In the summer of 2022, I switched to an electric car. I vividly recall the day when the brand-new EV was delivered, bathed in sunshine, and parked in front of my garage. It was a beautiful and exciting afternoon. Today, I reflect on this decision – it is an awesome decision to shift to an electrical car, not only because it aligns with my commitment to environmental responsibility and allows guilt-free car journeys, but also because of the incredible driving experience.
Looking back, the EV landscape was quite different. The post-pandemic global supply chain disruptions led to limited choices and extended wait times. Without much thinking, I went for what was available in stock and fit within my budget. Luckily, the overall experience of owning an electric car surpassed my expectations. As an experienced EV owner, if I were to buy an EV in 2024, I would consider these key factors to ensure a well-informed and satisfactory purchase:
- Price
- Range
- Charging Capabilities
- Maintenance
- Warranty & After Sale Customer Service
- Test Drive and Reviews
1. Price
As technology matures and economies of scale in the EV industry take hold, electric cars are becoming increasingly affordable. Nearly every automobile brand now adopts an electric-focused strategy, leading to many choices in every category for consumers — from small EVs and electric SUVs to high-end models and even vans. Don’t forget to explore available incentives such as government tax credits and free home chargers offered by manufacturers. Additionally, it is worth considering second-hand EVs, display cars at dealerships, for instance, can be a great choice.
On the other hand, leasing proves to be an excellent option for those seeking access to a brand-new EV without the commitment of ownership. I opted for leasing, enabling me to enjoy driving a new electric car while only shouldering the monthly leasing fee. This approach offers a convenient and cost-effective way to stay at the forefront of EV technology without the long-term financial commitment associated with ownership.
2. Range
Electric car range refers to how far an EV can travel on a full charge, a pivotal factor for most consumers considering buying an EV. Ranging from smaller EVs like Mini Electric, offering just over 140 miles, to premium models such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS saloon, boasting an impressive 452-mile range, which is the longest range available on the market currently. Evaluating an EV’s range is crucial to ensure it meets your daily or weekly driving needs.
Taking my scenario as an example, as someone who primarily works from home and makes short daily trips for gym visits, grocery shopping, and transporting children to clubs, the Mini Electric suits my needs perfectly. However, it becomes slightly inconvenient when my family and I drive longer journeys during weekends and holidays. Travelling from South England to the Midlands, we have to stop for charging at least once, requiring careful charging planning to avoid any zero-mile situations! In fact, I’ve witnessed a breakdown service delivering an EV to a charging point at a motorway service, as its battery completely depleted in the middle of a journey.
It’s important to note that an EV’s range can be influenced by several factors. Temperature, for instance, can impact battery efficiency, resulting in a shorter range on cold winter days compared to warm summer ones. Additionally, factors like speed, acceleration, and overall vehicle condition can also play a role. If the manufacturer’s official ‘WLTP’ range is 280 miles, you might only get 200-220 miles in winter at 70 mph.
So if your circumstances are similar to mine, an EV with a shorter range may fit your everyday needs perfectly. However, if you’re a frequent long-distance commuter or regularly embark on cross-country drives, opting for a longer range will make your life much easier.
3. Charging Capabilities
How long does it take to charge an electric car? It depends on both the car model and the charger. There are two types of charging capabilities, AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current). Nearly all EVs offer AC charging that is compatible with home chargers and off-street chargers. The difference arises in DC charging, referred to as “rapid charging” which enables EVs to be charged by fast chargers commonly found at motorway charging stations. DC charging is significantly quicker (and of course much more expensive than AC charging) to top up the battery of your EV, saving you charging times and the total travel duration.
Every electric car has a different maximum DC charge rate, they can vary significantly from model to model. If you drive long distances in general, opting for an EV with a high DC charge rate would be recommended. The higher the KW, the faster the charging could potentially be, 100 kW or above is considered very good at the moment.
In addition, the position of an EV’s charge port is an important factor to consider. In the UK, the right rear is the most common charging port location, followed by the left rear and left front. Before deciding on an EV, it’s advisable to consider where you’ll typically charge it, whether on your driveway with a wall charger or at an off-street charger on a narrow street. Make sure the location of the charge port works for you.
4. Maintenance
Generally speaking, electric cars cost less to maintain than conventional cars. This is due to their simpler mechanical structure with fewer moving parts, reducing the risk of breakdowns. With no oil changes needed and regenerative braking putting less stress on the brake pads, maintenance costs are notably lower. People joke that the car service industry could be revolutionised in the next few years because there won’t be much to inspect.
However, it’s essential to understand the maintenance guidance when comparing different makes and models. For example, a Volkswagen ID3 needs an inspection every 2 years with no mileage limit, while Renault Zoe recommends a checkup every 12 months. In particular, consider the battery’s health, a crucial component in electric vehicles. While modern batteries are durable and come with warranties, the replacement cost can be significantly high if issues arise after the warranty period. Checking the manufacturer’s warranty on the battery and understanding its coverage is crucial for long-term cost considerations. Additionally, routine check-ups for tyre rotation, brake fluid, and cabin air filter replacement are still necessary, but the overall maintenance expenses remain comparatively lower.
5. Warranty & After Sale Customer Service
Like all products and services, the warranty and after-sale customer service offered by manufacturers become critical factors in your decision-making process. EVs come equipped with intricate technology, and having robust coverage and reliable customer service can make all the difference.
Warranty terms vary among manufacturers, covering components like the battery, electric motor and more. Understanding the duration, mileage limits and specifics of coverage is crucial. Typically, battery warranties last around 8 years or 100,000 miles, and some manufactures offer extended warranties. It’s worth noting that warranties may only cover complete battery failure (which is better to avoid), while others operate based on a specified performance threshold. For instance, Kia’s 7-year warranty includes a battery threshold of 70%, ensuring coverage if the battery drops below this within 7 years of purchase.
Equally important is the after-sale customer service. Prompt and efficient service can be a game-changer if you encounter issues post-purchase. Researching customer reviews and experiences with a brand’s service department can provide valuable insights into their responsiveness and commitment to customer satisfaction.
6. Test Drive and Reviews
Last but certainly not least, – the exhilarating test drive! Strap in, and get ready to feel the thrill of acceleration, experience the seamless handling, and witness how an electric car seamlessly integrates into your daily life. It’s your opportunity to experience firsthand how the EV handles, accelerates, and fits into your lifestyle. Pay attention to the driving range, comfort, and overall performance, especially considering your daily commute and usage.
When I first stepped on the accelerator pedal in my EV, I was taken aback – the instant surge of power nearly made me jump! It was truly impressive how responsive and quick the acceleration was. Getting used to regenerative braking took a bit of time, but now I find it indispensable; I can’t imagine driving without it. The serene quietness of the EV also relaxed me and enhanced my enjoyment of driving.
Additionally, dive into the wealth of online reviews from fellow EV owners, particularly those who share similar usage patterns. Hear their stories, learn about their experiences, and uncover the nuances of different EV models. Assessments of charging infrastructure, real-world driving ranges, and long-term ownership experiences can provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of owning an EV.
Professional reviews from trusted sources add another layer to your understanding, offering insights into driving dynamics, technological features, and overall value for money. Consider a blend of user experiences and expert opinions to form a comprehensive understanding of the EV models you’re interested in.
