Is Now the Right Time to go Electric?

Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular every day. That said, many drivers do not know the ins-and-outs of these vehicles, and may be unsure of whether or not they want to make the proverbial leap to an all-electric vehicle. This article is going to lay out the differences between traditional vehicles and electric ones, to help you make the right decision for you and your family.

The Physical Differences

Traditional cars are powered by an internal combustion engine. It uses the force generated by burning gasoline to power the vehicle. This is an intense process, and it subjects the vehicle to significant wear-and-tear. Any vehicle owner who has had to pay for repairs after just using their car normally knows this to be true.

Electric vehicles differ from traditional ones in that they are powered simply by batteries and motors. There are still moving parts, of course, but they are fewer and subjected to less degradation during normal use. Electric vehicles do not have oil that needs to be changed because of this, and some models even manage to eschew liquid coolants.

The Advantages of Electric Vehicles

One major mechanical marvel in electric vehicles is regenerative braking. In a traditional car, brakes apply force to slow down the vehicle. This generates a great deal of heat energy that simply dissipates, and it results in the need for relatively frequent (depending on how one drives) replacement of brake pads.

Because electric vehicles are powered by motors, they can run in reverse where a normal vehicle cannot. This allows the motor to pick up some electric charge as the car brakes, and it reduces wear on brake pads. While one cannot travel indefinitely with regenerative braking, it does help to keep the vehicle charged and driving, while saving you money on maintenance costs.

Conclusion

The era of the electric car in America has begun. Every day, new charging stations are added around the country - and the world, for that matter - that will allow you to criss-cross the country in your electric vehicle. This article has also avoided an in-depth discussion of the environmental benefits of electric vehicles; suffice it to say that it is better for the planet if we drive cars that are propelled by electricty that stems from renewable energy sources, like wind and solar.

If you are ready to make the switch, or simply have more questions about electric cars, then come on down to Evans Volkswagen! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make sure that your experience in the dealership is helpful and professional - both inside and beyond the showroom.