For people looking to buy a new car, an electric one may come up as an option. For some, the thought of an electric car is exciting and intriguing. For others, it’s less interesting. Some people think electric cars are the future. Others dread the day they give up their “muscle” in the form of a gas-powered engine.

 

No matter where you stand on this issue, considering electric is a smart move these days. Times are changing, and electric could be the future. But how do you know when it’s the right time to pull the trigger on electric?

 

Is It Time to Move to an Electric Car?

 

That’s where we come in. We detail some very good reasons to buy electric and why you shouldn’t. So, let’s dive in:

 

• Much Cheaper to Operate

 

The biggest benefit of electric cars is the cost of operation. Many drivers report saving nearly $10 per every 100 miles driven when compared to a traditional automobile. Over the course of 5-6 years, a typical lifespan for a car, this could save you up to $6,000 in operational costs.

 

• Cheaper Than Ever

 

Back in the day, electric cars were crazy expensive. For the price of an electric car, you could almost get a luxury car. Nowadays, these efficient autos are more reasonably priced. In fact, these cars have never been cheaper. If you were waiting to buy an electric car due to the price, there’s never been a better time to buy.

 

• Tax Credit Opportunities

 

One unique benefit of buying a new electric car is the tax credits. The government has incentivized buying electric and going green. You can get up to $7,500 in tax credits when you buy a new electric-powered car.

 

• Fewer Maintenance Issues

 

Electric vehicles break down significantly less than traditional cars. Why? Because electric cars are powered by batteries, and batteries have around 10-times fewer parts than a traditional motor. Batteries are simple machines while an engine is incredibly complex.

 

• Growing Infrastructure

 

In the early years, it was hard to find a place to charge your electric car once you were away from home. That has changed completely. Nowadays, you’ll find charging stations all over the United States. In fact, our country is completely wired to handle any, and all electric car charges as of now.

 

• Going Green

 

While electric vehicles are amazing for your operating budget, the cars also offer huge benefits to the environment. They significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, which leads to cleaner air for all involved.

 

So, Electric Vehicles Aren’t Perfect?

 

While there’s never been a better time to buy an electric auto, it should be noted that there are still issues, including:

 

• Charging Complications

 

While the charging infrastructure is in place, there’s still some confusion with the process. For example, one charging station may give you 15 miles of driving in one hour of charging. Another station could give you 180 miles in an hour.

 

You have to know which charging stations have a good reputation in your area and how to use them properly. The same goes with your home charging station.

 

• Too Many Apps

 

Electric charging stations can be found through apps on your smartphone. This is ideal, except for one small thing – these companies only put certain charging stations on their app. The app developers only place charging stations that pay them on their app. Thus, you’ll need at least a few apps to find every station in your area.

 

• Limited Range

 

If you can afford a Tesla, then this isn’t of concern. For the rest of us who want an electric car, the range should be a huge concern. Many of the popular models on the market can only go 85 or so miles without needing to be recharged.

 

• Costs

 

Certain electric car models have dropped dramatically in price. Still, to get an electric vehicle that compares to a gas model, you’ll be paying significantly more. Electric still carries a small premium in today’s car market.

 

The Reality of Electric Cars

 

Electric cars, pricing, and infrastructure have come a long, long way over the last few years. Tesla is making huge strides, and others in the industry are starting to pick up the slack. The next few years could see a huge change in the car industry if the electric autos can clear up their minor issues.

 

That being said – electric still has some issues to clear up. If they can tweak a few things here and there, then gas-powered cars have a huge issue in the coming years. While it may not be time to buy electric just yet, the time is coming.