Electric Vehicles

Electric cars are the cleaner choice compared to internal combustion engines. 
Fancy yourself the owner of a new EV? It may just be the right choice for you.
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In a few decades, the relationship between the environment, resources, and conflict 
may seem almost as obvious as the connection we see today between 
human rights, democracy, and peace.   
                                    —Wangari Maathai

10 Benefits of an Electric Car

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As Electric Vehicles (EV) become more popular, the technology is improving, the price is going down, and the infrastructure for plug-in stations is expanding. People choose EVs for many reasons, from environmental to financial. Want to avoid the gas station? Take a look at the benefits that EVs provide.
10. Transition to Renewable Energy
Alternative energy sources are becoming an increasingly popular choice. Your purchase of an electric vehicle helps support the country’s transition to renewable energy. Reduce your carbon footprint and make your commute cleaner and greener. 
9. Enjoy Saving Money
Electric vehicles (EV) use electricity for all or part of their power. Electricity is lower in cost than conventional fuels. Compared to gasoline vehicles, EVs are less costly to run. Reduce your fuel costs significantly. 
8. Reduce Maintenance and Save Time
Electric vehicles have neither a combustion engine nor a transmission. Thus there is no need for oil changes, fuel filters, or emissions testing. The simplified drive train and braking system are more reliable and may need fewer repairs. Also, the EV battery recharges at your home—no more trips to the gas station.
7. Take Advantage of Tax Credits
The initial costs of a new EV can be offset by a federal tax credit. The IRS tax credit is currently between $2500 and $7500 depending on the size of the vehicle and its battery capacity. There may also be federal and state incentives. Take advantage of what is available for your EV model.
6. Reduce Dependence on Imported Oil
Almost all your electricity comes from domestic coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, and other renewable resources. When you charge your EV you are using American-made energy. You are not supporting the imported oil that most gasoline-powered vehicles use. This supports energy independence and increases energy security.
5. Reduce Carbon Emissions
Much of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions come from our use of gas-powered vehicles. Electric vehicles, however, produce zero tailpipe emissions. It is true that producing the electricity for the EVs creates greenhouse gases. But even when the electricity is primarily generated from coal, EVs cut carbon emissions almost by half.
4. Reduce Pollution from Oil and Fossil Fuels
Electric vehicles run more efficiently and require less energy to run than conventional vehicles. EVs don’t produce the pollution that is caused by internal combustion engines. Also, going electric cuts out the use of oil, transmission fluids, brake fluids, etc. Though there are still environmental costs in creating the electricity, it is much less than pollution effects from gas-powered vehicles.
3. Reduce Noise Pollution
Internal combustion engines are noisy. EVs run much, much quieter.
2. Recycle the Batteries
Electric batteries in EVs do have a limited lifespan. As battery technologies improve, EV batteries should last longer and be cheaper to replace. One advantage to the batteries is that once their useful life in a vehicle is reached, the batteries can be recycled to use to hold excess energy reserves. The batteries can serve as an emergency generator for homes. And they can serve as storage for alternative renewable energy, such as wind or solar power. Almost 100% of EV batteries are recyclable, which means there is no disposal problem.
1. Take Advantage of HOV Lanes
Some states allow EVs to drive in their HOV lanes. You may smile as you zoom along in the carpool lane, even though you’re driving by yourself.
Source Facts: US Department of Energy
Public charging stations for EVs are not nearly as plentiful as gas stations. But in the future, this may change, especially as recharging technology becomes faster. Right now, EVs may not be the choice for long commutes or far travel, but when most driving is done fairly close to home, EVs serve as well as gas-powered vehicles. You can feel good about taking part in a cleaner, greener commute and reduce your personal carbon footprint.

If you enjoyed reading this list, find additional articles like this in Environment.

Comments

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Posted Jan. 21, 2014
My Prius is a hybrid, not fully electrical. Luckily, I can drive it for long distances as well as just around town. There are more hybrids coming out now, too. I look forward to the future of electric cars. But gas stations are still where its at right now.
  RRoyal282