9 Important Factors to Know When Buying an Electric Car

What to Consider When Choosing an Electric Car Model

The rise in popularity of electric cars has led to a surge in new models being introduced by various manufacturers. With multiple benefits, such as reduced operational and maintenance expenses, you might be feeling ready to make a switch towards electric vehicles.

 

Nevertheless, before making a purchase, it is important to take into account important factors in selecting an electric car. This thoughtful consideration will ensure that you make an informed choice for your needs.

 

Important Factors to Know When Buying an Electric Car

Getting an electric car is a bit more complicated than getting a regular car with an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), as there are a lot of factors to consider. Here are the important things to understand before you decide to buy an electric car:

 

1. Driving Range

The driving range is an important consideration for electric vehicle selection. Instead of relying solely on the manufacturer-specified driving range, consider reviews to better understand the actual driving distance the EV can cover.

 

This pragmatic approach is essential for informed considerations in electric vehicle selection, as it provides a more accurate depiction of the car's capabilities on the road.

 

2. Tax Benefits

The government helps lower electric vehicle costs with incentives and tax breaks. Verify the tax benefits to know how much you will save when buying an eco-friendly car. These government efforts make electric cars more affordable and encourage people to choose greener transportation, which is good for the environment.

 

3. Battery

The most expensive part of an electric car is the battery. So, when looking for an electric car, get more details about the battery range and specifications. Find the cost of replacing the battery and how long it will last.

 

It is better to research electric cars with batteries that meet your needs and preferences. The battery pack usually comes with a warranty from the manufacturer that covers the time or driving distance. So, always pay attention to the battery pack's warranty period.

 

4. Charging Options

There are different charging options for EVs, including standard charging, slow charging, and fast charging. You can find most of the fast chargers in public places, which are expensive to install. To install chargers in the home, standard and slow charging is feasible. So, do look for the various charging options before buying an EV.

 

5. Hardware and Software

Electric vehicles come with many software and hardware components. The important part of using it is that it has to be updated frequently. Some manufacturers offer the updates for free, and others charge a little amount, so be aware of the important software and hardware and its updates.

 

6. Maintenance Cost

When choosing an electric vehicle (EV), one important consideration for electric vehicle selection is the maintenance cost. Just like any car, if you don't take care of an EV, its performance can be affected. Electric cars usually need less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, but if they do break down, repairs can be costly.

 

The spare parts for EVs are more costly compared to traditional ICE cars, and finding mechanics skilled in repairing them can be a challenge. So, when considering which electric vehicle to choose, remember that maintenance costs play a significant role in the overall decision-making process. But with an increase in popularity of EV cars over the years, the availability of skilled mechanics will get increased, hence you can witness a significant reduction in maintenance cost.

 

7. Usability

When evaluating an electric car's practical usability, it is essential to align it with your specific needs. Consider the distance you usually cover daily and know your regular driving range. If you are living in a metro city, then it would be the right choice to buy an electric car to commute to nearby places.

 

The convenience of emission-free urban travel makes it an apt choice. However, the practicality of the decision can differ for others based on their unique requirements and driving patterns.

 

8. Electric or Hybrid

Choosing between electric and hybrid cars depends on your environmental concerns and driving needs. Electric cars are an ideal choice for environmentally conscious buyers as they reduce carbon footprint. They offer a fully electric driving experience but may require charging infrastructure.

 

On the other hand, hybrid cars present a greener alternative to traditional ICE vehicles. They combine an electric motor with an ICE engine for improved efficiency. But opting for an electric car not only minimizes direct emissions but is also sustainable in the long run.

 

9. Insuring an Electric Car

The insurance cost of electric cars is higher than that of ICE cars. That doesn't mean that they are less safe and prone to accidents than other cars. The increased insurance premium is mainly because electric cars have higher price tags than regular cars. Also, the cost of repair is much higher for electric cars. This might see a significant dip in coming years as lots of EV infrastructure is building across the country and the price of EV cars is expected to get lower in years to come.

 

Conclusion

Taking into account the above-mentioned factors in selecting an electric car can help you make an informed choice. Choosing the right electric car ensures not only practicality and efficiency but also contributes to more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation.

 

FAQs

1. What factors affect an electric car's range?

The battery capacity, driving technique and road condition, vehicle age, and electric motor size will have an impact on the electric car's range.

 

2. Do electric cars offer improved user-friendliness?

Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) are designed with a lower centre of gravity, leading to improved comfort, handling and responsiveness.

 

3. What will be the cost of insurance for electric cars?

Depending on the value of the electric car and add-ons you select, the cost of electric car insurance will vary.

 

4. How long does it take to charge an electric car? 

You can charge an electric vehicle at home or at any public charging station. And charging time varies according to the size of the battery and the charger you use.

 

5. Will the electric car lose charge when it is parked?

No. An electric car usually does not lose charge when it is parked. The battery will only slightly drain even if the EV is left parked for a longer time period.