Electric vehicles are becoming more popular as people look for greener and more cost-effective ways to get around. However, owning an EV differs from owning a traditional gas-powered car. Many people have ideas about what it’s like to drive and maintain an electric car, but the reality can be surprising.
In this blog, I’ll explore 15 surprising realities of owning an electric vehicle. These insights come from real EV owners and cover everything from daily use to long-term maintenance.
Charging takes longer than filling up
Plugging in your car isn’t as quick as pumping gas. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to charge an electric vehicle, depending on the charger type and your car’s battery size. This means you’ll need to plan your charging stops more carefully, especially on long trips. However, many owners find it convenient to charge overnight at home, waking up to a full battery every morning.
You’ll become a pro at planning routes
With an electric car, you’ll need to think ahead about where you can charge on longer journeys. This often means mapping out charging stations along your route before you leave. You’ll get good at using apps and websites showing charging station locations and availability. While it requires more planning, many drivers enjoy the challenge and find new, interesting stops along the way.
Cold weather affects battery life
Electric car batteries don’t perform as well in cold weather. You might notice a significant drop in range during winter months, sometimes up to 40% less than usual. This means you’ll need to charge more often in cold climates. Many electric cars have features to help, like battery preconditioning, but it’s still something to remember when planning winter trips or living in colder areas.
Home electricity bills will go up, but overall costs often go down
Charging your car at home will increase your electricity bill. This can be a surprise at first, but it’s usually much cheaper than buying gas. Many electric car owners find that their total transportation costs go down, even with higher electricity bills. Some utility companies offer special rates for electric vehicle charging, which can help save even more money.
Maintenance is generally easier and cheaper
Electric cars have fewer moving parts than gas cars, which means less can go wrong. You won’t need oil changes, and brake pads often last longer due to regenerative braking. This can lead to lower maintenance costs over time. However, if something does go wrong with the battery or electric motor, repairs can be expensive and might require a specialist.
Public charging etiquette is important
As more people drive electric cars, unwritten rules have developed around public charging. It’s considered polite to move your car once it’s fully charged, so others can use the station. Some charging spots have time limits or additional fees for staying too long. Learning and following these etiquette rules helps everyone in the electric vehicle community.
Range anxiety fades with time
Many new electric car owners worry about running out of battery, called “range anxiety.” This feeling usually disappears as you get used to your car’s range and learn where charging stations are. Most people find they can easily cover their daily driving needs on a single charge. With better planning for longer trips, range anxiety becomes less of an issue over time.
Instant torque makes for fun driving
Electric motors provide instant torque, which means quick acceleration from a stop. This can make electric cars surprisingly fun to drive, even if they’re not sports cars. Many drivers enjoy the smooth, quiet ride and responsive acceleration. It’s a different driving experience that often feels more relaxing in city traffic.
You might need to upgrade your home electrical system
To charge your car at home, you might need to install a special charging unit. This could require upgrading your home’s electrical panel or wiring, which can be an unexpected cost. However, this one-time expense can make home charging much faster and more convenient in the long run, so it’s worth considering when budgeting for an electric car.
Software updates can improve your car
Many electric cars receive software updates that can improve performance, add new features, or fix issues. These updates often happen automatically, like on a smartphone. This means your car can actually get better over time, which is very different from traditional cars. It’s exciting to wake up and find your car has new abilities or improved range.
Quiet operation can be surprising
Electric cars are very quiet, especially at low speeds. This can be nice for passengers, but it takes some getting used to as a driver. You might need to be more aware of pedestrians who might not hear you coming. Some electric cars have artificial sound generators to alert people nearby, especially in parking lots or residential areas.
Resale value can be unpredictable
The resale market for electric cars is still developing. Some models hold their value well, while others depreciate quickly. This can be affected by factors like battery health, charging speed, and how quickly new models with better technology are released. It’s worth researching the expected resale value of different models before buying.
Charging station availability varies widely
The number of charging stations can differ a lot depending on where you live or travel. Cities often have many options, while rural areas might have fewer. This can affect how easy it is to own an electric car in different places. It’s important to check the charging network in your area before buying. Some regions are investing heavily in charging infrastructure, so the situation is constantly improving.
Some parking spots are reserved for electric vehicles
Many public places now have parking spots reserved for electric cars, often with charging stations. This can be a nice perk, giving you access to convenient parking. However, it’s important to follow the rules about how long you can park there and whether you need to be actively charging. Misusing these spots can lead to fines or upset other electric car owners.
Tire wear can be different
Electric cars often wear out tires faster than gas cars. This is due to their heavier weight and the instant torque they produce. You might need to rotate your tires more often and replace them sooner than you’re used to. Some tire companies now make special tires for electric vehicles that are designed to last longer and reduce road noise.
17 Religious Texts That Contradict Each Other —And How Believers Reconcile Them
17 Religious Texts That Contradict Each Other —And How Believers Reconcile Them
12 Things I Always Buy At Costco
12 Things I Always Buy At Costco
The Dark Side of Decluttering: 10 Things Marie Kondo Doesn’t Tell You
The Dark Side of Decluttering: 10 Things Marie Kondo Doesn’t Tell You
