City of Seattle, WA
10/03/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/03/2024 13:50
Jumpstart Your Journey: A Beginner’s Guide to Electric Vehicles
Welcome to National Drive Electric Week! As public interest and technological innovation in the electric vehicle (EV) sector continue to accelerate, we invite you to join us on a knowledge drive with our Electric Vehicles 101 blog post.
Embracing the electric revolution: An introduction to EVs
Electric vehicles are no longer a niche offering. Rapid advancements in technology have made them an attractive alternative for both new and used car buyers, with more models becoming available, faster charging speeds, and favorable economics.
We have a lot of information available if you're wondering what you need to know before shopping for an EV. Plus, lots of us have questions about these vehicles. Check out some of the most frequent ones.
Navigating the EV landscape: Understanding key terms and charging options
One of the first steps in joining the EV revolution is to become familiar with key industry terms. Battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles, range, kilowatt hours (kWh), and miles per kWh are some terms that will equip you to navigate the EV market with confidence.
Understanding EV charging is also crucial. Level 1, Level 2, and DC Fast Charging are the different charging levels available, each with varying speed and convenience factors. For most EV owners, home charging is the way to go. Level 1 charging at home is both convenient and cost-effective, while Level 2 chargers provide faster charging times.
Beyond home charging, planning for power will make your EV journey smoother. Consider your access to workplace charging facilities or public charging stations when on the road.
Read more about what you need to know about EV charging.
Making the switch: Cost considerations and incentives for acquiring an EV
Encouragingly, operating an EV often comes at lower costs compared to gas-fueled alternatives. This includes not only lower charging costs but also simplified maintenance due to fewer mechanical components in EVs.
Crucial considerations when buying or leasing an EV are its overall cost, battery condition, warranty, recall history, and depreciation. Keep in mind that incentives and tax credits at the state and federal level can significantly offset the purchasing cost.
- Buying a used EV can be a good choice! Check out our buying guide for used EVs.
Finally, nothing beats the satisfaction of driving an EV. Not only will you enjoy these practical advantages, but you'll also be making a positive impact on our environment.
- If you've decided to buy an EV, keep reading to see what comes next!
- If you want to learn more about driving long distances, see what happened when we drove across Washington in an EV.
Join the electric revolution this National Drive Electric Week and drive into a sustainable future with Seattle City Light.