With the UK’s ambitious plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer just a futuristic concept – they are becoming a practical reality for motorists. If you’re considering making the switch to electric, there are several factors to consider. In our latest blog, we will guide you through the key considerations to help you make an informed decision and as the author of this blog, I will summarise at the end the experience of owning an electric car.
1. Understanding Range and Battery Life:
One of the most critical aspects of an EV is its range – how far it can travel on a single charge. Consider your daily commute and driving habits to determine if an EV’s range suits your lifestyle. Also, be aware that battery life will diminish over time, impacting the range. The mileage range is not a true reflection of the miles it will drive, the battery has to control heating and the onboard computer system, so you’ll use more miles than the dash displays as available.
2. Charging Infrastructure:
Before diving into the world of electric cars, assess the charging infrastructure in your area. Ask yourself:
Are there sufficient public charging stations on your regular routes?
Is it feasible to install a home charging point?
Understanding the logistics of keeping your EV charged is essential.
3. Initial Cost vs Long-Term Savings:
EVs can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional cars. However, they often lead to significant savings in the long run due to lower running costs, tax incentives, and reduced maintenance needs. Evaluate the total cost of ownership, including any government grants or incentives available for electric car buyers. As of 2022, the Plug-in Car Grant is no longer available for standard electric cars, but you can still get a grant for wheelchair accessible vehicles, mopeds, motorcycles, vans, and trucks.
4. Vehicle Performance:
Electric cars offer a different driving experience. They are generally quieter and provide instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration. Test drive various models to find one that matches your driving preference.
5. Maintenance Requirements:
Electric cars have fewer moving parts compared to combustion engines, which can mean less frequent and less costly maintenance. We frequently provide MOT’s for EVs.
6. Resale Value and Depreciation:
The EV market is rapidly evolving, which can affect the resale value of electric cars. Research the model’s depreciation rate and consider how advancements in technology might impact its future value.
7. Environmental Impact:
Owning an electric vehicle reduces emissions during use but environmental considerations such as battery production and end of life disposal need consideration. There are ongoing efforts directed towards enhancing recycling methods but we’re a way off them being totally environmentally friendly.
Conclusion:
So, I said I would conclude with my own experience. I have owned a fully electric Vauxhall Corsa for 2.5 years. I’ve 17,000 miles on the clock and have had no issues whatsoever with the car itself. However, every experience I’ve had to charge my car away from home has failed or been utterly painful. Not once have I managed to charge my car without a hitch. These include issues ranging from charge stations not having the right connection for my car (why there isn’t a universal connector for all cars is beyond me), all charging banks occupied or faulty, issues with the app (you need an app for each one – there are multiple charging providers!) or simply incredibly slow to charge 1 mile per minute.
In terms of cost, I know it costs me £3.00 to charge my car at home after I’ve driven 40 miles as it’s a commute I do often and we have a smart meter, so comparable to fuel I would say? That said I do love the car; it’s been faultless, and it is a nippy little thing. Its perfect for city hopping which is largely what I do. Strangely I’ve noticed the battery is similar to a mobile phone, its runs down quite quickly now and the last 50 miles on the range is almost like for like in terms of miles. I’m just glad it’s a lease car and it will go back in 6 month’s time, I dread to think what the resale market is like.
Whether you’re looking for more information on EVs or need assistance with maintenance and MOT’s, our team is here to help! Thanks for reading.