The first small scale electric vehicles came to market in the 1900s. It’s only been in the last two decades, however, that consumers have been ditching gas vehicles for their electric counterparts. Modern EVs were initially characterized as not worth the gas savings by most industry pundits. Today, with inflation and gas prices at all-time highs, EVs are steadily becoming viable, cost-effective options for consumers looking to save on travel costs.
Moving in turn with industry demand, traditional big name auto manufacturers now have several EV models represented within their fleet—whereas some, like Volvo, intend to go all electric.
It’s safe to say electric vehicles are the future of the auto industry with what is now the beginning of the end of the combustion engine era.
Therefore, if you’re considering getting an EV, now is probably the best time to get behind the wheel of one. Here’s why.
Considering Electric? It’s probably cheaper
The price of gas has gone up every year and it will only continue to do so. Let’s face it, gas will never be as cheap as it was when you were growing up.
EVs on the other hand have only gotten cheaper and competitive between auto manufacturers has created more market competition and a range of models consumers can choose from. Gone are the days where it took a $100k to get into a Tesla. With the Model S, getting into a Tesla is almost the same price as getting into a Toyota or Honda mid-sedan.
Government rebates only add to the savings of going electric with both provincial and federal programs available:
- Government of B.C.'s CleanBC Go Electric incentive program
- Transport Canada's Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEV) incentive program
SCRAP-IT, a B.C. program that offers incentives to scrap high-polluting vehicles when you buy a new or used EV or also makes it easier for consumers to make the transition.
Savings Costs Overview BC for Electric Vehicles
EVs also have far fewer moving mechanical parts than gas-powered vehicles thereby reducing the probability of mechanical issues and visits to the repair shop. EVs also function differently than gas-powered cars. For example, EVs incorporate regenerative braking, which reduces the usage of the car’s brakes. Anecdotal evidence from drivers suggests those friction brakes can last up to 300,000 km or more before being replaced.
You can also expect less oil changes. A Canadian EV cost study published in September 2018 concluded that on average, there was a 47% maintenance cost savings for EVs over gas-powered cars.
Making a greener choice
In full electric mode, an EV produces no tailpipe emissions. This means less smog and greenhouse gas.
What would happen if all cars on the road were electric. This infographic from Thomson Reuters provides an illustration of this transition: 
Convinced to go electric? Need to get rid of your current gas-powered ride?
We can help. Autozen has helped thousands of consumers sell their current used cars so that they can get into something new. If you have a gas-powered car and want to know how much you would get for it check out our online valuator at www.autozen.com. If the price is right, we’ll also sell your car for you, including inspection and pick-up right from your home.
