“The future starts today, not tomorrow.”
Pope John Paul II
Hi friends! You may have noticed it’s been a little quiet on my end this summer. After writing a weekly article for three and a half years straight, I needed a breather to recharge (pun intended). But between the heat waves, flooding, storms, and wildfires, this summer’s extreme weather has been a nagging reminder that climate change isn’t taking a vacation. So while I may not be posting quite as often, I’m definitely not going away.
The future starts today
I’ve written before about why electric vehicles help solve climate change, but there have been some recent headlines worth sharing.
If you are in the market for a car, and have ever considered an EV, now may be the time to jump in. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, most people are eligible for a tax credit for buying (new or used) or leasing an EV. But here’s the catch…the credits are going away September 30. So, if it’s been on your mind, maybe this is the nudge you need.
I have been driving mine for over two years and have zero regrets. It’s zippy, quiet, comfortable, and low-maintenance. In fact, other than a flat tire on I-95 (thanks, road debris), my only “service” has been topping off windshield washer fluid. And I don’t miss standing at the pump in the heat or cold.
Battery news
One of the most common concerns I hear is: What about the batteries? Rumors about needing expensive replacements float around, but the data paints a brighter picture. Sustainability researcher Hannah Ritchie recently crunched the numbers and found that most EV batteries still have 80% capacity after 200,000 miles! Hopefully that eases some worries.
Charging news
Another common concern is: What about charging? Personally, I do nearly all my charging at home, but for people who rent or travel a lot, having accessible chargers is key. Here’s the good news: more are on the way. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program is investing $5 billion in expanding our EV charging network around the country. After some review delays, the program is now moving forward, so expect to see more chargers popping up.
What can we do?
Again, if you’re thinking about a new ride, and have been curious about electric, there is no time like the present. You can save money, skip the pump, and help the planet. And if you’re not ready to buy a car now, don’t worry; prices for EVs continue to fall as technology improves, and options keep expanding. So check them out when the time is right. The future starts today.
Let’s do something about climate change. Learn about it. Talk about it. Help solve it.