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Electric Cars: What You Don’t See Can Cost You

electric car

You’ll have seen the adverts and heard the hubbub online — electric cars are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide as people become more aware of their environmental benefits and low operating costs. They emit no greenhouse gases and require less maintenance compared to traditional cars. So for the environmentally conscious consumer — they’re a surefire thing.

However, there are some hidden costs associated with electric cars that many people don’t see upfront. If you have been considering investing in an electronic car, you’ve come to the right place. 

While the merits of owning an eco-friendly car can outweigh the cons, it’s important to research the subject from every angle. So, today we’ll explore some of these hidden costs and how they can impact your wallet in the long run.

Upfront Costs

The first and most obvious cost associated with electric cars is their upfront price. Electric cars are generally more expensive than their traditional counterparts due to the cost of battery technology. However, keep in mind that this cost has been steadily decreasing over the years as battery technology improves and becomes more accessible.

Charging Infrastructure

The second hidden cost of owning an electric car is the cost of charging infrastructure. Although most electric car owners charge their vehicles at home, they still need to install a charging station — which can cost you several thousand dollars! If you live in an apartment or have limited access to charging stations, you may have to pay for public charging, which can quickly add up over time.

Range Anxiety

One of the biggest concerns for electric car owners is range anxiety. Electric cars have a limited range compared to traditional cars, and you need to plan your trips accordingly. Although the range is increasing with new models, it’s still not as convenient as traditional cars. If you need to travel long distances, or if you’re a fan of road trips — you’ll need to plan in advance for charging stops and factor in the time it takes to charge your vehicle.

Battery Replacement

Another hidden cost of electric cars is battery replacement. Electric car batteries have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. The cost of battery replacement can be significant, ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the make and model of your car.

Depreciation

Electric cars also have higher depreciation rates than traditional cars. This is due to the rapid pace of technological advancements in electric cars — the world of electronic cars is ever-evolving — which means that newer models quickly become outdated. Additionally, the battery is a significant component of an electric car’s value, and as it degrades over time, the car’s resale value decreases.

Maintenance Costs

Although electric cars require less maintenance than traditional cars, they still have maintenance costs that are often overlooked. For example, electric cars require regular battery maintenance, which can be expensive. Additionally, electric cars have complex systems that require specialized training and equipment, which can drive up the cost of maintenance. You might need to seek out a specialized garage to help with your vehicle.

Insurance Costs

Lastly, electric cars can have higher insurance costs than traditional cars. This is because electric cars are still a relatively new technology, and insurance companies don’t have as much data to base their premiums on. Additionally, the cost of repairs for electric cars can be higher, which can also drive up insurance costs.

Conclusion

Electric cars are an excellent choice for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on operating costs. You may even be eligible for a rebate for buying an energy efficient motor.

However, it’s important to consider the hidden costs of electric cars, such as upfront costs, charging infrastructure, range anxiety, battery replacement, depreciation, maintenance costs, and insurance costs. By understanding these hidden costs, you can make an informed decision about whether an electric car is right for you.

If you enjoyed this and you’d like to hear about some of the pros of electric vehicles — of which there are many! — check out our other article: Five Reasons to Buy an Electric Vehicle.