With electric vehicles becoming more accessible within Australia, you may be considering making the move to an electric car. So let’s explore the pros and cons of going electric!
Purchase Price
There are common perceptions that electric cars are much more expensive to purchase than gas-powered vehicles. Although the initial costs can be slightly higher, the range of electric vehicles on the market is expanding with more options to suit a broader range of budgets. You can get started with a hybrid vehicle (partly powered by electricity) for around $25,000, or roughly $45,000 for fully electric. Brands that have a wide offering in this space include Hyundai, BMW and Tesla, but the selection available is expanding with Mazda, Kia and MG also launching a limited range.
Performance and Driving Experience
Electric vehicles have a reputation for providing a smooth yet powerful drive. With no exhaust system cars are quieter, although if you like the roar of the engine, many vehicles have the option to switch on a ‘fake’ exhaust sound to give a more traditional driving experience. Electric motors can also react quicker than mechanical engines, giving the driver more responsiveness and agility behind the wheel.
Something that is important to consider is the driving range of electric vehicles. This is a challenge for Australia, which is still growing its network of public charging stations to support a fully-electric fleet on our roads. There are certainly more stations popping up, but if you’re heading on a road trip to a rural area you may find it challenging.
Running Costs
This is where electric vehicles really shine, with the ongoing costs significantly less (as little as a third of the cost per 100km*) than gas-powered alternatives. The cost to recharge an electric vehicle is notably less than the cost of a tank of fuel, and the maintenance costs are also lower due to the fact electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and
experience less wear and tear.
The Environment
There is no doubt that the environmental impact of gas-powered vehicles is a big motivator for many people to make the switch to electric. Electric vehicles have zero exhaust emissions and significantly smaller carbon footprint than gas-powered alternatives. Electric vehicles can also be charged using renewable energy (for example if you have solar panels on your house), further reducing your carbon footprint each time you head out for a drive.
Is an electric car right for me?
There are many pros and cons to electric cars, but there is no doubt that demand within the Australian market is growing steadily. While there are still hurdles to overcome when it comes to long-distance driving and pricing, making the move to an electric vehicle could be for you.
* Source: Senate Committee on Electric Vehicles at www.aph.gov.au
