EV Benefits
Cost Less to Operate
EVs cost less to operate, so the higher initial vehicle cost can be offset over the lifetime of the vehicle. That's because electric drivetrains are about three times more efficient that conventional vehicles, and electricity is cheaper than gasoline or diesel fuel.
On average, the cost of fueling a car with electricity is 60% less than gasoline. With low rates from Idaho Falls Power that is roughly the same as paying $0.60/gallon.
Cost Less to Maintain
EVs have fewer maintenance requirements because they have fewer moving parts and fluids to change, and their electrical systems require minimal maintenance. There's no engine, transmission, spark plugs, valves, fuel tank, tailpipe, distributor, starter, clutch, muffler, or catalytic converter. There are a lot fewer things to break down. There are no oil changes, and maintenance costs are much lower.
EVs have a manufacturer's battery warranty that typically covers 8 years/100,000 miles. Expected battery lifetime is 10–12 years under normal operating conditions.
PHEVs have a conventional engine, so their maintenance requirements are similar to those of conventional vehicles.
Cost to Purchase
Some plug-in hybrid and all-electric vehicles qualify for a $2,500 to $7,500 federal tax credit. Additionally, prices of EV's are starting to equalize with conventional vehicles, as production volumes increase and battery technologies mature.
Emissions
Transportation is one of the leading sources of emissions in America. By replacing gasoline with domestic electricity, EVs cut fossil-fuel use and tailpipe emissions.
Additionally, electricity from Idaho Falls Power is 97% carbon-free. Not only are you reducing fossil fuel use by driving an EV, you get the added benefit of powering your EV with clean energy.
Performance
EVs provide instant torque, resulting in a fun, fast, smooth, and quiet driver experience! The driving experience is much different from a traditional gasoline-fueled car because EVs feel like they glide effortlessly.
Today's EVs do everything a gas car can do—and more. Drivers love the high performance, the silence, the instant acceleration, and the new technology and safety features associated with EVs. An electric motor provides full torque from a standstill and completely changes the experience of getting onto a fast-moving highway.
Convenient Charging
Drivers like the convenience and savings of charging at home. Because they use little or no gas, these vehicles minimize or even eliminate trips to the gas station. Most drivers primarily charge at home or at work. Charging at home usually saves money. With a residential price of 7.15 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) Idaho Falls residents can charge their vehicles for less than half the national average (16.33 cents per kWh.)
A growing network of public charging sites nationwide lets more consumers consider purchasing an electric car.
