By Chris Purdy, Vice-President, Member Solutions
Do you want to drive an electric car?
Don’t be surprised if you come by the office and I ask if you’d like to drive an electric car.
EVolet was purchased to help our members learn more about electric vehicles and their potential.
All-Electric Vehicles
All-electric vehicles (EVs) run only on electricity. Electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs propel them.
According to fueleconomy.gov, EVs have several advantages when compared to conventional vehicles:
Energy efficient. EVs convert about 59%–62% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels. Conventional gasoline vehicles only convert about 17%–21% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels. That’s a big difference.
Environmentally friendly. EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants. However, the power plant producing the electricity may emit them depending on the source of power.
Performance benefits. Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines (ICEs).
EVs have some drawbacks compared to gasoline vehicles:
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 on EVs can take 3 to 12 hours. Even a “fast charge” to 80% capacity can take 30 min. For EVolet, according to the user’s manual, it will take approximately 9.5 hours to charge the vehicle using a 240-volt charging station. If using a standard 120-volt AC electrical outlet, it will take about 50 hours, which is four miles per hour of charging. Battery condition, charge level and outside temperature will make the charge time vary.
Batteries for EVs are designed for extended life. According to the Department of Energy, they 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.
Trusted Energy Advisor
TCEC strives to stay on the leading edge of technology and energy innovation. We are here to help you make the right decision on your energy needs. EVolet will help us learn more so we can better help you decide if an electric vehicle is right for you.