Electric Vehicle FAQs

Many drivers are looking toward electric vehicles (EVs) as they become popular, which means more questions are coming up while shopping. EVs use different terms and processes than traditional vehicles, making it more difficult to decide if one will be right for you. New technology needs less upkeep than combustion powertrains and offers incredible performance, even though it might be unfamiliar to many drivers.

Most of the terms and details of the EV landscape are easily learned and understood once you have the details. We're here to explain the acronyms and terms used around EVS and answer common EV questions to ensure you stay confident in choosing one.

How EV Terms Compare to Gas-Powered Vehicles

Horsepower vs Kilowatts

Many drivers are familiar with "horsepower," but EVs are rated in kilowatts. Most manufacturers will share the horsepower equivalent for shoppers to see, but if they don't, a kilowatt is nearly a third more powerful than one horsepower. For instance, a 100-kilowatt motor offers roughly 134 horsepower, giving you an accurate look at each model you're considering.

Kilowatt-hours

A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is used to describe the power over a period of time from the battery. This measurement can directly relate to how much it will cost to charge your vehicle. It can be important to consider the cost of charging versus the cost at a gas station when you want to make the switch to an EV.

MPG vs MPGe

MPGe stands for miles per gallon equivalent. MPGe is used like MPG: measuring how far you can go. One gallon of gas produces 115,000 BTUs, and an electric motor would need to use 33.7 kWh of electricity for the same measurement, meaning using 33.7 kWh to drive 100 miles provides a 100 MPGe rating.

Should I be Worried About Range?

Many drivers experience "range anxiety" while shopping for an EV, but it is becoming an outdated fear. New EVs can have ranges exceeding 250 or 300 miles, providing more than enough distance for daily driving and weekend outings. There are many public charging stations you can rely on if you are planning a longer journey.

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Are EVs really better for the environment, from raw materials mined to manufactured to driven to scrapped?

Studies have shown that electric vehicles are better for long-term environmental impact. Scientists and researchers from the International Council on Clean Transportation have found that material extraction, manufacturing, packaging, transportation, use, and end-of-life for an EV still results in the lowest greenhouse gas emissions.

Do EVs catch fire? Does that make them unsafe?

EVs can catch fire, but according to the National Fire Protection Association, combustion-engine vehicles are more likely to catch fire than an EV. EVs should not be considered unsafe. EV fires catch headlines and attention because putting them out takes more gallons of water and time. Advancements in battery technology continue to reduce the likelihood of an EV fire.

How do I know what charger to buy for home charging?

While you might be tempted to buy the highest capacity charger you can find, it's not always necessary. Level 2 chargers can charge your battery overnight or in just a few hours because most drivers don't let their battery drop under half. The included charging cable will likely be enough for your needs if you only use your EV for commuting and errands.

How fast does a charger charge?

Charging rates vary based on many factors. The charging cables that come with your EV are 120 volts (Level 1) and 240 volts (level 2). Level 1 charging normally charges between two and five miles per hour. Level two charging can be three times faster, offering up to 180 miles in twelve hours. Public rapid-charging, DC Fast Charging stations are available to charge your vehicle in less than an hour.

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