Many of our members on Housesitmatch are green or conscious of sustainability. Hence their involvement with the sharing economy and reducing their carbon footprint in travel though housesitting. If you are buying a new car and considering your options read this article on the pros and cons of electric cars. We offer you a run through our thinking of the benefits and honest reflection on some challenges.

The pros and cons of driving electric cars

Electric cars have been getting more and more popular over the past few years. Their sales have increased as people become more environmentally conscious and seek to reduce their carbon footprints. With increasing advances in technology, electric cars have become more and more affordable, and more practical. Their driving range has increased over time, making them a better option for everyday use.

However, as with any major purchase when buying an electric car, it’s worth noting all the pros and cons. In this post, we’ll explore some of the main benefits and drawbacks of owning an electric car, to help you make a more informed decision if you are considering making the switch.

What are the pros of owning an electric car?

If you are considering making the switch to an electric car, then you might already be aware of some of the biggest benefits. The truth is that the advantages of electric cars are difficult to ignore. They are cheaper to run, smoother to drive, and kinder to the environment.

Environmental benefits

One of the main benefits of getting an electric car is that it’s environmentally friendly. Since these vehicles run on electricity, they do not produce any emissions, unlike combustion engine vehicles. Along with this, they run very quietly and do not produce any noise pollution.. This can help improve the environment in cities and other urban areas.

Cost savings

While the initial cost of an electric car can be high compared to buying a used combustion engine car, the good news is that over time, you can save money. Compared to filling a traditional combustion engine car with petrol or diesel, it will be cheaper to run. Charging the battery on your electric car costs a lot less. Along with this, electric vehicles do not require as much maintenance. This is because they have fewer moving parts and are therefore less susceptible to wear and tear. What’s more, there is a greater variety of electric car purchase options available. The increased options in how to buy can save money on the initial outlay. Then there are options to spread the cost, such as electric car leasing. Find out more here on what is the cheapest electric car to lease.

Driving range

In the early days of electric cars, one of the biggest concerns that drivers had concerned their driving range. However, the good news is that advances in technology have led to electric cars with a significantly increased driving range. Some models are now able to travel up to four hundred miles on a single charge. This has made electric cars a much more practical choice compared to in the past. Today, it’s more than possible to drive long distances in an electric vehicle without having to worry about recharging.

Convenience

Another main pro of having an electric car is that they can be more convenient. This is in comparison to a traditional combustion engine car. Electric cars can be charged from your home, which eliminates the need to make trips to the petrol station. What’s more, even if you don’t have or can’t get a charging station to use at home don’t worry. Some people only have access to parking on the road.  However, there are now more charging stations available in public areas such as petrol stations and car parks.

Cons of owning an electric car

Like anything, there are some disadvantages to weigh up if you are considering getting an electric car. While the benefits do tend to outweigh the disadvantages of electric cars, it’s worth knowing as much as possible so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not this is the right choice for you.

Upfront cost

While an electric car can help you save money in the long term, the upfront cost can be off-putting for many people, as it’s typically higher compared to buying a traditional combustion engine car. This can be a huge barrier for many people, and it may take several years of owning an electric car to earn the initial investment back in savings. However, these long-term savings are worth considering, as ultimately, they can make electric vehicles a more cost-effective option.

Charging time for electric cars

The time that it takes to charge an electric car is another major drawback to consider. It can be several hours before an electric vehicle is fully charged, which can be inconvenient for anybody who needs to use their car frequently. However, more and more people are now choosing to have a home charging station installed, which can make charging more convenient. Along with this, faster public charging stations are now available, with some able to charge your electric car in under an hour.

Limited charging infrastructure

Although there are now more public electric vehicle charging stations available than ever before, the infrastructure is still limited in comparison with petrol stations, especially in rural areas. This may make it difficult for electric car owners to travel long distances as there is not always a guarantee that they will be able to find a charging station. However, the good news is that that infrastructure is continually expanding, and with an increasing number of petrol stations now including electric car chargers, it’s expected that there will be more and more options available in the coming years.

Range anxiety

Range anxiety is the term used to describe the fear of running out of battery charge while driving an electric car. However, the good news is that most electric car drivers say that this affects them less when they have an electric car and have spent some time getting used to driving it. In recent years, the range of electric cars has increased significantly. However, it may still be a concern for some people. Unlike combustion engine vehicles which can easily be refuelled at any petrol station, electric car owners need to carefully plan their route and ensure that they are going to have enough charge to reach their destination. In some cases, it might mean taking slightly different routes and doing more planning ahead to access public charging stations along the way if needed.

Battery lifespan

Another potential disadvantage to consider before you decide if an electric car is right for you is the battery lifespan. Over time, electric car batteries do degrade, which can reduce the car driving range available. Although most manufacturers do offer warranties for their batteries, the cost to replace a battery can, in some cases, cost more than simply replacing the car. A good way to get around this is to lease, rather than purchase, an electric car. This way, you can upgrade it every few years, before battery degradation becomes a concern.

A final work on electric cars

If you’re deciding whether to purchase or lease an electric car, consider both the pros and cons carefully. While an electric car can be a significant upfront investment, the long-term savings and environmental benefits can make them a very attractive option. Above all they are a sustainable option. Along with weighing up the pros and cons, it’s essential to consider your driving habits and journey needs. Also consider the suitability of your home for an electric car charger. You should also  research the availability of public chargers in your area.

Overall, the advantages of electric cars outweigh the drawbacks, but consider them all to make an informed decision.