We’re hearing more and more about electric vehicles (EVs) and it’s becoming easier to buy one. So why are people considering an EV for their next car. And what are the pros and cons of electric cars?
The pros of electric cars
There are several advantages of having an EV, and while they might seem obvious, there is no harm in highlighting them for you:
- There are no nasty emissions. We know that the emissions from cars contribute to our carbon footprint and are bad for the environment, so EVs are a good way to help reduce emissions and improve air quality. The UK government has a target to reduce emissions under their Road to Zero strategy, and transport causes about 25% of our greenhouse gas emissions, so switching to an EV helps meet the target.
- Lower or zero emissions means a reduction in pollution. More EVs than petrol or diesel cars will mean less pollution in the future.
- Recycle, recycle, recycle. So many EVs are made using recyclable materials, especially on their interiors, like seats, trim panels and the dashboard. When you research EVs the manufactures will have info about how their cars are made, for example: the BMW i3 is made of recycled plastics and renewable materials and 95% of the car could be recycled.
- It’s not just what the cars are made of that’s important. It’s what happens to them afterwards as well. When the cars are dismantled the waste is reduced because of the eco-friendly creation. And parts of the car can be recycled again, like the battery!
- Lower fuel costs: EVs offer owners savings when compared to the fuel costs for petrol or diesel. Yes, there will be a slight increase in electricity bills, but it usually is lower than fossil fuel costs.
The cons of electric cars
It is easy to shout about the positives of owning an EV but what about the disadvantages of electric cars? It depends on your reasons and lifestyle as to why you are looking at alternate modes of transport.
- Indirect pollution: yes, there are no exhaust fumes, but they do use batteries, which need to be charged, either at home, at work or at a charge point. And what generates the electricity? Largely non-renewable power sources – which still has a negative effect on the environment.
- Set up costs: electric cars are becoming more reasonably priced, but they can be an investment compared to a fossil-fuelled car; especially when you might need to install a charge point at home or work.
- Long charge time: charge time vary depending on the charge point and car, but it can take up to 12 hours for a full charge. And journeys will need planning to make sure you don’t run out of power.
It’s great that we have an alternative to petrol and diesel cards, especially as EV’s are better for the environment. So if you are ready to explore the EV market and want to find out more about getting a charge point at your home or office, why not get in touch with us?
