How to Choose and Buy the Right Electric Vehicle

How to Choose and Buy the Right Electric Vehicle

Electric vehicles are transforming how we think about transportation. With technological breakthroughs and increased environmental concerns, an increasing number of people are considering switching to electricity. Popular EV and hybrid models in Canada include the Tesla Model 3, Nissan LEAF, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Toyota Prius, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. 

However, with plenty of options available, choosing the right electric vehicle can be overwhelming. If you’re thinking about buying an electric vehicle, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and choose the right electric vehicle for you. This includes types of EVs, battery range, at-home charging, public charging networks, and other details. Let us help you in choosing the right electric vehicle for your needs!

How to Choose and Buy the Right Electric Vehicle

Types of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles come in a variety of designs to meet different driving needs and preferences. EVs refer to a variety of vehicles, including fully electric cars, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hybrid electric vehicles. These electric vehicles provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional automobiles and are gaining popularity because of their environmental benefits and lower operating costs. Understanding the differences between different types of EVs is critical for choosing the right vehicle.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)

BEVs are fully electric vehicles that rely solely on electricity for propulsion. They do not have an internal combustion engine and must be plugged into an external power source to recharge their batteries. 

BEVs offer zero tailpipe emissions and are ideal for drivers with access to charging infrastructure. These BEVs can be recharged using a standard three-prong plug, but this only offers a limited range per hour, hence dedicated wall chargers or stand-alone charging stations are recommended for faster charging. Notable BEV examples include the below:

BEV sedans: Nissan LEAF, Audi e-Tron, Hyundai IONIQ 6, Kia Soul EV, BMW i4, Porsche Taycan 

BEV SUVs: Hyundai IONIC 5, Kia Niro EV, Chevrolet Bolt, Jaguar I-PACE, Tesla Model Y

BEV trucks: Ford F-150 Lightning

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)

A PHEV combines an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and a rechargeable battery. They can operate in electric mode for a limited distance before converting to gasoline or diesel power. PHEVs provide flexibility for drivers who desire extended range but want to cut emissions while traveling. 

PHEVs have a limited electric range before switching to a gasoline engine. Notable PHEV examples include the following:

PHEV sedans:  Audi A3, Audi A4, BMW 330e xDrive, Toyota Prius Prime

PHEV SUVs: Toyota RAV4 Prime, Porsche Cayenne, Kia Niro, BMW X3, BMW X5

PHEV minivans: Chrysler Pacifica

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)

HEVs have an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, however they cannot be plugged in to recharge. Instead, the battery is recharged using regenerative braking and engine power. HEVs are more fuel-efficient than regular automobiles but have a limited electric-only operating range. An HEV has a smaller battery than a pure electric car, and it is charged by the gasoline engine as well as regenerative braking.

The electric motor boosts the gasoline engine’s output during acceleration and other driving situations. HEVs are a popular alternative for drivers looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining performance and driving range. Notable HEV examples include the following:

HEV sedans: Hyundai Elantra, Honda Accord FWD, Toyota Prius

HEV SUVs: Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Rav4 XLE

HEV trucks: Dodge RAM eTorque 4WD, Toyota Tundra 4WD

HEV minivans: Toyota Sienna

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)

FCEVs create energy using hydrogen fuel cells, and their only byproduct is water vapour. They have a large range and can be refuelled quickly, making them ideal for drivers that need longer range and quick refuelling times. However, hydrogen fuelling infrastructure is currently limited. Currently, only Hyundai offers a fuel cell vehicle in Canada, which is the NEXO SUV.

What to Consider When Buying an Electric Vehicle?

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles provide various advantages over regular gasoline-powered automobiles. EVs emit zero tailpipe emissions, which reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By switching to electric vehicles, drivers can help improve air quality and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Electric vehicles also have lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to gasoline-powered cars. Electricity is often cheaper per kilometer than gasoline, resulting in significant savings over the vehicle’s lifespan. Furthermore, EVs have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance, resulting in lower long-term servicing costs.

Government Incentives and Rebates

In recent years, the use of electric and hybrid vehicles in Canada has increased significantly. The Canadian government and provincial governments provide a variety of incentives and rebates to encourage the use of electric vehicles, including rebates on new or used EV purchases and incentives for installing home charging stations. Taking advantage of these incentives allows consumers to offset the upfront cost of EVs and save money in the long term.

Range Anxiety

Currently, one common misconception about electric vehicles is range anxiety, the fear of running out of battery charge before reaching a destination. However, modern EVs offer increasingly longer driving ranges, with some models capable of traveling over 200 km on a single charge. Furthermore, the growing network of charging stations makes it easier for drivers to power their vehicles on the go..

Charging Infrastructure

Another common misconception is that electric vehicles do not have sufficient charging infrastructure. While charging infrastructure keeps developing, considerable investments are being made to expand public charging networks and construct charging stations in residential areas, workplaces, and public spaces. With the widespread use of fast-charging technologies, electric vehicle owners can refuel their vehicles quickly and conveniently.

Governments, automakers, and private companies are making significant investments in extending electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Canada. This involves installing fast-charging stations on roads, deploying charging stations in urban areas, and integrating charging facilities into existing infrastructure. As the charging network expands, range anxiety and charging concerns will decrease over time.

Battery Degradation Concerns

There is a common concern that electric vehicle batteries degrade quickly over time, resulting in diminished driving range and performance. While all batteries degrade with time, modern EV batteries are engineered to maintain performance across thousands of charging cycles. Furthermore, advances in battery technology and thermal management systems help to reduce the impacts of degradation, assuring reliability over time and durability.

How to Choose and Buy the Right Electric Vehicle?

Assessing Your Needs

In some ways, buying an electric vehicle is similar to purchasing any other vehicle. Before picking up an electric vehicle, it is critical to evaluate your needs. Consider your daily commute distance, access to charging stations, budget limits, and your lifestyle. Understanding your needs can help you choose an electric vehicle that matches your expectations while also meeting your transportation needs.

Researching EV Models

Once you’ve decided that an EV is the correct choice for you and have determined your needs and budget, you can start shopping. To choose the right electric vehicle for your needs, you have to explore the available EV models in your location. Explore various manufacturers and models, compare features and specifications, and read user and expert reviews. To narrow down your selections and find the best electric car for you, consider variables such as range, performance, charging capabilities, safety features, and available technologies.

Understanding Charging Options

Understanding the charging options available for electric vehicles is essential for convenient and efficient charging. While most new EVs can charge at public DC fast-charging stations, using them as your primary charging source might be costly. It’s recommended to differentiate between home and public charging options, examine charging speeds and connector types, and assess the availability of charging stations in your area. Installing a home charging station can bring convenience and flexibility to charging your electric car, ensuring that it is fully charged for your daily driving needs.

Considering Maintenance and Service

Consider the maintenance and servicing requirements of electric vehicles while making your decision. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes, exhaust system maintenance, or complex cooling system repairs. They also experience less brake wear because of regenerative braking. 

While electric vehicles often have more affordable maintenance costs than conventional vehicles, it is important to ensure that service centers are easily accessible for routine maintenance and repairs. Furthermore, check warranty coverage and manufacturer support to address any possible issues that may develop during ownership.

Buying an Electric Vehicle

A new electric vehicle, like most other cars, can be purchased or leased from a dealership, or it can be purchased used from a new car dealer, used car dealer, or private parties. You may now buy new EVs straight from the automaker or online, with or without home delivery.

Dealership Vs Automaker

Buying an electric vehicle from a dealership should be the same as purchasing a gas-powered vehicle. Buying from a dealership allows you to engage with a salesperson who may provide customized guidance, answer questions, and walk you through the purchasing process. Dealerships frequently provide test drives as well as additional offerings like financing and maintenance packages.

While buying directly from the automaker, usually through their website or designated sales channels, may result in a more simplified and transparent purchasing process. This strategy can cut out the middlemen and perhaps reduce costs connected with dealership markups and fees.

While direct purchases from automakers may have set prices, dealerships may be more flexible in negotiating the price of the EV, allowing you to potentially get a better bargain or take advantage of special deals and service package discounts. 

Buy or Lease an Electric Vehicle

When you buy an EV, you own the vehicle outright and can keep it for as long as you desire. With leasing, you’re essentially renting the vehicle for a specified period, typically three to five years, after which you return it to the dealership. While you can buy or lease an electric vehicle, just like a conventional gas car, the situation could be more complicated with an EV.

Upfront Costs: EVs typically have a higher price tag than gasoline cars, buying typically requires a larger upfront payment, whether in the form of a down payment or full purchase price. Leasing, on the other hand, often involves lower upfront costs, such as a smaller down payment or sometimes even no down payment at all.

Monthly Payments: Leasing generally results in lower monthly payments compared to buying. Lease payments cover the vehicle’s depreciation over the lease term, whereas buying involves paying off the entire purchase price of the vehicle over the loan term.

Maintenance and Repairs: When you buy an EV, you’re responsible for all maintenance and repair costs once the warranty expires. With leasing, the vehicle is usually covered under warranty for the duration of the lease, so you may have lower out-of-pocket expenses for maintenance and repairs.

Mileage Restrictions: Leases often come with mileage restrictions, typically ranging from 16,000 to 24,000 kilometers per year. Exceeding the mileage limit can result in additional fees at the end of the lease term. If you have a long commute or frequently take road trips, buying may be a better option to avoid mileage restrictions.

Ultimately, whether to buy or lease an electric vehicle depends on your situation and preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each option carefully to determine which aligns best with your needs and requirements.

More from Carnex Blog:

Best Electric Vehicles of 2023 and 2024 in Canada

Future EVs: 11 New EVs and Hybrids Coming in 2024

Will Buying an Electric Vehicle Save You Money?

As always, Carnex can provide you with detailed information about buying and selling used electric vehicles in Canada.

Carnex is the top online EV expert in Canada for buying and selling used electric vehicles in Canada.

Learn more about the benefits of buying from Carnex. We believe that all clients deserve to know the good and bad of what they’re buying. Because we wanted to know these when we bought cars. That’s why at Carnex.ca, we will proudly display every detail every step of the way. Browse all the best cars, automobile buying tips, auto insurance, young drivers, driving techniques, auto industry trends from Carnex Blog.