All The Answers To The EV Questions Everyone Wants To Know

Why do EVs Matter?

Although there are some issues to be addressed about EVs in general, there is increasing certainty that electric cars will be the norm in the near future. Change is inevitable. When the first car was made (the Benz Patent-Wagon) many complained that it wasn't as reliable as a team of horses. While they weren't necessarily wrong, the car gained popularity (and practicality) anyways. While we may prefer a gas-powered car now, there have already been some outstanding electric cars, proving the future is not as dark as many paint it to be. 

Are EVs actually better for the environment?

Yes and no. EV batteries are extremely energy-intensive to produce. Even though EVs don't emit greenhouse gases, the electricity their batteries use do. However, their emission "deficit" is eventually reversed once the EV accumulates 30K or so miles on the odometer. So while EVs aren't perfect, they are considerably better than a gas-guzzler on the basis of emissions.

How much range can an EV do?

Apart from a couple underachievers (Nissan Leaf, Mini EV, Polestar 2), the majority of electric vehicles can go from the high 200's to the mid-300 miles. As you would expect, Teslas dominate the top end of the spectrum, with the Model 3, S, and Y all placing in the top 5. The Model 3 LR holds the #1 spot, and can do 345 miles. For comparison, a similarly priced and sized gas-powered BMW 3-Series can go roughly 395 miles.

OK, but aren't EVs expensive?

Depends. You can currently get a decent EV for under $40K, (Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro, Hyundai Ioniq, Chevy Bolt), but prices on the Model 3 are rising, and, to be honest, it is the only one of the 4 that is truly impressive. Having said that, brands are really focusing on electric cars at the moment, and there will be shortage pf options in only 2 or 3 years. Also, there is plenty of really world-class EVs once you get into the $40K+ range. Want a really cool sporty SUV? The Ford Mustang Mach-E is terrific. Want a mind-bogglingly quick sport sedan? The Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S are great options. Moving forward, there will be great electric cars at every price point, but we admittedly aren't there yet.

Do EV Batteries degrade over time?

Yes, but there are several methods to prevent this from happening. One is charging your battery only 80-90%, instead of the full way. Another is avoiding driving your car till it is practically out of juice. GM claims it has discovered a way to combat this from occurring, and says it will implement it's new tech on upcoming vehicles.

Do EVs hold their worth?

Simple answer: Teslas do, others don't, at least most of the time. 

Can I Get Tax Credit On My EV Purchase?

Ranging from $2.5K to $7.5K, the government gives new-EV buyers a one-time break on their purchase, unless your taxes don't exceed the amount your car qualifies for. Also, once an automaker sells 200K EVs, (Currently only GM and Tesla) the tax incentive enters a 1 year phaseout period, and the tax credit becomes on hold until the end of the year. 

Should I Wait To Buy An EV?

Probably. Unless you can afford to splash over $40K, there really isn't a very strong field of "normal" cars out there that are also electric. There are a couple of exceptions, but I would gladly take any of the amazing vehicles coming out of South Korea right now, where Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis are doing some really special things.