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15 Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Car

The tide of electric vehicles is changing the automotive world, providing consumers with a cleaner alternative to conventional gas-guzzling machines. As technology and infrastructure improve, along with a nationwide concern for the environment, more and more consumers are adopting electric cars.

However, buying an EV is more than that; it has to be chosen carefully after considering many factors that may impact your driving experience and satisfaction.

In this article, we'll dive deeper into 15 crucial things you should know before buying an electric car so you make the right choice.

Team Digit

Factors to Consider
Electric Car Charging Requirements
Driving an Electric Vehicle vs Driving a Fuel Run Vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions

What to Consider Before Buying an Electric Car?

Finding the electric vehicle that suits your needs can be difficult, and here are some of the things that you need to keep in mind before you decide to buy an electric car:

1. Understanding Range Needs

The range is arguably the most important feature of an EV. This is the distance an EV can cover by a single charge. In most cases, the modern EV ranges from 150 to 400 miles. Check out your driving patterns before settling on an EV as your next vehicle.

You may make long trips regularly and need a model with a higher range. Conversely, if you have a short commute, then a short range would do.

2. Charging Infrastructure

Research the number of public charging locations installed in your area and along your regular routes. Know the types of charging levels: Level 1, which is charging from a standard outlet; Level 2, which is home charging; and DC fast chargers, where the charge can be in the tens of miles in minutes.

3. Home Charging Installation

Have a Level 2 home charger installed. Charging the battery overnight adds a whole new convenience to an EV. Assess the electrical capability of your house and discuss installing a home charging station with your electrical contractor. Having access to off-peak electricity rates can save you time and avoid a great deal of aggravation.

4. Charging Time

Charging time is extremely dependent on what type of charger is being used. Level 1 chargers might take 12-24 hours to replenish the battery completely, while Level 2 chargers have the same in 4-8 hours. DC Fast can replenish up to 80% in a few 30 minutes. However, it also depends on the electric car and model.

5. Incentives and Rebates

Many governments offer incentives for EV purchases that can further reduce your overall costs. Research these incentives early on in the buying process because they'll greatly affect your decision.

6. Total Cost of Ownership

Although the purchase price of an EV is higher than that of a gasoline car, factor in the total cost of ownership. EVs tend to require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, so you will save money over time. Savings are also significant in terms of fuel. Estimate your savings on fuel and maintenance for a better feel about your investment.

7. Battery Life and Warranty

Battery life is crucial for an EV. Most companies provide warranties for 8 years to as many as 100,000 miles on the batteries. Studying the various models and battery technologies will determine that some batteries degrade faster. The longer warranty makes you worry less about your investment.

8. Test Multiple Models

Every EV model offers a different driving experience. Acceleration, handling, and even comfort in the cabin vary significantly. Test drive several models to determine which best suits your taste. Pay attention to the feel of the road, then to visibility and ergonomics.

9. Options in Models

The EV market now offers an extremely wide range of models, from compact cars to larger SUVs and trucks. Identify your needs, whether you want a family car or something more sporty, and look for models that suit these requirements.

10. Software and Technology Features

Many EVs come with high-tech, technologically advanced features. Seek those that offer over-the-air software updates, driver assistance systems, and smartphone integration. Features like navigation optimised for charging stations can dramatically elevate your driving experience and convenience.

11. Environmental Impact

By switching to an EV, you immediately reduce your carbon footprint by orders of magnitude. There's just one caveat: watch out for the source of the electricity that you'll be using.

Investigate how power is generated in your locality; if you can find energy produced primarily from renewable sources, that is so much better because that can multiply the environmental benefits of driving electric cars.

12. Insurance Costs

Insurance for EVs may be different from that of other vehicles. Premiums are based on factors like the car's resale value, cost to repair, and safety ratings. Get quotes from different insurance companies before you buy so you get a competitive rate.

13. Resale Value Considerations

Resale values on an EV can fluctuate as the market matures. Look up historical resale values on the models you are researching. Different brands and models hold their value better than others, which will impact your long-term investment.

14. Understanding Maintenance Needs

EVs generally require less maintenance than their comparable conventional counterparts but don't belong to the maintenance-free category. You will still need to check tyres, brakes, and coolant periodically. Find out how much the model you like will cost in terms of maintenance and factor this in.

15. Community and Support

Joining an EV community will enrich your ownership experience. Driving with fellow EV owners will give you insights, tips, and support in participating in forums and local groups, helping you choose charging stations and get maintenance recommendations.

Charging Requirements: Home Charging vs On-the-Road Charging

When you fill your vehicle with petrol or diesel, you can notice how fast you can fill the fuel tank. However, in electric cars, instead of fuel, you plug your charging port, and based on factors like driving time, battery size, charger, and battery capacity, your vehicle gets charged. This can significantly change your experience with your electric car.

Factors	Home Charging	On-the-Road Charging
Charging Networks	Home charging requires a Level 1 or a Level 2 charger that can provide the car a 25-30 miles/hour range with an overnight charging.	For on-road charging, you need to track charging networks and their location available to charge your vehicle.
Convenience	A charger at home ensures you start your day with a fully charged electric vehicle.	You will need to be mindful of the charge and ensure that the vehicle doesn’t run out of battery before you reach the charging station.
Infrastructure and Accessibility	Having a charging point installed at home can take up a lot of space, but it is a great one-time investment. You can have the luxury of having a fully charged vehicle at the beginning of the day.	Public charging points depend on availability and if your vehicle is compatible with that charging station.
Use Interaction and Experience	Having a charging point at home means that you plug in your vehicle, and then you can check back at it in the morning, thus offering limited and minimal interaction.	You might have to wait for your turn if there is a queue and have any specific app to pay for the charging, which can hamper your driving experience.

Whether you are charging at home or charging your electric vehicle from a public charging station, the charge time varies on multiple factors, including:

Ambient temperature
Battery temperature
Grid usage
Battery health
Battery age
Charge Percentage

Difference Between Driving an Electric Vehicle vs Driving a Fuel Run Vehicle

An electric vehicle is an exciting concept, and with so many benefits, a lot of people choose it over fuel-driven vehicles. Here are some major differences between electric vehicles and vehicles that use gasoline to run:

Features	Electric Vehicle	Fuel-Powered Cars
Powertrain and Performance	EVs run on electric motors powered by batteries. These produce instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration and a great ride.	They are based on ICE, which operates by a cycle of mechanical processes. Acceleration may not be immediate as the engine requires some time to reach certain velocities.
Refuelling Time and Infrastructures	It can take 30 minutes for a fast charger to several hours at home for an EV to get charged.	Refuelling is relatively short and is carried out within minutes at a gas station. Gas stations are readily available, so refuelling is fine, especially on long drives.
Operating Costs and Efficiency	Electric vehicles have a lower operating cost, as electric power is generally cheaper than gasoline. They also require fewer services, primarily fewer moving parts, and no oil changes.	Fuel-run cars need to be serviced more often, such as for oil changes and exhaust system repairs.
Environmental Impact	EVs are potentially large contributors to diminished urban air pollution. However, all-electric vehicles depend on electricity and can help save exhaustible resources like gasoline.	Fossil fuels emit CO2 and other pollutants, contributing to increased air quality issues and climate change. The extraction and distribution has a significant environmental impact.
Driving Experience and Features	Most EVs also have the best technology and features, such as regenerative braking, which captures energy during braking to recharge the battery, high-tech dashboards, and better connectivity options.	Even though present-day ICE cars are technologically superior, they do not necessarily boast all the technologies EVs boast. However, drive experience largely depends on the car model.

Buying an electric car is one of the most important decisions and may have long-term impacts on your lifestyle, finances, and the environment.

As the electric vehicle market expands and changes, staying on top of things will not only amplify your experience but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Once you're moving along this electrification road, do so with confidence!

FAQs about Factors to Consider Before Buying an Electric Car

All

How far does an electric car go?

Generally, most electric vehicles can travel 150 to 400 miles per charge. However, this also depends on the car model and company.

Can I charge my electric car at home?

For Level 2, you can charge at home; in fact, this is one of the fastest ways to charge. The other option is charging with a regular wall socket, like a house outlet. That one takes much longer to charge the vehicle fully.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

This depends on the charger type, as it can take anywhere between 12 and 24 hours. You can check DC Fast Charges, which gives an 80% charge in 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Are electric cars expensive to maintain?

Generally, EVs have lower maintenance costs than gasoline engines, but they should be inspected and serviced like other vehicles.

What factor do you need to be mindful of when buying an Electric Car?

When buying an electric car, one must consider the range, charging infrastructure, battery warranty, maintenance cost, and other factors.

What are some of the advantages that electric cars have over fuel-driven vehicles?

Electric cars do not require fuel so one can save a lot on gasoline as petrol and diesel are quite expensive. Additionally, they are eco-friendly, have lower maintenance, and offer better performance.

Why are electric cars in demand in recent times?

Electric cars are in demand for many reasons, the primary ones being an eco-friendly approach, government incentives, lower operation costs, low maintenance, and additional features not found in fuel-driven cars.

What are some of the primary concerns of an electric car?

The primary concern is the battery, as it has a high carbon footprint both during manufacturing and disposal at the end of its life span.

Is it a smart idea to buy an electric car in India?

Buying an electric car in India is a smart idea if you commute locally and for short distances, such as to college or the office.

If I park my electric vehicle, will it lose charge?

No, if the vehicle is parked, it doesn’t lose any charge. However, if parked for an extended period, it can lose a bit of charge, which usually fires up once you start the vehicle.