“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”
Vince Lombardi
I’ve been itching to take on this topic for a while, but it seemed hypocritical to tout the benefits of EVs if I didn’t drive one myself. Welp, my husband and I recently decided to take the leap. So here goes: making the case for electric vehicles.
Upside of EVs
Lower carbon emissions
While there are slightly higher carbon emissions during the production of EVs, the overall impact of an internal combustion engine car (ICE) is significantly higher. So much so that the estimated lifetime emissions of an EV are less than half of a traditional car, and continuously getting better.
Reduce demand for fossil fuels
As we have been reminded again with the war in Ukraine, the global oil market is volatile. EVs reduce the demand for fossil fuels, which moves us closer to energy independence. As renewable energy becomes a higher percentage of our power grid, this trend will continue to accelerate.
Less expensive
Just like with other cars, EVs models and prices are all over the board, but lower-cost options are on the rise. Even if the sticker price is higher, with no gas expense, and lower maintenance costs, they save money vs. comparable ICE cars in the long run.
Tax savings
You may qualify for a tax credit for both purchasing/leasing a car and upgrading your home electrical (if necessary). Your power company many also offer a credit to install an electric charger (ours did).
Less maintenance
No more oil changes and fewer moving parts to break means less money spent on maintenance, and less time at the mechanic.
No exhaust pollution
Less pollution on our roads not only means cleaner air, but also fewer respiratory illnesses.
Less noise
Because there is no engine, the ride is quiet and surprisingly smooth.
Fun to drive
My 18 year old son isn’t impressed by much, but he can’t get enough of driving the car. They accelerate like the start of the Incredible Hulk coaster at Universal.
Avoid FOMO
Watch comedian Kaycee Conlee joke about buying one for FOMO.
Downside of EVs
Mineral mining
The batteries require minerals, especially lithium, and as the market for EVs continues to grow, so does the demand for these minerals. I hear this objection more than any other. It’s a complicated topic, and deserves its own article. More to come.
Higher up-front cost
The purchase price could be higher than a comparable ICE car, although that is quickly changing.
Range anxiety
While the battery range of EVs is improving, with some models you can’t go as far as you could on a full tank of gas. And charging them takes longer than filling a tank. A long road trip would take a bit of advance planning, but it’s definitely doable.
We can’t wait for perfect
Are EVs the perfect solution? Nope. But they’re a move in the right direction. Because there are wait times for some models, it helps to start thinking about it well before you plan to buy. If you’re curious, go for a test drive. You might be surprised by the fun factor.
Let’s do something about climate change. Learn about it. Think about it. Talk about it.