If you’re in the market for a new car, like any auto you want to look at the both the advantages and the disadvantages as well as the long term savings.
The biggest advantage of an electric car is that it doesn’t produce the pollution that is associated with a gas-fueled car. However, there are still environmental costs involved. The electricity for these cars is generated by burning fossil fuels, which also causes pollution. But, it still cuts the carbon emissions in half by comparison. Another important factor is the lower cost of the fuel, electric versus gas. The United States Department of Energy has calculated that an EV (Electric Vehicle) can run for 43 miles on a dollar’s worth of electricity and with the rising cost of gasoline, gas-powered cars can’t get anywhere near such a low cost per mile. Another advantage of the electric cars is that the rechargeable batteries recycle well. Almost 100% of them can be recycled, which keeps old batteries from becoming a disposal problem.
Now for the flip-side of these electric cars, here are the disadvantages. The key factor is their weight. Because they need to do more than the traditional car battery, their batteries are linked together in battery packs to provide the additional power needed. These collection of batteries are VERY heavy, approximately 1,000 pounds, making it an added factor in the car’s weight and thus greatly reducing the driving range between charging. Any road trip can turn into a nightmare as anxiety kicks in with no place to recharge. A complete battery recharge takes up to eight hours and there are limited quick charge plug in station available across the country. The other major factor is their cost. These electric cars come with a hefty price tag, approximately $33,000 to $40,000 for a hatchback with limited room. Additionally, auto insurance rates are estimated to be higher for electric cars due to the danger of running out of power in a bad spot, its higher cost and the dangers associated with electricity. Maintenance costs as a result of new technology and developing skills between mechanics makes electric cars an even more of a costlier consideration.
Most importantly, before you make a decision on your auto purchase, do your homework on crash test results for any vehicle that you are considering. No matter if you are on a highway or a side road, safety is always a first priority. Happy car-hunting!
Here at Donald J. Medeiros Insurance Agency our goal is to try to help our viewers by suggesting solutions for all insurance needs. By no means can we address each reader’s specific concerns in every incident. So, we strongly advise to check with an insurance representative to address your specific needs. However, you can also contact us for any questions or concerns and we will be happy to help you. We are able to offer a complete line of personal & commercial insurance products for all of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire.
Come visit us at www.donmedeirosinsurance.com or give us a call at 508-678-1271. We look forward to hearing from you! If you have a Facebook account, fan us at www.facebook.com/donmedeiros.
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