The idea of owning an electric car has a certain appeal, but many people are reluctant to make the switch from the gasoline-driven models to all-electric vehicles or EVs. They might be less reluctant to take the leap if they knew more about the vehicles, how they work and what is involved in owning one. Here are a few facts you may not have known about EVs.
An EV is not a gasoline-electric hybrid. It runs on electricity, only, and relies on an all-electric motor to propel it. The motor is powered by rechargeable battery packs.
EVs are more energy-efficient than their conventional gasoline counterparts. An EV can convert between 59 and 62% of the electrical energy at the grid and turn it into power at the wheels, whereas gas models convert only 17 to 21% of the energy stored in the gasoline and transfer it to power at the wheels.
An electric car is environmentally friendly because it emits no tailpipe pollutants. It delivers quiet performance, smooth operation and stronger acceleration. Most models require less maintenance than traditional vehicles. Because electricity is a domestic energy source, EVs cut our dependence on fossil fuel energy and imports.
The batteries do present some challenges, for now, including driving range. Most batteries can deliver enough power for 100 to 200 miles without the need to recharge, while gasoline models average about 300 miles before needing to refuel. The batteries can take as long as 4 to 8 hours to recharge. “Quick charges” that take the battery to about 80% only take about 30 minutes. Battery cost is expensive, and they will usually need to be replaced once or twice over the life of the vehicle. Challenges with batteries are being worked on, every day, and are expected to be improved with time and technological developments to make EVs an even better investment than they are today.