it can make it a hazard. As the driver, you need to be extra careful (not that you shouldn't already be).
1. Environmentally Friendly
Electric cars have no tailpipe emissions, which help make them a great solution for reducing green house gasses. With people nowadays more focused on helping the environment, it makes electric cars a good choice for the cause.
2. Lower Operating Costs
While electric vehicles aren’t cheap, they offer significantly lower operating costs. You’ll save money on fuel costs as well as maintenance due to fewer fluid changes and less moving parts. If you've been complaining about gas prices, just think about the joy of never having to go back.
3. Convenient Charging
Your EV can be charged at home once you properly install a home charging station. This makes recharging quite the convenient task, and if you mostly use your car for short drives, you'll have nothing to worry about.
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4. Silent Operation
The plus side to having a significantly more quiet car than normal is being able to enjoy the silence of your rides. This will make all your late night drives more peaceful, though as mentioned earlier, you do have to stay extra alert on the roads.
5. Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking allows electric cars to convert some of the kinetic energy used to slow down, into energy which can be used to run the car. Just another way electric cars are maximizing energy to the fullest.
6. Direct Driving
Electric vehicles have a direct drive system that allows for faster acceleration compared to gas powered cars. For car junkies, the acceleration speed is an incredible thrill that makes the driving experience so much better.
7. Government Incentives
Need an extra hand on your car purchase? Many governments offer incentives to get you into an electric vehicle. These can be anything from tax credits to rebates to help reduce your overall costs. They definitely help to make purchasing an EV more enticing!
8. Technological Innovations
Most electric vehicles are at the forefront of the latest technology. You can find amazing features like self-driving, auto-parking, regenerative braking, and advanced infotainment systems that are miles ahead of gas-powered cars.
9. Smooth Performance
If you care about your driving experience, maybe you should look into EVs. After all, electric cars offer drivers some of the most relaxed handling out there. Electric engines run pretty seamlessly with the computer system, offering a uniquely smooth experience you won't be disappointed with.
10. Reduced Carbon Footprint
The main reason why we're making the shift to electric? Because EVs can drastically reduce your carbon footprint! With many countries making the slow transition to electric in hopes of slowing down global warming, it definitely makes you want to do your part to help.
