Thinking About an EV? Here Are Five Reasons to Make the Switch
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer for the niche tech enthusiast – they are now a practical choice for the everyday driver. EVs are affordable, can travel farther on a single charge, and new models are continually released. At the same time, charging infrastructure continues to grow steadily across California, making it easier to drive electric, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or taking a road trip.
If you’ve been on the fence about making the switch, here are five reasons to buckle up and drive electric.
Charging Up Costs Less than Filling up
Gasoline does not come cheap — especially in California and especially now. On top of that, gas-powered car drivers are forced to withstand massive price swings at the pump. Getting an EV solves both of these problems. In fact, it costs about 40-65 percent less each year to pay for charging versus gasoline. Even greater savings come when charging is done overnight, and when switching from less gas-efficient cars, like SUVs and pickup trucks. Electricity prices are typically more stable than gas prices as well, making it easier for EV drivers to budget for monthly transportation expenses.
2. Charging is Easier Than You Think
One of the biggest misconceptions about electric vehicles: charging is inconvenient. In reality, whether you’re plugging in at home or in public, charging has become much easier. For homeowners, the convenience is unmatched: plug in overnight to wake up to a full battery in the morning. For renters and the garage-less: public EV nozzles in communities, shopping centers, and workplaces are now commonplace.
In fact, California now has more EV nozzles than gas pumps. Locally, there are 193 public chargers in the City of Santa Barbara with more chargers on the way. Four DC fast chargers at Eastside Library were unveiled at a ribbon cutting on August 26.
Look to CEC for support: Incentives are available to install a charger at your home or apartment building. CEC’s free Electrify Your Life service can help you navigate this and other EV charging incentives.
3. Electric Vehicles Require Less Maintenance
EV owners spend about half as much on maintenance as gas car owners for two main reasons: fewer parts and more advanced technology. EVs have fewer moving parts (as much as 100 times fewer parts, in fact) that wear out and fluids that need to be replaced. With an EV, you’ll never need oil changes, spark plug replacements, transmission service, exhaust system repairs — to name a few.
EVs also use more advanced technology that generally requires less maintenance. For example, EVs use regenerative braking technology, which slows the car by running the motor in reverse, not by creating friction on the brake pads. This technology not only saves on brake pad replacements and maintenance, but it also generates energy that goes back into the battery for a double win.
4. Incentives Can Make EVs Surprisingly Affordable
Many Californians qualify for incentives that can significantly lower the upfront cost of an EV purchase or lease. Depending on your income, location, and utility provider, here are a few programs available now:
MyFirstEV: Up to $3,500 off the purchase of a new EV or up to $1,750 off the purchase of a pre-owned EV
The Driving Clean Assistance Program: Up to $7,500 off a new or pre-owned EV and a $2,000 charging credit
Clean Cars 4 All: Up to $11,000 of a new or pre-owned EV and a $2,000 charge card
Utility Incentives (PG&E or SCE): Up to $4,000 off a pre-owned EV
Local Incentive programs (Santa Barbara Clean Energy or Central Coast Community Energy): Up to $4,000 of a new or pre-owned EV
Look to CEC for support: EV incentive programs are complicated and can be difficult to understand without help. Through the EVs For Everyone Assistance program, CEC staff members help local residents navigate the entire EV buying process. CEC can help you find the right car, determine how much you could get through incentives, and provide guidance on applications. The service is completely free and comes with zero commitments.
5. Electric Vehicles Deliver More Than Just Savings
Beyond saving money, EVs make everyday life… better. A few ways how:
EVs are a win for your health, community, and planet. Without tailpipe pollution, they create cleaner air and lower your carbon footprint. For homeowners who want to go the extra “greener” mile, use rooftop solar to charge and you’ll be driving on sunshine.
EVs can help you and your family withstand disasters. When emergencies hit or the power goes out, new models can become a backup power source for your home or devices.
EVs are fun to drive. Hit the accelerator and see what we mean. They deliver instant torque and an ultra smooth ride.
