Electric Vehicles – also known as EVs – are gaining momentum as an option for vehicle buyers. From a Chevy Bolt to a Tesla Model 3, EVs are coming in more shapes, sizes and price points.

And with more options in the marketplace, more vehicle owners may be considering making the switch from gasoline to electric. If you’re considering buying an electric vehicle –or you’re curious about EVs – Jackson EMC can offer guidance.

• How far can I drive an EV? Most of today’s electric vehicles have a driving range-per-charge between 50-330 miles. If your daily commute is under 250 miles per day, there’s likely an affordable EV model to fit your needs. However, long-range road trips can be challenging for today’s EVs. While public charging infrastructure and battery technology are improving, long-range trips still require planning with an EV.
• What are the different types of EVs? Battery Electric Vehicle or All-Electric Vehicles (BEV or AEV) have a battery and an electric motor instead of a gas tank and an internal combustion engine. These vehicles run entirely on electricity. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) have an electric motor and a gas-powered internal combustion engine. PHEVs can be plugged in to charge the battery when the vehicle is not in use. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) have an electric motor and a gas-powered interna lcombustion engine and don’t plug-in forcharging. HEVs may be an ideal choice for those with extended commutes and limited charging system access.
• What maintenance does an EV require? EVs that are exclusively powered by electricity require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because there are fewer fluids — like oil and transmission fluid— to change and far fewer moving parts. EVs require minimal scheduled maintenance to their electricalsystems. EVs don’t require oil changes. They also don’t have spark plugs to be replaced or exhaust systems that may require repairs.
• What are the different chargers? EVs must charge through an electrical connection. There are three common categories of chargers: ACLevel 1, AC Level 2 and DC Fast. AC Level 1 chargers provide charging through a 120 VAC plug, most often used in home applications. A full charge may take up to 24 hours. AC Level 2 chargers provide charging through a240 V plug and requires installation by a qualified professional. Level 2 chargers are used in homes, workplaces and some public charging. Level 2 chargers typically deliver 10 to 60 miles of range per hour ofcharging. DC Fast chargers provide charging through 480 VAC input and requires specialized, high-powered equipment. DC Fast chargers a most often located in public charging stations, especially in high traffic corridors. DC Fast chargers can deliver 80% battery charge in 20-30 minutes of charging. EV charging times vary, based on the type of charger, type of battery, battery capacity, and whether the battery is depleted.
• What does it cost to buy an EV? The price of an EV depends on the make and model. Jackson EMC offers a comparison of price, range and battery capacity of EVs at jacksonemc.com/ev. Jackson EMC members may qualify for a rebate for purchasing AC Level 2 EV chargers. Jackson EMC also offers an EV rate. More information is available at jacksonemc.com/ev

Have more questions? Jackson EMC’s website offers several tools to membersi nterested in buying an EV, including a savings calculator and EV model reviewer. Visit jacksonemc.com/ev for details. To speak to one of our experts about buying an EV, call Jackson EMC at 1-800-462-3691.

Information provided by Choose EV