The Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) provide many benefits both to drivers and the environment. As more consumers look toward sustainability in vehicles with minimal tailgate emissions and increased fuel efficiency, automakers are designing and making a wide range of electrified vehicles. To learn more about EV benefits, let’s explore this comprehensive guide our team at Kalispell Ford in Kalispell, Montana, has created.

What’s an EV?

a close up of an electric car charging  by Marek Studzinski is licensed with Unsplash License

An EV is a vehicle powered by electric motors without the use of an internal combustion engine. Charged batteries provide power to the motors rather than gasoline. Owners need to charge the batteries of their EV using an external electricity source that’s compatible with the cables and port of the vehicle. It’s possible to charge your EV using electricity at home or by using public charging stations located throughout the country.

Environmental and Health Advantages

According to the United States Department of Energy, EVs have zero tailpipe emissions, which may help reduce the effects of climate change. Another benefit of no tailpipe emissions is improved air quality. As more people and businesses switch from gas-powered vehicles to EVs, everyone will be able to benefit from cleaner air. Many people see healthier air as one of the major electric car benefits. By choosing an EV, you could have a part in enhancing the health of your community and our planet.

Economic and Maintenance Benefits

Due to manufacturing and materials costs, many EVs come with a higher MSRP than equivalent gas-powered models. However, check if your purchase qualifies for federal or state tax credits. Doing so can help lower the initial cost of your EV. EVs also have potential long-term savings benefits. Depending on the model you own, how you drive, and the average prices of fuel and electricity in your area, it’s possible to save money on your typical driving costs.

You can also save on maintenance costs when buying an EV. Cars with internal combustion engines (ICEs) require an enormous amount of maintenance due to the numerous mechanical components. When you have an EV, you don’t need oil changes, fuel injection replacement parts, cooling system flushes, or fuel and water pump replacements. While EVs still require some basic maintenance, such as tire rotations, battery inspections, and cabin filter replacements, the lower number of maintenance tasks typically makes EV maintenance less expensive than ICE vehicle maintenance.

Performance and Convenience Features

EV manufacturers don’t skimp on power, performance, comfort, and convenience. Many new EVs, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV, combine power with luxury. Business owners will appreciate the performance, cargo capacity, and technology features found in the Ford E-Transit van. Let’s explore more of the performance and convenience benefits EVs have to offer.

Torque and Towing

EVs have a surprising amount of torque. The Ford F-150 Lightning EV pickup truck with the extended battery range option has 580 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. This impressive torque rating lets the Lightning tow up to 7,700 pounds. Even with the standard range battery setup, the Lightning gets 452 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Technology and Connectivity

EVs are also included in the evolution of car technology features. In EVs, you’ll typically find cutting-edge infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, natural voice recognition, navigation, and crucial EV information displays. These features enable you to monitor your estimated driving range and, with the right apps, find the nearest public charging stations. Safety and driver-assistance technologies vary per make and model. Still, most modern EVs come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as precollision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a lane-keeping system.

Comfort and Convenience

As with traditional gas-powered vehicles, most EVs have premium interior features and comforts available as choices. For example, you’ll usually find options for more comfortable seating materials, heated and ventilated front seats, automatic climate control with air filtration systems, a power liftgate, and upgraded premium sound systems. In addition, at-home charging systems are becoming more advanced and easier to use, and the network of public charging stations with fast chargers is growing by the day.

Learn More About the Benefits of EVs

Ford is at the forefront of electrified vehicle production. Contact us at Kalispell Ford in Kalispell, Montana, to learn more about our lineup of electrified vehicles, ranging from the Mach-E SUV to the popular F-150 Lightning. Our team would be happy to discuss with you the many EV advantages and benefits. We offer flexible finance options to help you get behind the wheel of an electrified car, and our professional service technicians will help keep your EV running in top condition.