Electric Cars: Green and Growing

Not so long ago, electric vehicles (EV) were part of distant and lofty goal to change the face of transportation. Today, electric vehicles make up about two percent of new cars on the road. Many U.S. states have mandated zero emission vehicles by 2035.

Many auto companies, including General Motors, have also chosen 2035 as the target for a switch to the manufacturing of electric vehicles only. Ready to join the circuit? Here is what you need to know before making the EV leap.

What is an electric vehicle? EVs have a battery in place of the gasoline tank, and an electric motor rather than internal combustion engine. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are a combination of gasoline and electric vehicles with a battery, electric motor, gasoline tank, and internal combustion engine. PHEVs use both gasoline and electricity as fuel sources. The very first hybrid was invented by Ferdinand Porsche in 1899, but the Toyota Prius was the first mass produced hybrid car in 1997.

What is the range of an electric vehicle? The total miles an EV will travel before the battery needs recharging is usually less than the distance you could travel in a traditional gasoline run car. In most cases, however, an EV’s range is enough to serve the needs of an average daily driver. Plan on just over 200 miles of travel on a full battery charge. Advanced EV models can go upwards of 400 miles without stopping. EVs will consume more battery life at steady highway speed than stop and go driving. Temperature extremes also reduce an EV’s range because of air conditioner and heater use.

How do I charge my EV? It is very possible that you can meet your driving needs by plugging in while at home. Most EVs can be charged with a standard 120V outlet. A 240V outlet will charge your EV more quickly, as would a charging system installed into your residence. Many cities and workplaces are starting to offer public charging stations, though these are currently much more common across Europe than the United States. With many factors to consider, it can take anywhere from one hour to a full day to charge an EV.

Are electric cars good for the environment? EVs produce no tailpipe emissions. Even when factoring in carbon emissions from fossil fuel electricity production, EVs produced four time less emissions contributing to climate change than conventional vehicles. You are saving money by dumping the gas pump while also saving the environment. That is a lot of green.

Electric vehicles are available in sizes from small hatchbacks to top-of-the-line SUVs. Overall, prices of EVs are initially higher than the sticker price of traditional vehicles. Over the life of your car, however, you will recoup your investment with savings on maintenance and gasoline. When you are behind the wheel of an electric car, you will enjoy the silent running and instant torque. It handles about the same as a traditional car, but smooth starting and stopping will definitely put a smile on the face of the driver.

If you drive a brand new electric car or a vintage Ford pickup, learning to drive correctly and safely should be a top priority. Missouri Driving School is the best choice to teach a first time St Louis driver or refresh your driving skills. Call the experts at Missouri Driving School today at (314) 849-4590.