Electric cars: Is it time?

Electric cars have always been a point of contention between motor owners. But with recent news of the EU government agreeing to ban the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2040, more and more people's interest is being piqued by the thought of an EV vehicle sooner rather than later.

In fact, in 2021, electric cars made up an impressive 11.6% of all new cars sold, nearly double the 6.6% in the year prior.

This increase in popularity comes twofold, firstly from the vehicles becoming far more accessible, coupled with the worry of increasing fuel prices and the eventuality that it will one day run out entirely.

As a result, more and more car brands are jumping on the bandwagon with new and better EVs being released every year in order to get their foot in this now hugely popular market. With an ever-growing range to choose from, is it time to consider getting one?

Benefits of an electric car:

Lower running costs

Despite their higher upfront price tag, owning an electric car is a long term investment as they offer huge savings in running costs. The average petrol or diesel car owner spends in the region of £1500 per year on fuel alone. This value doesn't include vehicle and road tax which electric cars also boast a reduced rate. As well as this, if you own an EV and live in London, you are even exempt from congestion charges.

Sustainable

It's no secret that climate change is a considerable threat to us and our planet. If you're somebody who wants to reduce their environmental impact on the world, an electric car is an eco-friendly alternative that has zero emissions, so do not contribute to the greenhouse gasses that are significant causes of global warming.

As electricity is renewable and can be produced through wind, solar or water power, we could start to see a serious difference in the impact pollution has on the globe if electric cars are embraced into the mainstream.

Accessible chargers

With the surge of EVs on the roads, there has also been an influx in electric chargers installed across the country, making long trips more practical as you don't need to worry about the battery as much.

As well as this, many homeowners now have charging stations installed in their homes to allow them to charge their cars overnight directly from the mains, ensuring they always have a full charge the next day. This home charging prevents the need to regularly travel to a petrol station, saving you valuable time.

Reduced maintenance

When you have a regular petrol or diesel car, not only do you have to frequently fill up the tank, but you'll also need to change the oils, filter, and other frequent maintenance that can be frustrating and costly. There is no need for any upkeep like this for electric cars, and as they are a modern invention, they are also less likely to require repairs.

Ultimately, it will depend on your budget and car usage habits to determine whether getting an electric car is right for you. Hopefully, the benefits outlined above can give you some good reasons as to why it might be the right time to invest in an electric car.

If you're still uncertain, a hybrid could be a great compromise and an ideal stepping stone from a standard car to an electric model, offering a large portion of the benefits you get with an EV without the price tag.