Climate change and sustainability are hot topics of conversation these days. In an effort to curb greenhouse gas emissions and cut fossil fuels reliance, cars are the focus of the automotive industry. In some economic proposals, traditional combustible engine vehicles would already be off the road and the whole world would be moving around in electric cars. A lot of people who support these agendas are in complete agreement about electric vehicles. Not only are electric vehicles better for the environment, but leaders also believe that they’re less expensive to operate. However, are they really?
Are Electric Cars Really Cheaper to Run?
Like many things that take center stage, you might not have a full picture of the conversations that surround electric cars. Rather than just listening to elected and unelected officials, doing your own research and drawing your own conclusions is important. Before you decide to pledge your allegiance to electric vehicles (EVs) and trade your old (or brand new) reliable combustible engine vehicle for an EV, learning more and painting a broad picture is essential. One of the most crucial questions that your research should seek to answer is whether or not EVs are actually cheaper to run. Let’s take a look…
Fuel Costs
It is absolutely true that the cost of fuel has risen exponentially. In fact, between January and October 2021, gas prices increased by almost 158 percent. While gas prices have dropped a bit, they’re still markedly higher than they were a year ago. When you own an EV, you can save money at the pump. A study found that the cost of operating an EV in the US cost is about $485. This is much cheaper compared to the cost of a gas-powered car, which was around $1,117 in 2018. However, it is important to note that while you might save at the pump, you do have to take into account the impact charging your vehicle at home will have on your utility bills and travel plans.
Maintenance Fees
In terms of maintenance expenses, you may spend less on an electric vehicle than you would on a gas-powered car. The reason? EVs don’t contain as much equipment as internal combustion engines. These parts include transmissions, spark plugs, radiators, and fuel filters. All of these components do experience wear and tear and must be maintained. Since EVs don’t have nearly as many components, they don’t require as much maintenance. Therefore, they are less costly to maintain. Furthermore, much of the breaking in an EV is performed by the motor. This helps to cut down the amount of strain placed on the brake pads and rotors, in turn, saving you money.
However, in the event that issues arise with any of the components of your EV, you may have to spend more to have it repaired. Not to mention the fact that it may be harder to find someone, or the parts to perform the repairs.
Summing It Up
We can’t tell you whether an EV or a standard vehicle, powered by an internal combustion engine, is the better way to go. That is because there are many other factors that need to be taken into consideration; not just the price. However, before making your final decision, be sure to consider all of the pros and cons that are associated with each type of vehicle. This will choose the best option for your wants and needs.
Additional Information:
EV vs. Gas: Which Cars Are Cheaper to Own? – Car and Driver
True Cost of Electric Vehicles – AAA
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