Things to Consider Before Purchasing Your First EV

As the automotive industry continues to move toward electrification, more consumers are making the switch from gas-powered models to electric vehicles (EVs). If you’re planning to do the same, there are several important things to consider before making your purchase. These include range capabilities, charging infrastructure, financial incentives, and environmental impact.

At Jim Burke Ford, we understand that purchasing an EV is a big decision, and we’re here to assist you at every stage of the process. Our knowledgeable team is just a call or visit away, ready to provide the expertise and guidance you need to make the best choice for your lifestyle and budget. To get you started, we’ve put together some of the essential factors for your EV consideration below.

Several states plan to phase out the sale of new gas-powered vehicles, so an upfront investment in an EV, such as the 2023 Mustang Mach-E, may ultimately deliver better value than purchasing the latest gasoline vehicle model. Despite this advantage, it’s important to note that EVs still typically require a higher upfront investment than their gas-powered counterparts. To ensure that our customers get the best deal, our finance team is on hand to provide information and guidance on available incentives and financing options.

All EV owners must understand that the performance of their electric vehicle’s battery will gradually diminish over time. Even with proper care, an EV battery’s capacity naturally decreases due to chemical reactions within the cells, and improper charging habits can exacerbate this. Scientists are working to improve battery technologies, but there are physical limitations. A reduced battery capacity over time will lead to shorter driving ranges and longer charging times, although manufacturers have safety measures in place to mitigate this decline.

This is a crucial factor to consider before purchasing an EV so that plans can be made for when the vehicle becomes less efficient. This may mean relying heavily on public charging stations, setting money aside for a battery replacement or a second vehicle, or using public transportation more often than before.

Charging an electric car at home is convenient, but occasional on-the-go charging is also necessary, especially for longer trips. While many public stations offer Level 2 charging, some provide Level 3 fast DC charging. This allows rapid battery replenishment, with some electric cars achieving 80% charge in under 30 minutes. Assessing an EV’s fast-charging capability and mileage gain over a specific time is crucial to ensure it meets charging needs.

Let’s take the Ford F-150 Lightning, with its 150 kW+ DC fast charger, as an example. It takes around 36 minutes to charge this model’s standard-range 98 kWh pack from 15% to 80%, while its extended-range 131 kWh pack takes about 41 minutes to achieve the same result. These rapid charging times make this vehicle a more sensible choice for those who drive long distances. Additionally, researching the availability and compatibility of charging stations in the area and along usual routes is advisable.

The driving range of a gasoline car is often not a concern because of the abundance of fuel stations. In contrast, the EV landscape focuses on this aspect, measuring how far an EV can go on a single charge. This crucial metric is at the forefront of EV marketing and is the top consideration for shoppers comparing different models. While EV charging infrastructure is expanding, charging points are still not as common as gas stations, giving rise to a tangible concern for new EV owners known as “range anxiety.”

This is often the deciding factor in whether to buy an EV. If the driving range of a particular EV falls short of someone’s regular driving distances, and there are no charging stations available along their route, they may decide to stick with a gas-powered vehicle.

The US government is transitioning from a $7,500 tax credit for electric car buyers to a new program that offers upfront rebates at the point of sale. This revamped program extends full credits to all plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, introduces a credit for used cars, and has specific eligibility criteria based on vehicle price, buyer income, vehicle origin, and battery material sourcing. Furthermore, various states, cities, local utilities, and automakers may offer additional incentives on top of the federal tax credit, so it’s important to investigate local discounts and assistance programs before purchasing an electric car.

Installing a home charging setup for an EV isn’t a simple task. It involves careful planning, obtaining permits, ensuring the home’s electrical panel can handle the extra load, and choosing a suitable location close to the parking area to prevent cord length limitations. Proper grounding and weatherproofing are crucial for safety, especially for outdoor installations.

Thorough research and preparation are essential when charging an EV at home frequently to ensure battery safety and the integrity of the home’s electrical system. If the requirements for home charging can’t be met and public charging stations are few and far between, then an EV may not be the best option.

Purchasing your first EV requires careful thought. While it’s a great way to save on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint, some factors can make an EV less practical than a conventional vehicle. If you’re ready to purchase one, contact us at Jim Burke Ford in Bakersfield, California. We have a wide selection of EVs and hybrid vehicles for sale, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer any questions you may have to help you make an informed decision.