Advantages and Disadvantages Of Driving An Electric Vehicle
It’s inevitable. The complete restructuring of the automotive industry is bowing down to electric-powered vehicles…but only if consumers can help it. Though the popularity of electric vehicles is becoming more popular, there is still plenty of hesitancy to this dramatic change, and oftentimes for a good reason. Let’s navigate some pros and cons of opting for an electric car.
Different Types of EVs
First off, it’s important to know that when it comes to an EV, not one size fits all. Three main types of electrics exist: Hybrid, Hydrogen Fuel Cell, and Battery Electric.
Indeed, a hybrid car uses an electric motor (often two), but it also partners up with a combustion engine. Hybrids can’t be plugged into a traditional charging station, rather it gets its juice from a process called regenerative braking. This means that when a driver steps on a brake pedal, the discs and pads create friction as they meet, ultimately dispelling the friction (kinetic energy) into power. In other words, when a driver steps on his or her brake pedal either at a stop light or when they release the accelerator pedal and the car is simply cruising, these two conditions act as a generator and recharges the electric motor(s).
The second and least popular option (due to limited infrastructure) is the hydrogen fuel cell car. This setup uses compressed hydrogen gas that loads into a built-in fuel stack that doesn’t burn gas but rather metamorphoses the fuel’s chemical energy into an electrical one.
The third and likely most favorable option is battery-electric vehicles. These BEVs involve an external charging port that lets owners power their car’s in-built battery pack, usually with a plug-in charger.
Partial Electrification
PRO
Hybrids won’t require one to change their lifestyle
A hybrid won’t necessitate one changing their typical driving habits or lifestyle. Since these types of cars aren’t solely dependent on electricity, as they contain both gasoline and electric motors. When one finally needs a bit more juice in their engine, it will be at their regular gas station.
CON
It still has a similar maintenance schedule as a regular gas-powered vehicle
Since using a combustion engine is still necessary, hybrids will still need nearly the same amount of maintenance as regular gas-powered vehicles. Alternatively, because of regenerative braking from the electric motor, the brakes will often last longer and demand less service than those on strictly gas-powered cars.
Hydrogen Fuel-Cell EVs
PRO
Efficient technology
The California-based Toyota Mirai carries a range of 402 miles and refuels almost as quickly as a gas-powered vehicle. It has a smooth refinement that’s even better than an EV and less elaborate than a plug-in car.
CON
Very hard to find a fuel station
Despite this, the infrastructure for this type of electrical charging is relatively new, and in turn, so is the hydrogen infrastructure. At the moment, fuel-cell cars only seem plausible in limited implementations or even for fleet use.
Battery-Electric Vehicles
PRO
Least amount of maintenance
Considering that electric motors have fewer moving parts than gas-powered engines, EVs necessitate less maintenance. What’s more, since these vehicles also involve some form of regenerative braking, mechanical brakes are used less frequently. Therefore, components on electric cars typically break down at a much slower rate than regular gasoline vehicles.
CON
Charging woes
While this seems to be the most popular type of EV, the North American charging infrastructure still needs work. It can be challenging to find an available and functioning charging station. On the other hand, charging an EV at home is not only easier, but it’s also cost-effective. More particularly, when linked to a 240-volt Level 2 charger, this makes certain that your vehicle gets a competent charge overnight. Contingent to the specific EV, the range added overnight should be suitable enough for your daily commute.
Driver’s Auto Mart
At Driver’s Auto Mart, we have a diverse assortment of hybrids or full-on EVs. Whether the electric route is for you or you still like cruising in that gas guzzler, the choice is yours. Either way, we have plenty of options to choose from big-name brands like Chevy, Nissan, Toyota, and much more.
Check out our online pre-owned inventory to see all that we have to offer. Once you find something that feels right for you, chat with one of our representatives for more information and assistance.
0 comment(s) so far on Advantages and Disadvantages Of Driving An Electric Vehicle