Are Electric Cars Worth It Yet?

3 minute read

So, I’m planning to lease my next car in the next 2 years and I like alot of other folks wonder about going electric. Part of me just wants to YOLO this decision, as we all just live once.

Data says that EVs are improving.

Range anxiety, there’s a dirty word. It’s been something that held back adoption for lots of folks. I’ll admit it’s been a factor for me too. Granted, most new BEVs (battery electric vehicles) can do around 300+ miles these days. Anything under that range feels like last gen to me. Charging infrastructure? I wish it was better but granted a lot of cars are moving to the Tesla NACS connector which is great. Means those superchargers become an option. My weekly range would be around 300 or less miles and with a home charger, I’d be all set.

Let’s talk options

Tesla still leads in tech and charging infrastructure, but they’re not your only choice anymore. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a solid SUV and it’s been on my shortlist for a while. I love the outside design, but the interior just doesn’t “speak” to me. I’ve heard that Hyundai has been quietly killing it with the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Alot of people talk about value and quick charging, but personally the styling of that brand doesn’t ring any bells for us. Gotta love choices and competition!

For big spenders there’s the Porsche Taycan which is sooo nice to drive but pricey unless you try to lease a certified pre-owned CPO one. Yes, that’s another one on my list. Mercedes false started with the EQS and EQE that folks called a “melted jelly bean” design. The cool thing is they’re now doubling down with the new electric CLA and other models coming soon. This puts them on “the list” as well. So, its a crowded field to say the least.

Yes, the political landscape around EVs is sadly still a thing

Yes, tax credits are toast. Tariffs are there, but might be gone someday. Some states are more supportive than others. Don’t let that noise scare you off. Every major automaker is at least trying to go electric to some degree. Yes, some have scaled back shifted to include hybrid models. Gas stations aren’t disappearing tomorrow, and they probably never will, but this is your decision to make about what works best for you.

The practical benefits are real

Lower fuel costs. Way less maintenance (no oil changes, fewer brake jobs). Instant torque that makes every stoplight feel like a drag race. Yes, EVs do go through tires faster because of the extra battery weight, but that’s a minor trade-off. Most people who switch don’t go back unless they made a real bad choice to begin with, like living in an apartment with ZERO ways to charge at home.

If you need a car in the next two years and you can charge at home or work, buy the electric. The technology is ready. The options are good. The experience is better. Stop overthinking it and make the jump. You’ll probably wonder why you waited so long.

And if you really need a hand to understand EVs, there’s always the classic Electric Cars for Dummies 😉

Want to read more about EVs?

• 
  EV or Hybrid? I’m Still Working Through It
• 
  Are Electric Cars Worth It Yet?