Electric Vehicle Guide

Everything you need to know about transitioning to an electric vehicle. From charging to costs to finding the right EV for your lifestyle.

Why Go Electric?

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Lower Fuel Costs

Save 50-70% on fuel costs compared to gas vehicles

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Less Maintenance

No oil changes, fewer brake jobs, fewer moving parts

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Cleaner Driving

Zero tailpipe emissions, lower lifetime carbon footprint

Instant Power

Smooth, quiet, and responsive acceleration

Making the Switch: What to Consider

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Charging at Home and On-the-Go

Most EV owners charge at home overnight using a Level 2 charger. For road trips, public DC fast chargers can add 100+ miles of range in 20-30 minutes.

Level 1 (120V)

3-5 miles/hour

Standard outlet

Level 2 (240V)

25-30 miles/hour

Home charger

DC Fast Charge

100-200+ miles/30min

Public stations

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Understanding Range

Modern EVs offer 200-400+ miles per charge. For most daily driving (under 50 miles), any EV will work. Consider your longest regular trips when choosing.

Pro Tip: Cold weather, high speeds, and heavy use of heat/AC can reduce range by 10-30%. Plan accordingly for winter driving.

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Costs & Incentives

While EVs can have higher upfront costs, tax credits, lower fuel costs, and reduced maintenance often make them cheaper over time.

Federal Tax Credits

  • • Up to $7,500 for new EVs
  • • Up to $4,000 for used EVs
  • • Income limits apply

Ongoing Savings

  • • 50-70% lower fuel costs
  • • $500-1000/year less maintenance
  • • HOV lane access (some states)

Types of Electric Vehicles

BEV (Battery Electric)

100% electric, no gas engine. Maximum efficiency and zero emissions.

Examples: Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt, Ford Mustang Mach-E

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PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid)

Electric motor + gas engine. 25-50 mile electric range, gas backup for longer trips.

Examples: Toyota RAV4 Prime, Honda CR-V Plug-in, BMW X5 xDrive45e

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HEV (Hybrid)

Self-charging hybrid. No plug needed. Better MPG than gas, but not pure electric.

Examples: Toyota Prius, Honda Accord Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid