Electric vehicles (EVs) have become an increasingly popular option for consumers. For starters, they’re better for the environment. However, other advantages like government incentives, tax credits, and reduced fuel costs make it an option many find hard to turn down. Although these are excellent advantages, there are things to consider before driving off the car lot. Continue reading to learn more.
Shop Around For Affordable Insurance
When purchasing an electric car, most consumers don’t realize that they’re more expensive to insure. That’s because the cost to repair or replace an electric vehicle is higher than a gas-fueled car. Insurance companies will have to shell out thousands of dollars if you get in an accident. Ultimately, they try to offset those costs by increasing premiums.
That doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable insurance for your EV; you’ll just have to do your homework. Start with the vehicle type. The make and model of your vehicle can make a significant difference in insurance costs. For instance, Teslas are the most expensive to insure, while a Honda CRV-FHEV is among the cheapest.
As with any auto insurance, do some comparison pricing and consider discounts like bundling, good student, safe driver, defensive driving, and low mileage to keep the costs reasonable.
Selecting And Installing An EV Charging Station
People who have EV charging stations in their homes can make sure their car is always ready to go when needed. Of course, you’ll want to select the correct charger for your vehicle. While most EVs come with options to plug straight into an outlet, the charge time is slow. However, level 2 stations (which charge faster and have many features like wi-fi access) may require professional installation.
Shop around for the most affordable and convenient EV charging station that’s compatible with your vehicle’s battery needs. If an installation is necessary, you’ll want to find a service provider that can safely add the unit to your home. It’s essential to include the cost of installation into your budget. You may also notice a spike in your utility bill, which is an ongoing expense you’ll need to cover.
Evaluate Repair Costs
Electric vehicles might be cheaper to maintain over their lifespan, but that doesn’t include repairs and replacements. As EVs are still relatively new to the auto industry, it often costs more to repair them. Not to mention, parts tend to be more expensive to replace. Before deciding which electric car is right for you, research common repairs and their expenses. Include your findings in your budget, so you don’t get caught off guard.
Find A Mechanic
When a fuel-powered vehicle breaks down, owners have multiple options of where they can go for service. The same isn’t true for EV owners. Believe it or not, most mechanics aren’t well-versed in repairing electric cars. It often requires that they get additional training and certification before working on EVs. Therefore, you want to choose your mechanic wisely.
If your vehicle is still under warranty, you could always take it to the manufacturer or dealership service station for adequate repairs. However, those without a warranty may find that these options are expensive. The next option would be to complete an online search to locate EV mechanics near you.
As you begin your search, look for mechanics specializing in repairing your vehicle’s make and model. Don’t be afraid to call and ask about their certifications and years of experience. The last thing you want is to send your car to an inexperienced technician as more problems could arise. You should also compare hourly rates to find the most affordable mechanic in your area. As gas prices soar and climate change wreaks havoc on the planet, electric cars are an efficient option for drivers who want to help the environment save money. With more automakers getting into the EV field, buyers have multiple choices that make it easier to find a suitable car for their lifestyles. To get the most out of your eco-friendly ride, ensure that you’ve considered the above advice.
