What to Consider While Buying Electric Vehicles?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular and affordable, offering many benefits for drivers and the environment. However, buying an EV is not the same as buying a conventional car, and there are some important factors to consider before making the switch. Here are some of the main things to look for when buying an electric car in 2024.

Types of Electric Vehicles

There are different types of electric vehicles available, depending on how they are powered and how much they rely on a battery. The most common types are:

• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs): These are fully electric cars that run only on a battery and need to be plugged in to recharge. They have no tailpipe emissions and usually have a longer range than other types of EVs. Examples of BEVs are Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, and Volkswagen ID.3.             
  

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• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs): These are cars that have both a battery and a combustion engine. They can run on electricity for a limited distance, usually around 30 to 50 miles, and then switch to petrol or diesel for longer trips. They have lower emissions than conventional cars, but still produce some when using the engine. Examples of PHEVs are Toyota Prius Plug-in, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and Ford Kuga PHEV.
  

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• Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs): These are cars that have a battery and an engine, but cannot be plugged in to recharge. They use the engine to generate electricity for the battery, which then powers the electric motor. They have better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than conventional cars, but not as much as PHEVs or BEVs. Examples of HEVs are Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, and Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid.
     

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When choosing the type of EV that suits your needs, you should consider how often and how far you drive, where you can charge your car, and what your budget is.

Driving Range and Charging Options

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One of the main concerns for EV buyers is how far they can drive on a single charge and how easy it is to recharge their car. The driving range of an EV depends on several factors, such as the battery size, the driving style, the weather conditions, and the use of accessories like air conditioning or heating. The average range of a BEV in 2024 is around 200 miles, but some models can go over 300 miles, such as the Tesla Model S or the Hyundai Ioniq 5. PHEVs and HEVs have a shorter electric range, but can rely on their engines for longer trips.

To recharge your EV, you have several options, depending on where you live and where you travel. The most convenient way is to charge your car at home, using a standard plug or a dedicated home charging point. This can take several hours, depending on the power output and the battery level. Another option is to use public charging stations, which are becoming more widespread and offer faster charging speeds. Some of these stations are free, while others require a fee or a subscription. You can find the nearest charging station using apps or websites like Zap-Map or PlugShare. A third option is to use rapid chargers, which are usually located along motorways or major roads and can charge your car to 80% in less than an hour. However, these chargers are more expensive and less available than other types of chargers.

When considering the driving range and charging options of an EV, you should think about your daily commute, your typical journeys, and your access to charging facilities.

Costs and Incentives

Another factor to consider when buying an EV is the cost and the incentives that are available. EVs tend to have a higher upfront cost than conventional cars, but they also have lower running and maintenance costs. For example, electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel, and EVs have fewer moving parts and less wear and tear. According to the Energy Saving Trust, an average EV driver can save around £1,000 per year on fuel and tax compared to a petrol or diesel car¹.

To encourage the adoption of EVs, the UK government offers various incentives for EV buyers, such as:

• A grant of up to £2,500 for new BEVs that cost less than £35,000².
• An exemption from vehicle excise duty (road tax) for zero-emission vehicles³.
• An exemption or a discount from the congestion charge in London for ultra-low emission vehicles⁴.
• A grant of up to £350 for the installation of a home charging point⁵.

Some local authorities and employers may also offer additional benefits, such as free parking, access to bus lanes, or workplace charging.

When considering the costs and incentives of an EV, you should compare the total cost of ownership, including the purchase price, the fuel cost, the tax, the insurance, and the depreciation.

Conclusion

Buying an electric car is a big decision that requires careful research and planning. EVs offer many advantages, such as lower emissions, lower running costs, and better performance, but they also have some challenges, such as limited range, charging availability, and higher upfront cost. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can find the best EV for your needs and lifestyle.