Pros and Cons of Electric Vehicles

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Cars?

Electric cars are becoming ever more popular on our roads as we become increasingly aware of the need to reduce pollution and care for our environment. But many people are reluctant to make the switch from gas or diesel vehicles, with concerns about the price of an electric vehicle, the range, the convenience of charging, maintenance costs, and safety. So, let’s have a look at the benefits and drawbacks of owning an electric car.

What Is an Electric Car?

An electric car is a vehicle that is propelled by one or more electric motors that use energy stored in rechargeable batteries. Compared to cars powered by an internal combustion engine, electric vehicles are quieter, produce no exhaust emissions, and are overall more ecologically friendly.

Electric vehicles are not new. The first practical models were produced in the late 19th century, and as early as 1897, electric vehicles were being used commercially in the U.S. as taxis. However, with advances in internal combustion engine cars and their lower production costs, gas and diesel vehicles grew in popularity, leading to a decline in electric vehicles.

Since then, many manufacturers have developed electric vehicles with mixed success, but they tended to be expensive to produce, the batteries were big and heavy, and the range was prohibitive. The breakthrough came with the development of lithium-ion battery cells, which are lighter and offer better energy efficiency and a longer range between charges.

Today, there are many electric car models on the market, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, and with government incentives, they are becoming more affordable.

Are Electric Cars Expensive To Maintain?

An electric vehicle is typically cheaper to maintain than a conventionally powered car as it has far fewer moving parts. When you think of the routine maintenance required for a gas engine, such as oil changes, air and fuel filters, spark plugs, timing belts, exhaust pipes, and mufflers, the costs can mount up over the life of the vehicle. Electric vehicles don’t have any of these items.

Replacing an electric vehicle’s battery can be costly, but the good news is that most batteries will last a minimum of eight to 10 years, and up to 15 years in a moderate climate. With the Mustang Mach-E, Ford gives you a warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles. The electric motors are also expensive to replace, but they will usually outlast the vehicle itself.

New research shows that, because of its relative simplicity, an electric vehicle will generally need less maintenance and cost less to repair than an average internal combustion engine car. As an electric vehicle driver, you will pay around half as much to maintain and repair your car, and you could expect to save $4,600 over the life of the vehicle compared with a gas-powered car.

What Maintenance Is Required on Electric Cars?  

The typical routine maintenance needed for an electric car includes tires, brake pads, shock absorbers, ball joints, and steering tie rod ends. Electric vehicles have regenerative braking systems that use resistance from the electric motors to slow the vehicle, so brake pads won’t need changing as often as on an internal combustion engine vehicle.

You will need to change the cabin air filters that keep dust and particulates out of your car’s heating and air conditioning system. An electric vehicle does have a cooling system that requires antifreeze, but unlike a gas car’s radiator, it is less likely to become contaminated and will rarely need changing.

Are Electric Cars Safe in a Crash?

According to research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, electric cars are slightly safer for passengers than gas- or diesel-powered cars. 

After some highly publicized events, concerns have been raised over the fire risk posed by lithium-ion batteries in the event of a crash. However, the batteries have a far lower risk of causing a fire or explosion when compared to gasoline. Rather than one large battery pack, they are installed in clusters divided by firewalls that contain the damage that each can cause. They are also surrounded by a protective shroud filled with chilled liquid coolant.

Eight Benefits of Buying an Electric Car

1. An electric car saves you money. While you might pay more initially for an electric vehicle, you may be entitled to a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Charging with electricity rather than gasoline saves you an average of $770 per year.
2. They have greater fuel efficiency. On gasoline-powered cars, only about 17% to 21% of the fuel’s energy goes to moving the vehicle. When you charge up the battery on your electric vehicles, 59% to 62% of that energy goes directly to moving the wheels of the car.
3. They are better for the environment. An electric vehicle produces zero emissions, and as more electricity is produced by renewable energy, your contribution to the environment will be even greater.
4. Electric cars offer convenience. You can have a charger installed in your home and charge your car when it suits you, such as overnight. For driving convenience, you may also get access to restricted express lanes on highways and bridges, special parking spots, and reduced or free tolls.
5. There’s increasing charging infrastructure. When you buy a Ford electric vehicle, you get access to the extensive FordPass Charging Network, making it easy for you to top up your battery wherever you are.
6. They require less maintenance. As discussed above, an electric vehicle has far fewer things that can go wrong and needs less routine maintenance, saving you time and money.
7. You can have the latest technology. New electric vehicles feature the latest cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and entertained.
8. An electric vehicle is fun to drive. An all-electric engine is very responsive with great torque, both of which enhance the driving experience. The Mustang Mach-E GT can take you from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, and with a range of up to 300 miles, the fun goes on and on.

Why You Should Get the Ford Mach-E Through Oxmoor Ford

Oxmoor Ford has been established for over two decades and is committed to offering you an excellent sales experience. Our knowledgeable staff will ensure you are well informed about the Mustang Mach-E before you make your purchase. Our financial specialists are on hand to help with financing your new car.

There has never been a better time for investing in a new electric car, and the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. Visit us at Oxmoor Ford today to start your new journey.