Today we’ll examine some of the benefits of owning an electric car, as well as whether you can travel long distances with your EV.
What is an electric car?
An electric car, also known as an electric vehicle or EV, is an automobile propelled by one or more electric motors, using electrical energy that is usually stored in rechargeable batteries.
Electric motors give electric cars instant torque, creating strong and smooth acceleration. They are also around three times as efficient as cars with an internal combustion engine.
Why should you consider owning an EV?
● An electric car is quieter and provides a smoother acceleration experience. Most people note that an EV is much quieter than even a hybrid car, as there are fewer moving parts under the hood. After driving an EV, you’ll find that a car with an internal combustion engine seems loud or clunky.
● Unless you’re planning a longer trip, you won’t be seeing a gas station for some time. All EVs come with a standard charging cable that can plugs into your domestic 13amp power supply at home, just like a vacuum cleaner or a TV. For faster charging, consider an “Electric Vehicle Service Equipment” or EVSE (types of charging).
● Electric cars incur low maintenance costs. The cost of charging the battery depends on the price paid per kWh of electricity. This varies by location, but amounts to a lower price than one would pay for gasoline.
● One of the most oft-touted advantages of driving an electric car is the benefit to the environment. Zero tailpipe emissions means local air stays cleaner. Converting to an electric car may provide a significant reduction in total greenhouse gas and other emissions.
Can you take your EV on a road trip?
One of the most-heard complaints about EVs is that an EV is only good for short trips. This may be untrue, depending on a lot of different factors. Electric cars will always be most efficient traveling at speeds under 55mph, where you can expect to see 80-100 miles of travel out of a single charge. When you take your EV on the highway, that number decreases to 60 miles of travel or less. Traveling via electric car is also slower than traveling with your average gas-powered vehicle, since recharging takes longer than fueling up at a gas station.
The West Coast is home to the Electric Highway, an extensive network of Level 2 charging pedestals and DC fast chargers along popular highways and roadways. However, if you don’t live in the Pacific Northwest or California, you may have a harder time on road trips with your EV.
What alternatives are available for EV owners who want to travel?
Even the most dedicated electric car owners won’t want to travel with an EV every time. Once you reach your destination, traveling via electric car may still be the most efficient means of getting around. At Montway Auto Transport, we’re available year-round to help our customers ship their EV anywhere in the country. We ship hundreds of cars every month, including the most popular EVs such as the Nissan Leaf.