Battery Electric
Fully electric cars offer the smallest environmental footprint and the biggest savings on maintenance and fuel.
UNDERSTANDING EVS
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive, cheaper and easier to maintain than gas-powered vehicles, and contribute fewer emissions into the air. With tax incentives available and a fast-growing network of charging stations, find out if owning an EV is the right choice for you.
Which EV is Right for Me?
Plug-in Hybrid
Plug-in hybrids have a rechargeable electric motor and a gas-powered engine to extend range if needed.
Traditional Hybrid
Powered by an electric motor and gas-powered engine, Hybrids recharge as you drive. Tax credits and other benefits may not apply.
Benefits of Plugging In
Federal Tax Credit
A federal tax credit of up to $7,500 may be available on eligible EV models.
Local Incentives
Additional incentives may be available from your state and/or utility company.
Low Cost to Own
EV owners may spend less on maintenance and repair over time (Consumer Reports).
Fuel Up At Home
Charge while you sleep, work, or at a growing number of public chargers.
Quick and Quiet
Enjoy fast and smooth acceleration, better handling, and a quieter ride.
Best of Both Worlds
Plug-in hybrids provide electric range for short trips and gas-power for longer journeys.
OWNING AN EV
UNDERSTANDING CHARGING
Charging times vary depending on the type of charger used.
Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 2-5 miles of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plug-in hybrid vehicles but not battery electric vehicles.
Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 10-20 miles of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 60-80 miles of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
CHARGING FROM HOME
For plug-in hybrid vehicles, a standard outlet (Level 1) will be enough for overnight charging. For battery electric vehicles, a Level 2 charger will require professional installation by a licensed electrician. If you live in an apartment or condo, consider talking with the property owner about installing a charger or use a nearby public charger. Talk to our sales staff to find out more about charging from home.
BATTERY CARE
Many EV batteries can last 100,000 to 200,000 miles when properly cared for. As battery technology continues to advance, longevity may improve. If you can keep your battery between 20% and 80% charged most days and avoid extreme heat, you may reduce long-term maintenance needs.
CHARGING STATIONS NEAR Willis Lexus
COMMON QUESTIONS
WHAT CREDITS AND INCENTIVES ARE AVAILABLE?
A federal tax credit of up to $7,500 may be available on select EV models for eligible purchasers. Depending on where you live, state and local rebates and incentives may also be available. Check with your sales associate to confirm eligibility and availability for a specific model.
WHAT OTHER PERKS ARE AVAILABLE?
Other advantages of owning an EV include:
- Eligible EVs may also qualify for HOV lane access, which is normally restricted to vehicles with multiple passengers.
- Many electric companies offer lower rates based on the time of use. With EVs, you can save money by charging during off-peak times.
- If you're able to charge at work or home, there's usually no need to stop to refuel like you would in a gas-powered vehicle.
- EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, resulting in cleaner air and better health.
HOW MUCH CAN I REDUCE MY FUEL COSTS?
This will vary depending on the local price of electricity and gas and where you are charging (at home or public charger), but many EV owners may see lower fueling costs compared to a similar gasoline-powered vehicle.
Source: Benjamin Preston. October 08, 2020. EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars.
https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/
HOW MUCH WILL I SAVE ON MAINTENANCE?
A recent Consumer Reports study found “maintenance and repair costs for EVs are significantly lower over the life of the vehicle – about half – than for gasoline–powered vehicles, which require regular fluid changes and are more mechanically complex.”
Source: Benjamin Preston. October 08, 2020. EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars.
https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/
HOW MUCH RANGE DO I NEED?
Gas-powered vehicles offer a range of 300–400 mi. Battery-electric vehicles offer a median range of 250 mi. For EV owners who charge at home, this is more than enough for daily use. For longer drives beyond your vehicle’s range, check a public charging map for charger availability along your route.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CHARGE?
- Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 2–5 miles of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plug-in hybrid vehicles but not battery-electric vehicles.
- Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 10–20 miles of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all day is possible.
- Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 60–80 miles of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
CAN I CHARGE AT HOME?
Yes, Level 1 and Level 2 chargers can be used at home. In fact, the standard 120V outlet supports a Level 1 charger. Level 2 chargers require 240V and can be installed by a licensed electrician. If you do not own your home, you may need to work with your property owner to install a Level 2 charger.
HOW LONG DOES THE BATTERY LAST?
Most batteries will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles when properly cared for. With battery technology continually advancing, that number should continue to increase.
