electric car charging station

Now that you are thinking of buying a new car, it is a good time you learn some essential things about an electric vehicle (EV). Who knows? You might think of owning one and ditch the idea of a gas-powered car. The experience of owning an electric car is unique and adventurous. Before you make up your mind about the type of car you want to own next, here are some vital things you may want to know about electric vehicles.

Benefits of buying an electric car

Cost

When you own an electric vehicle, you totally forget about the cost of gas especially if the car is electric only. The only bills to pay concerning the car will be the electricity bills if you are charging your car at home. Besides, electricity is significantly cheaper than gasoline. More so, you can consider solar panel installation in your home. This way, you will save when charging your car at home and other home uses.

Environment friendly

The fact that electricity is easier on the environment is a strong reason for a motorist to owning an electric vehicle. Interestingly, EVs have no emissions and that is why they don’t have an exhaust system. Therefore, if you are environmental conscious, an electric vehicle is the best option. Gas-powered vehicles are the largest contributors of greenhouse-gas buildup to the Mother Nature.

Another important aspect about electric vehicles is that they are normally very quiet. If you reside near a busy road, you are a witness of how the conventional vehicles can make noise. The impressive thing about EVs is that they are practically silent. Meaning, they won’t disturb your peace even if your home or office is near the main road.

Inexpensive maintenance

This is especially the main reason why most people opt to drive an electric vehicle. Since they are electric, at no point will they require an oil change or any form of maintenance related to combustion engines. Plus, the brakes of an EV lasts much longer compared to conventional vehicles. Hence more savings on your side.

Things to consider before buying an electric car

Assuming you are now convinced about owning an electric car, here are important things to consider.

Home charging

When it comes to charging an electric vehicle, you need to make plans to how to charge at home. There are two main options to do so. The first one is charging from a normal 120 V home outlet. The other option would be charging from an existing circuit 240 V meant for heavy appliances such as a drying machine or plan for an upgraded home circuit. It is not recommended to just plug your EV into the same outlet you use for other heavy gadgets. You need some little planning and make sure you consult a professional to do the electrical installation to fit the requirement of charging your big toy.

Public charging stations

As mentioned above, you can be charging your car at home. However, you won’t be home every day. There are times your car will run out of power when you are far away from home. You need to know a few locations of public charging stations to be on the safer side. Fortunately, with the recent popularity of electric vehicles, you can find thousands of public charging stations that you can use to charge your car on the go. In fact, you might even find charging stations near places you frequent such as school, shopping malls, workplace etc. you can also download some apps on your smartphone to help you track a charging station location close to you.

New or used car

Just like any other car, it is important to know if you want to buy a new or used car. The sale of new electric vehicles is on the rise. If this continues and likely it will, there are higher chances that used electric cars will increase in the market. No doubt buying a new electric vehicle is the best. However, you can still go for a used car. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. The only thing you need to do is to be a little bit more careful. Make sure you check some special features such as its battery life, wear & tear, mileage and the licensing paperwork; it has to be up to date.

Examples of electric vehicles to consider

Are you now convinced that it is time to drive an electric vehicle? Well, below are some examples you would want to try.

Hyundai Kona

You cannot go wrong with Hyundai Kona when choosing an electric vehicle. It is efficient and designed for your comfort. It offers a seating arrangement to five giving you no excuse not to take a ride with family and friends. Your safety is also a priority when driving Hyundai Kona.

The car comes with a renounced battery warranty. This is a clear indication that the battery is durable. As for charging, you can charge your Hyundai Kona using the Kona electric’s 64kWh unit from a three-pin domestic socket power supply. This might take longer though. The other preferred option would be using a Hyundai Kona charging cable. It is a type 2 cable and gives you access to the majority of public fast chargers.

Nissan Leaf

Owning a Nissan Leaf is a worthwhile investment. Apart from an affordable cost of ownership, it comes with other benefits. It is an electric vehicle. Hence, you don’t have to worry about the cost of gas. The Nissan Leaf charging system is straight-forward. When charging, you can either do it at home or at the public charging station. Nissan Leaf charging cable allows you to charge from a standard 13 Amp UK plug and this can take about 12 hours. Alternatively, you can consider having a home charge point installed by an expert. If you do so, the charging time will significantly reduce to 7 hours.

Kia Niro

Kia Niro is among the most affordable all-electric crossover utility vehicle in the market. Just like many other car companies, Kia has made sure that its Niro is stylish and comfortable to both the driver and its occupants. In fact, this car can be grouped into the luxury class without a doubt. Since it’s an EV, it also comes with its Kia Niro charging cable. It is fast and super easy to charge. For instance, you can use a 240V Level 2 charger and get a full 240-mile charge in under 10 hours. This ensures your daily needs such as driving to work or around town are met even without charging every day.

 

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