Electric vehicles are here to stay, and more automobile manufacturers are releasing more models. However, when choosing which one to buy, you have to be careful to get what fits your needs. This article is a guide to how to select the best electric vehicle for you.
We will look at the most crucial factor, range, first.
How many miles do I drive regularly?
Most of us have our daily routines, and things like cars have to fit in. For example, if you work at an office, you know how long you have to drive each day to and from work. You also know how long you go for errands like doing the groceries or picking the children from school.
The electric car you choose must be able to at least last your average daily driving distance without needing to stop for a charge for you to enjoy it. Fortunately, electric cars come with different estimated driving ranges as you can pick what you need and not pay for what you don’t need.
For example, the Volkswagen e-Up! sold in Europe gets 99 miles on a full charge, which is ideal for city dwellers. However, for people who might take their cars on longer trips, like inter-state, to visit family, the Volkswagen ID.4 is more appropriate as you can drive longer distances before you have to stop for a recharge.
It is important to note that batteries are the most significant determinant of price, meaning more battery equals higher prices generally.
Family-sized electric car?
Just like your old internal combustion engine car, your new vehicle can serve as the family car just as well. As such, you might need a larger EV if you have a growing family. For example, the Tesla Model 3 seats five comfortably and has ample room for cargo both in the boot and front trunk (frunk).
However, if you are single or have no children, the Fiat 500e or Smart EQ ForTwo could be all you need.
Can I install a home charger?
Home charging is the best way to refuel your electric car. However, some car owners do have the option of off-street parking, making it impossible to install a home charging station. If you are in this situation, it doesn’t stop you from owning an electric car, but you will have to rely on public charging.
In this case, you should select an electric vehicle that can accept rapid charging. This will help to spend less time at public charging stations. The Tesla Model 3, for example, can add up to 200 miles in just 15 minutes of charging on the company’s Supercharger while it will gain more than 40 miles per hour on its destination charger.
What type of vehicle do I want?
Electric vehicles come in great variety, and you can buy a hatchback, SUV, or sedan. There is even a Rivian R1T electric pickup truck on sale.
If performance is your thing, there are electric cars that will satisfy you. For example, you can buy the Tesla Model S Plaid that accelerates from 0 to 60 mph under 2 seconds and can reach 200 mph on the freeway.
Budget
Most of us have to work with a budget. Fortunately, electric cars come at different prices, meaning you will find something you can afford.
On the lower end, the $29,900 Mini Electric brings the benefits of EVs to the iconic Mini. You could also get the Nissan Leaf, which pioneered mass-market EVs, for $31,670.
If you are willing to spend more, you can get the Tesla Model S, which starts at $74,490 but with a more extensive feature set.
For those who are more buoyant financially, the Tesla Model S Plaid starts at over $120,000. If you are willing to go all the way, you can splurge on the Lucid Air Dream Edition with over $160,000.
You might notice electric cars tend to cost more than their ICE counterparts. However, you will save on refueling and maintenance costs later because electricity costs less, and EVs do not break down as often. Some electric cars even qualify for incentives that governments offer to promote electric mobility. These can help you reduce the cost significantly.
Conclusion
Electric vehicles make great everyday cars. With more models being released, you can get a very good one within your budget that will serve your needs.
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