Electric cars are still relatively new. Their technology is yet being refined. Keep that in mind as we discuss the pros and cons of the current crop of electric cars.
Pros
Environment: Electric cars are better for the environment. They don’t have an exhaust system, don’t burn any fuel, and have no emissions.
Renewable energy: Electricity can be generated with renewable resources like solar, wind, and water. Gasoline is made using oil, which is a finite natural resource. Generating electricity with renewable resources also won’t pollute the world like drilling for oil and refining does.
Less maintenance: Electric cars don’t need engine oil. So no more oil changes and no more maintenance than traditional gas engines require. They also have regenerative braking that charges the battery. This system also helps the brake system last significantly longer than conventional cars.
Quieter: EVs are silent. There’s no engine noise at all. This reduces noise pollution, is better for people and the environment.
Tax credits: New EV owners receive credit on their tax returns for owning a vehicle that’s kinder to the environment. You can get up to $7,500 in credit in certain states for some EVs. Look online for details.
Special lanes: EVs are allowed to drive in HOV or carpool lanes even if you’re not carpooling. Imagine how great it would be not to have to wait in traffic.
Cons
Range: For now, EVs have a limited range. Depending on the car and its battery, EVs can travel between 60 and 250 miles on a full charge. Conventional vehicles can travel up to 400 miles on a full tank. But the EV range should improve over time.
Price: EVs today are more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. You’ll be paying at least $10,000 more for an EV than you would for an equivalent conventional car. But you’ll never have to spend on gas.
Limited charging stations: Road trips can be challenging in EVs because charging stations are limited right now. You’ll need to plan your route or rent a conventional car.
Limited options: There are very limited options at the moment if you want to buy an EV. In comparison, there are hundreds of conventional car models.
