The pros
Cheaper to run
An EV runs on a battery, which needs charging. You can charge your EV at home, and pay for it in your power bill. Even if you recharge at a specialist charge station, the cost is far lower than the price of petrol.
Cheaper to maintain
Because EVs don’t have the many moving parts that petrol cars require, ongoing maintenance is much less. No oil changes, no valve replacements, no pump breakdowns, no spark plugs.
Better for the environment
An EV has no carbon emissions, while a petrol-driven vehicle can emit 4.5 metric tonnes a year. Even better, 80% of New Zealand’s electricity comes from renewable power. That makes running an EV in New Zealand even more environmentally friendly than in most other countries. Even factoring for manufacturing and battery disposal, EVs are still by far and away the better choice, environmentally speaking.
Smooth, quiet efficiency
You’ll be amazed how smoothly and quietly an EV drives. Also, an electric motor reacts more quickly than a petrol one, with better braking response. Plus, unlike petrol cars, you don’t use more power stopping and starting.
The cons
Limited range
Most EVs have limited-range batteries, making longer trips a challenge. However, companies are offering better range in newer models, Tesla leading the way with a 600km battery in its long-range sedan. With the affordability of shorter-range EVs, and the growing NZ charge-station infrastructure, limited-range batteries look like less and less of a problem.
Finding a charging station
For around-town driving your home-charging is fine, and you should spot the charge stations in your neighbourhood in case you get caught out. For a longer trip, locate available charge stations on your route. In New Zealand, more fast-charge stations are being installed, and a longer trip is certainly possible with a little planning.
Waiting to charge
Fully charging your EV at home can take up to eight hours, so it’s best to do it overnight. Fast-charging gives a battery up to 80% capacity in 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry this may not be ideal, but it’s good to take a break when driving long distances. While your EV is charging, have lunch!
Expensive to buy
While this is still true, more mid-price EVs are coming on the market to meet growing demand. Plus, enough time has gone by for second-hand EVs to be available. But if you’re wanting a Tesla, Jaguar or Porsche EV, be prepared for a hefty price-tag.
Replacing the battery
At least once in the life of your EV, you will probably need to replace the battery pack. These specialist batteries are not cheap, but prices are coming down as EVs get more common.
Do your EV homework
After studying the pros and cons, you may be convinced that an EV is the way to go. Do more research – find out what’s available right now, decide what you’re willing to spend, and plot the growing fast-charge infrastructure both nearby and across New Zealand.
Happy sustainable driving!