Are any of the prevalent niggling doubts regarding the purchase of an electric vehicle rational?
A quick tour of the various EV websites confirms that there are a number of recurring questions and doubts regarding these much talked about, but relatively little-known vehicles.
EVs are too expensive
If cost is your main preoccupation, take a peek at our Calculating your EV ROI article and discover how the purchase of a Ford Focus Electric costing an extra $11,220 more than the gasoline-powered model will provide sufficient savings to finance a week-long trip down south after only two years.
Charging station safety
While one end of the charging station can be plugged into a standard wall outlet, the charging plug itself has been standardized. Charging cannot commence unless the plug is completely inserted. Furthermore, it is impossible to start your electric vehicle while still connected. Don't expect to see images of a distracted EV driver dragging a charging station behind his vehicle on the web.
Am I exposed to any additional risks in an accident?
Your EV is equipped with an emergency cutoff system. The on-board computer is programmed to shut down the different systems in case of a major impact. First-responders and firefighters have received specific EV training that helps them identify and deal with potential issues than could occur in an accident.
Are EVs safe?
They go through the same IIHS collision tests. If your vehicles crash-safety rating is an area of concern, go to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website, it is both free and easy to navigate. You will find detailed descriptions and various videos explaining the different tests, as well as the IIHS safety-rating for your vehicle.
Do EVs function well in cold weather?
Of course, and if the term ‘fires right up’ could apply, it would be the most accurate description! Autonomy is reduced, due in large part to the added strain of heating the passenger compartment as well as the diminished battery capacity that comes with cold weather. Want to find out more? Consult the What about an EV in colder weather? article in our Green File!
What is an EV's top speed?
You can easily push your EV into ‘speeding ticket’ range. Even if some EVs are ‘limited’ to 130-140 km/h, zipping around on a racecourse, overtaking slower traffic, and brisk acceleration are readily available to those who are looking for speed.
How is EV range calculated?
The much-publicized 160 km Nissan LEAF range varies according to individual driving habits, speed, and outdoor temperature. So, how did they come up with this figure?
EV range figures are based on the American EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) LA4, or 'city’ test. The 1,369 second (nearly 23 minute) test, which includes 18 stops, is performed for 11.9 kms on a dynamometer at 31.3 km/h. This test wreaks havoc on gasoline-powered vehicle fuel ratings, while heavily favoring EVs.
Sources:
IIHS.org
CAA
Nissan.ca
Communauto
Government of Ontario
EPA.gov
A quick tour of the various EV websites confirms that there are a number of recurring questions and doubts regarding these much talked about, but relatively little-known vehicles.
 |
| 2013 Chevrolet Volt (Photo: Chevrolet) |
EVs are too expensive
If cost is your main preoccupation, take a peek at our Calculating your EV ROI article and discover how the purchase of a Ford Focus Electric costing an extra $11,220 more than the gasoline-powered model will provide sufficient savings to finance a week-long trip down south after only two years.
Charging station safety
While one end of the charging station can be plugged into a standard wall outlet, the charging plug itself has been standardized. Charging cannot commence unless the plug is completely inserted. Furthermore, it is impossible to start your electric vehicle while still connected. Don't expect to see images of a distracted EV driver dragging a charging station behind his vehicle on the web.
Am I exposed to any additional risks in an accident?
Your EV is equipped with an emergency cutoff system. The on-board computer is programmed to shut down the different systems in case of a major impact. First-responders and firefighters have received specific EV training that helps them identify and deal with potential issues than could occur in an accident.
Are EVs safe?
They go through the same IIHS collision tests. If your vehicles crash-safety rating is an area of concern, go to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website, it is both free and easy to navigate. You will find detailed descriptions and various videos explaining the different tests, as well as the IIHS safety-rating for your vehicle.
Do EVs function well in cold weather?
Of course, and if the term ‘fires right up’ could apply, it would be the most accurate description! Autonomy is reduced, due in large part to the added strain of heating the passenger compartment as well as the diminished battery capacity that comes with cold weather. Want to find out more? Consult the What about an EV in colder weather? article in our Green File!
What is an EV's top speed?
You can easily push your EV into ‘speeding ticket’ range. Even if some EVs are ‘limited’ to 130-140 km/h, zipping around on a racecourse, overtaking slower traffic, and brisk acceleration are readily available to those who are looking for speed.
How is EV range calculated?
The much-publicized 160 km Nissan LEAF range varies according to individual driving habits, speed, and outdoor temperature. So, how did they come up with this figure?
 |
| Photo: EPA.gov |
EV range figures are based on the American EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) LA4, or 'city’ test. The 1,369 second (nearly 23 minute) test, which includes 18 stops, is performed for 11.9 kms on a dynamometer at 31.3 km/h. This test wreaks havoc on gasoline-powered vehicle fuel ratings, while heavily favoring EVs.
Sources:
IIHS.org
CAA
Nissan.ca
Communauto
Government of Ontario
EPA.gov