Going all-electric is as easy on your wallet as it is on your lifestyle. Drivers of EV electric vehicles can enjoy potential government incentives, no gas usage, zero vehicle emissions and lower scheduled maintenance costs. Electric Vehicles function by plugging into a charge point and taking electricity from the grid. They store the electricity in rechargeable batteries that power an electric motor, which turns the wheels. Electric cars accelerate faster than vehicles with traditional fuel engines – so they feel lighter to drive.
Electric vehicles (EVs) run on electricity only. They are propelled by one or more electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs. EVs have several advantages over conventional vehicles:
Energy efficient
EVs convert over 77% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels. Conventional gasoline vehicles only convert about 12%–30% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels.
Environmentally friendly
EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants, although the power plant producing the electricity may emit them. Electricity from nuclear-, hydro-, solar-, or wind-powered plants causes no air pollutants.
Performance benefits
Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines (ICEs). Reduced energy dependence. Electricity is a domestic energy source.
Did you know about EV?
The environmental benefits of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles increase if they are powered by electricity from ‘green’ sources such as solar, wind or small-scale hydroelectricity. Is India ready for EV’s?
EVs have some drawbacks compared to conventional vehicles:
EV Driving range
EVs have a shorter driving range than most conventional vehicles—although EV driving ranges are improving. Most EVs can travel more than 100 miles on a charge, and some can travel in excess of 200 or 300 miles depending on the model.
Recharge time
Fully recharging the battery pack can take 3 to 12 hours. Even a “fast charge” to 80% capacity can take 30 min. Batteries for EVs are designed for extended life, and a study by USDOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory suggest these batteries may last 12 to 15 years in moderate climates and 8 to 12 years in severe climates. However, these batteries are expensive, and replacing them may be costly if they fail.
In Conclusion
Having stated the above it is important to note that how far you can travel on a full charge depends on the vehicle. Each model has a different range, battery size and efficiency. The perfect electric vehicle for you will be the one you can use for your normal journeys without having to stop and charge up halfway through.
