Electric vehicles have been around since the 1800s, but since the invention of the combustion engine it is petrol and diesel cars that have dominated. Now that we know the environmental damage that these cars cause, electric has become a more sustainable option. But electric cars do have their downsides – such as a low range and slow charging time. Many drivers are therefore still sceptical of going electric and are patiently waiting until the technology improves to make the switch. But what if now is truly the best time to convert to an EV? Below are a few reasons it could be.
So much choice
Back in 2010, there were only a handful of electric car models to choose from. Nowadays, almost every major car brand has an all-electric or hybrid model. With so much choice of electric vehicles, you are certain to find a model that excites you – there are electric small cars, electric SUVs and electric sports cars. Some of the most popular models of electric car continue to be the Tesla Model 3, the Nissan Leaf and the BMW i3.
Increased incentives
Across the world, there are now so many incentives out there for electric car owners that can make it more affordable. This includes grants towards purchasing an electric car and grants towards installing EV stations. In some countries and US states, EV owners can also get access to free public charging stations, free parking spaces, exclusive use of bus lanes, exemption from congestion charges and in some cases even exemption from road tax/toll charges. These incentives are likely to stick around for several years, but may eventually disappear once more people own an EV, so it’s worth taking advantage of them now.
Better battery life
Today’s electric cars have a much better battery life. Companies like VinFast are constantly trying to boost this battery life and everyday electric cars are now starting to do more impressive distances in a single charge. 211 miles is the average for electric vehicles. Considering that the average driver does 300 miles in a week, this means you may only have to charge your car overnight twice per week. As for going on long journeys, there are now plenty of hotels with EV charger bays and gas stations with supercharger stations – which can fully charge a 200 mile range car in 15 minutes!
Growing used car market
Many drivers are put off buying an electric car because of the high pricing. This is still very much the case with brand new cars – a new Tesla Model 3 in 2024 will typically set you back $40,000. However, EVs have been around long enough that there are now a lot of used electric cars for sale, which are much cheaper. In fact, used Nissan Leafs can often cost less than $10k. That’s equivalent to a used petrol car.
Premium petrol prices
Petrol prices are the highest they’ve ever been and there will likely only be further price hikes in the future as oil production cuts continue and petrol duty tax rates increase. Running an EV is currently much cheaper and therefore a better option for those that want to save money.
