Here is a cheat sheet for anyone considering a switch from a fossil fuel vehicle to an electric vehicle (EV).

A fully electric EV uses no gasoline and runs on electricity. In this cheat sheet we break down the many benefits of these vehicles. Additionally, you can find EV resources and offer insights to help make your EV purchase a success.

If you are not already convinced about the many benefits of electric vehicles over gasoline vehicles, here are five of the top reasons to go electric:

The Cost-Savings

Many EV models are less expensive than equivalent gasoline-powered vehicles — and they are definitely less expensive to run and maintain. EVs continue to get cheaper as the cost of 

batteries continue to plummet as technology advances. There are also still incentives for EV purchasing (and leasing) to help with the initial cost. As far as the maintenance, there are only about 20 moving parts vs. 2,000 parts to break down in a gas-powered car. Of course, you’ll save on fuel — electricity costs on average are about $1.50 per gallon equivalent.

For The Environment

Pure and simple, electricity is cleaner than gasoline.

And getting cleaner every year. While it is true that electricity comes from cleaner sources in some states than others, in all 50 states the global warming emissions from an electric vehicle are less than those of a gas car, even when considered across the lifetime of the vehicle. 

And of course, if you are concerned about the environmental impacts of the grid produced electricity, consider solar panels at your home to get your electricity from 100% clean sunshine.

Of note, there is a lot of misinformation about the environmental impact of lithium ion batteries (they are in cell phones, laptops, and other electronic devices as well as in EVs). In short, gasoline vehicles are much worse for the environment than battery electric ones.

For Health

Gasoline is the number one cause of the climate crisis with its carbon emissions (20 pounds of carbon dioxide is emitted per gallon of gasoline burned), but also pollutes the air with its toxic tailpipe fumes.

The more exposure you and your loved ones have to tailpipe emissions, the larger the health risks. Every year, many people die as a result of vehicle air pollution. Vehicle emissions account for 80% of smog-causing air pollution — increasing risks of asthma, heart and lung disease, dementia and cancers — especially in children and for those who live near busy roads or commute long distances.

It’s similar to secondhand smoke. Do we really want our children breathing dangerous exhaust fumes? Switching to an EV helps avoid some of those fumes.

For Safety

EVs must not only pass the same rigorous tests as conventional vehicles, but also EV-specific standards. One advantage of EVs is that they are safer — and not just because you will be breathing in less air pollution. Major independent agencies (NHTSA, EURO NCAP, ANCAP, JAPANNCAP) worldwide have rated EVs as the safest cars to drive.*

For The Convenience

According to the US Department of Energy, more than 80% of EV charging occurs at home. If you have solar and home charging, the daily use of your EV will be much more convenient than with a gas-powered car.

Just think, no more trips to the gas station, no more lines for the cheapest gas. Most people simply plug their vehicle in at night and get the charge they need on a daily basis.

No more oil changes. And fewer parts to malfunction means it will be easier to maintain.

As more EVs enter the market and billions of federal dollars are spent on EV charging infrastructure through the Biden Administration’s infrastructure bill, more high-speed roadside charging will become available. For now, long road trips still take a bit of planning and patience but are entirely possible in an EV.

The number of EVs available in the US is growing every year. You can choose from inexpensive models to luxury sports cars. You’ll want to consider a lot more than the price and range, but these are very important factors. And be sure to look into the way you’ll power your EV. 

* See CleanTechnica-EV-Safety-Advantage-Report.pdf

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