What to Know Before Purchasing a Fuel-Efficient Electric Vehicle
Many modern consumers are considering purchasing an electric vehicle to avoid the gas pumps. Today, electric vehicles account for 2-3% of all new vehicles on the road. The number of electric vehicle owners is expected to increase, as more models become more mainstream in the coming years. If you’re on the fence about purchasing a battery power electric vehicle in Massachusetts, Route 9 Nissan presents a helpful guide about what you should know. Learn more about their safety features and more.
What Is an Electric Vehicle? Are There Different Types of EVs?
An electric vehicle (EV) is powered by an electric motor using energy stored in a battery pack. Some EVs run entirely on electricity, while some are more of a hybrid, running on electricity and a gas-powered internal combustion engine. Some electric vehicles plug-in like a cellphone to recharge. However, not all of them require a charging station. One trait all electric vehicles have in common is their fuel efficiency and ability to produce fewer harmful emissions than most conventional vehicles. Here are the three main types of electric vehicles to consider:
- Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – A battery power electric vehicle runs solely on battery-powered electricity without an internal combustion engine or gasoline. Its batteries charge through plug-in charging stations. This type of electric vehicle produces zero emissions.
- Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) – Hybrid electric vehicles run on a combination of traditional gasoline and a battery’s electric energy. Their batteries recharge via the internal combustion engine (also called regenerative braking). As the car slows down while braking, it absorbs energy to provide additional power. Hybrid EVs produce lower emissions than conventional vehicles.
- Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can recharge via regenerative braking or by plugging into a charging station. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can run on gasoline or electricity and usually have a larger battery than standard hybrid models.
What Are the Benefits of Going Electric?
Whether you’re looking for a more fuel-efficient vehicle or one that’s better for the environment, there are numerous benefits of going electric. Electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, resulting in lower fuel costs. Additionally, many state and federal tax incentives can help you save even more off the initial purchase price. Electric vehicles require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because they don’t have an internal combustion engine and fewer moving parts to repair or replace. You won’t have to worry about getting oil changes, and the brakes usually last longer on electric vehicles. Finally, you can feel good about driving an electric vehicle, knowing you’re doing your part to reduce noise pollution and emissions in your local environment. Electric vehicles offer a smoother, quieter, safer ride!
What Safety Features Are Available for Electric Vehicles?
Today’s electric vehicles are equipped with many standard and optional safety features, including:
- • Adaptive cruise control
- • Blind-spot monitoring
- • 360-degree surround camera systems
- • Automatic high-beam technology
- • Rear automatic emergency braking
- • Lane-departure warnings
- • Lane-keeping and -centering assists
- • Forward-collision warning with emergency braking
What Should I Know About Charging an Electric Vehicle?
Newer electric vehicles can travel up to 200 miles on a fully charged battery, with advanced models lasting up to 400 miles. The number of public EV charging stations across the country continues to grow, with more DC fast chargers being added all the time. You can also purchase Level 1 and Level 2 home chargers to make recharging your EV’s battery more convenient. How much it costs to charge your EV at home depends on how much you drive and the cost of your electricity. Historically, U.S. electricity costs have been lower than gasoline for more than a decade.
Find the Right Electric Vehicle for All Your Needs Today
Route 9 Nissan would love to help you find the right battery power electric vehicle meeting your needs. Stop by our showroom in Westborough, MA to take one for a test drive today. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding financing, parts, service, and more. We’re happy to help!
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