Known for their reliability, advanced technology, rapid acceleration, and substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, electric cars (also referred to as electric vehicles or EVs) have gained significant traction in the automotive market. Their attractiveness is compounded by economic advantages such as lower fuel costs and eligibility for tax incentives. Their increasing popularity in today’s market can also be attributed to advancements in automotive technology, aesthetic appeal, and enhanced overall performance.
Electric Vehicles: BEV vs PHEV
Battery Electric Vehicles: Often referred to as BEVs, these vehicles are exclusively powered by an electric motor and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Unlike their gasoline and hybrid counterparts, they eliminate the need for trips to the gas station. Instead, a majority of electric car drivers install residential EV charging stations, which allows them to conveniently charge overnight at home or in their garages. Furthermore, there are networks of public and commercial charging stations readily available within their local neighborhoods.
Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles: Known as PHEVs, plug-in hybrid vehicles integrate the characteristics of conventional gasoline vehicles and electric vehicles. They are equipped with both a battery-powered electric motor and a gasoline internal combustion engine (ICE). This dual-system approach combines the convenience of traditional gasoline engines with the environmental advantages of electric vehicles. Some drivers prefer using the electric motor for shorter journeys and reserving gasoline power for longer trips.
Plug-in hybrids stand out from regular hybrids due to their more substantial batteries, which allow for recharging in a manner similar to fully electric vehicles. Therefore, maintaining a PHEV entails attending to both its electric and combustion engine components.
Why Choose Electric Vehicles? Benefits, Plus Local Servicing Options
- Convenient Home Charging: Electric cars provide the added convenience of recharging at home. They are specifically beneficial for battery electric vehicles, which eliminate the need for gas station visits altogether.
- Cost-Efficient: Electricity generally presents a more economical option compared to gasoline or diesel, making electric vehicles a financially sensible choice over the long run.
- Environmental Sustainability: With virtually zero exhaust emissions, electric cars play an important role in diminishing and reducing overall vehicle pollution.
- Reduced Noise Pollution: Electric vehicles operate with significantly less noise compared to their gasoline counterparts, contributing to a reduction in noise pollution, especially in densely populated urban areas.
- Smooth, Seamless Driving Performance: Offering robust acceleration and a quiet, smooth operation, electric vehicles tend to deliver an outstanding driving experience.
- Tax and Financial Incentives: Various governments, including federal, state, and local branches, often provide financial incentives and programs to support the purchase, use, and ownership of electric vehicles. These incentives may come in the form of tax reductions, cash rebates, or grants.
Electric vehicles generally require less maintenance than plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), traditional hybrids, and conventional gasoline vehicles. This is primarily due to electric vehicles possessing fewer mechanical components and lacking an internal combustion engine. Maintenance for EVs focuses primarily on the electric battery, with inspections and replacements being essential.
How Often Do Electric Cars Need Maintenance?
| Maintenance Schedule | Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) | Plug-in Hybrids (PHEV) | Gasoline Cars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Every 6 months OR every 6,000 miles (9,657 km) | Battery inspection | Battery inspection | Battery inspection |
| Every 7,500 miles (12,070 km) | Brake system inspection | Brake system inspection | Brake system inspection |
| Every 36,000 miles (58,000 km) | Cabin air filter replacement | Cabin air filter replacement | Cabin air filter replacement |
| Every 30,000 to 150,000 miles (48,300 to 241,400 km) | Cooling system inspection | Cooling system inspection | Cooling system inspections |
| Every 3 to 6 months OR every 6,000 to 7,500 miles (9,657 to 12,070 km) | X | Engine oil change and filter replacement | Engine oil change and filter replacement |
| Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,300 to 96,600 km) | X | Fuel system maintenance | Transmission fluid maintenance |
| At least twice per year | High-voltage component inspection | High-voltage component inspection | High-voltage component inspection |
| Every 7,500 miles (12,070 km) | Tire care, including rotations, balancing, pressure, etc. | Tire care, including rotations, balancing, pressure, etc. | Tire care, including rotations, balancing, pressure, etc. |
| Varies with vehicle manufacturers; info. can usually be found in the infotainment system | Vehicle software updates | Vehicle software updates | Vehicle software updates |
| Every 15,000 miles (24,200 km) | Windshield wiper blade replacement | Windshield wiper blade replacement | Windshield wiper blade replacement |
Through our extensive range of electric vehicle maintenance and repair services, we ensure that your car remains in peak condition. We empower you with the confidence to get your car back on the road again. Schedule your appointment online or call 360-398-2944 to get started today!