Do's and Don'ts: Buying an Electric Vehicle
Shopping for an electric vehicle (EV) can be exciting, but making sure you compare all of the available options to choose the right one for you can be overwhelming. Luckily, these tips make it easy to choose an EV that matches your lifestyle.
Do:
Pay attention to the range
Many EVs offer over 200 miles of range on a single charge, but some provide closer to 400 miles. Before shopping, track how many miles you drive in an average day — from work to grocery shopping — to ensure your EV will be able to handle your daily commute.
Understand warranty and maintenance
New EVs come with full warranties on tech and safety components. Ask the seller what is covered in terms of the battery, brakes and other components that may need to be repaired or replaced during the life of the vehicle.
Have a charging plan
Before signing the paperwork and driving off the lot, make sure you have a charging plan. Does your workplace offer charging? How about local shopping centers? If none of these options are convenient, you may need to install a charging station at home. Fortunately, SWEPCO offers a $250 rebate for the purchase of ENERGY STAR®-certified Level 2 EV charging stations.
Don't:
Ignore incentives and credits
There are a variety of tax credits, incentives and rebates available for the purchase of an EV. The federal government's tax credit may apply to your EV purchase, and certain vehicle manufacturers offer credits. Do a little homework beforehand to see what discounts are available to you.
Spend extra on tech you won't use
From touchscreens to self-driving features, today's high-tech EVs have a ton of new and exciting technology. But these additional conveniences cost extra, so only pay for the features you know you're actually going to use.
Overlook hybrid models
If you're not sure that going fully electric is right for you, consider a plug-in hybrid. Hybrid EVs use both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. These vehicles give you some of the perks of an EV without the range anxiety.
Now that you know what to consider, you can choose the right EV model for you and start enjoying the benefits of EV ownership.