Facts & Stats About Electric Cars

You’ve probably heard that electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming quite popular. However, you likely don’t know how they work or which ones are the most reliable or affordable. Below, Route 9 Nissan presents some interesting facts and stats about electric cars for our Massachusetts customers. Learn more about EV pros, such as their fuel efficiency and reduced impact on the environment. If you’re on the fence about switching to an electric vehicle, we urge you to stop by and take the new Nissan Leaf for a spin!

The earliest electric vehicle was built in 1884 in the UK by English inventor Thomas Parker. The first electric vehicle in the United States was built in 1890 by American inventor William Morrison. The first U.S. electric car could carry up to six passengers and move a whopping 14mph. EVs were quickly replaced in popularity by gasoline-powered vehicles, thanks to the invention of the internal combustion engine and cheap gas prices.

Over 10 million electric vehicles are in current use globally, accounting for 2-3% of all new vehicles on the road. This percentage is expected to increase over the next decade. Electric vehicle sales have been on the rise in recent years, as more people search for more fuel-efficient vehicles with fewer emissions.

There are three main types of electric vehicles: battery electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). A battery electric vehicle has an electric motor and a battery. A hybrid electric vehicle features both a petrol or diesel engine and a small electric motor and battery. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle has a larger battery than a standard hybrid vehicle and can run on electricity or gasoline. Hybrid electric vehicles can recharge their batteries through regenerative braking (transforming kinetic energy into electricity). Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can be charged at public charging stations or with at-home chargers.

Because battery electric vehicles don’t have an internal combustion engine, they do not contribute to the release of harmful carbon dioxide emissions. Fewer tailpipe emissions result in improved air quality for all and a climate saver. Most electric vehicles are equipped with sound-insulating materials and optimized electric motors. Compared to conventional vehicles, electric vehicles are much quieter, resulting in less noise pollution and a more peaceful existence.

Globally speaking, China has the biggest electric vehicle market. You can find nearly half of the world’s battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in China. However, Norway has emerged as the world’s leader in the number of electric cars per capita (due to Norway’s smaller population compared to China and other larger countries).

Electric vehicles are produced worldwide by Tesla, Nissan, Toyota, Chevrolet, Kia, BMW, Volkswagen, and other well-known auto manufacturers. The reviews among electric vehicle owners are primarily positive, with most current owners reporting they would buy or lease another in the future. Join the growing revolution!

Although the initial price tag may be a bit more, electric vehicles can save their owners on fuel and maintenance costs throughout their lifetime. They don’t require oil changes, coolants, or transmission and brake fluid replacements and are much easier to maintain than conventional vehicles. Several state and federal tax incentives are available to make them more affordable for the average family. Check with Route 9 Nissan’s financing department to explore your options. Come take a Nissan Leaf for a test drive at our Westborough, MA dealership today. Reach out with any additional questions or concerns.