Finding the right electric vehicle can be a hard decision to make, and having the right information before you head out into the world of EV purchasing can sometimes be an arduous task.
That’s why we had a chat with the team at Carparison to help you on your way to becoming EV savvy and ready to make the right choice when it comes to going electric.
- What are your top tips for customers looking for an EV?
Give an accurate account of your driving requirements
It’s important to truly understand how far and how frequently you drive each day and throughout an entire week. Factor in the odd trips to the shops and your daily commute to estimate your range requirements. Getting clarity about how far you’re driving each day will help you in your search to buy or lease your first EV. Underestimate your required range and you’ll spend more time charging than driving.
Do your research
The old saying rings true, fail to prepare, prepare to fail. A little bit of research will go a long way, especially if this will be your first electric car. There’s a wealth of helpful apps on the market to help with public charging and car reviews can open your eyes to the latest models. Embracing this element of EV ownership will reduce any range anxiety you might have. It’s important to take in mind that some of the older models used charging technologies that have not been adopted as the sector norm, and in the future it will be harder to charge these vehicles.
- What is the most common misconception around electric vehicles?
There are many, but perhaps the most important misconception to tackle is the idea that you must have the ability to charge at home to own an EV. You don’t!
Of course, this is often more convenient, but it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker.
On-street charging is growing and developing constantly and many businesses will offer free or discounted workplace charging for staff.
Did you know in the centre of Exeter, only around 20% of residents have access to on-street parking? This number grows as you get away from the city to around 50%. It’s likely to be even higher for those travelling into Exeter from outside the city.
- What are the pro and cons of owning an EV?
Pros:
Reduced running costs: Charging costs are typically cheaper than fuel prices and with fewer moving parts, servicing can also be cheaper.
Tax benefits: You can make substantial savings thanks to the many tax benefits on offer for both personal and business customers.
Zero-emission driving: Drive away with the confidence that you’re doing your bit for the planet. Whether you’re a business striving to meet sustainability goals or just trying to live that little bit more efficiently in your everyday life, an EV is a fantastic step towards that.
Cons
Increased outright purchase costs: To buy outright, electric cars may be more expensive to purchase than their combustion engine alternatives due to the increased costs involved with production and batteries. Leasing can make electric cars more affordable with competitive monthly rentals.
A new way of driving: Driving an EV regularly does require a mindset shift if you’re moving on from a combustion engine vehicle. Charging doesn’t have to be inconvenient, but it will initially require more planning than simply pulling into a fuel station. You may also find yourself adapting the way you drive to be more economical.
Mixed charging times: When you fill up with fuel, you know exactly how long it will take and how much fuel you’re getting for that time at the pump. Depending on where and how you charge, your charge times can vary. Charging at home will be slower with a lower-powered charger, while service stations can offer rapid and ultra-rapid chargers, or you could be somewhere in between. You can use charging apps to find the best chargers available to you at any given time, but this will be subject to availability.
- How do you feel sales of EVs compare to hybrid/automatic/manual vehicles?
Petrol remains the most popular choice for motorists, but battery-powered electric vehicles are establishing themselves as the next best alternative. In June 2023, the Tesla Model Y was the UK’s best-selling car and continues to rise as one of the top five most popular vehicles year to date.
For more information about on street charging and the growing network of chargers being deployed across Exeter and East Devon, visit www.rapidchargingdevon.co.uk/
