Buying Your First EV

Frequently asked questions around buying your first EV

If you're in the market for a new vehicle and considering electric vehicles (EVs) as an option, you've come to the right Oconomowoc car dealer. EVs offer people a wealth of advantages compared to traditional gas-powered cars, including lower emissions, greater range on a single charge, quieter running engines and more efficient use of energy. In addition to these benefits, purchasing an EV is becoming easier than ever before with advances in technology making them more accessible than ever. Ewald Auto will explore everything from how EVs work and how they compare to gasoline powered cars, to tips for buyers looking at getting their first EV. Whether you're completely new to the world of electric vehicles or just researching your options prior to purchase– our selection of electric cars for sale has something for everyone!

How far can I drive on a single charge?

The range of an electric vehicle (EV) on a single charge can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, the battery capacity, the driving conditions, and the use of energy-intensive features such as heating or air conditioning.

As a rough estimate, most modern electric cars near you have a range of around 200-400 miles on a single charge, although some newer models can go even further. For example, the Tesla Model S Long Range Plus has a range of up to 402 miles.

It's important to keep in mind that range estimates are often based on ideal conditions, and real-world driving conditions can significantly reduce the range of an EV. Factors such as driving at high speeds, using energy-intensive features, and driving in hot or cold weather can all reduce the range of an EV.

It's always a good idea to research the range of a specific electric car for sale and read reviews from other owners to get a better understanding of what to expect in real-world conditions.

How long does it take to charge an EV?

The time it takes to charge an electric car for sale can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, the battery capacity, the charging system being used, and the charging speed.

At home, most EVs can be charged overnight using a Level 1 charger, which is typically a 120-volt outlet. This type of charging is slow, and it can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours to fully charge a depleted battery.

Level 2 charging, which is available at public charging stations and can also be installed in your home, provides faster charging speeds. With Level 2 charging, you can typically expect to charge an EV battery from 0 to 80% in about 4-6 hours, although the exact time will vary depending on the vehicle and charging speed.

DC fast charging is the quickest charging option, and it can provide a substantial charge in just 30 minutes to an hour. However, not all EVs are compatible with DC fast charging, and the availability of fast-charging stations can vary depending on your location.

It's important to keep in mind that charging an EV takes longer than refueling a gasoline vehicle, and planning your charging needs can be a key consideration when owning an EV. However, most EV owners find that they only need to charge their vehicles once a week or so, since they typically do most of their driving in the city, where the battery can be recharged through regenerative braking.

What is the cost of charging an EV compared to fueling a gasoline vehicle?

The cost of charging an electric car for sale is typically much lower than the cost of fueling a gasoline vehicle.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average cost of electricity in the United States is about $0.13 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Using this as a rough estimate, it would cost about $5 to $10 to fully charge an average EV, which has a battery capacity of around 60 kWh.

In contrast, the cost of gasoline can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the price of crude oil, taxes, and regional supply and demand. It's important to keep in mind that the cost of charging an electric SUV for sale can vary greatly depending on your location, the cost of electricity, and the type of charging system you use. However, in general, charging an electric truck is much cheaper than fueling a gasoline vehicle, and many EV owners find that they save hundreds of dollars per year on fuel costs.

What kind of range can I expect in cold weather?

The range of an electric car for sale can be impacted by cold weather, as the battery's performance can be reduced in low temperatures.

Typically, you can expect an EV's range to decrease by 10-20% in cold weather, although the exact impact will vary depending on a number of factors, including the make and model of the vehicle, the battery capacity, and the temperature outside.

In extremely cold weather, the range reduction can be more pronounced, as the battery has to work harder to power the vehicle and maintain cabin comfort. Additionally, the use of heating and other electrical systems can also impact the range, as they draw power from the battery.

To mitigate the impact of cold weather on your EV's range, you can take a few steps, such as using seat heaters instead of the cabin heating system, using eco-driving techniques to conserve energy, and keeping your battery at a healthy state of charge.

People also ask the following questions about buying your first EV

Is it possible to charge an EV at home?

Yes, it is possible to charge an electric vehicle (EV) at home. Most EVs come with a charging cable that can be plugged into a standard 110-volt household outlet, which is known as Level 1 charging. This type of charging is slow and can take several hours to fully charge an EV, but it's convenient and can be done overnight.

If you want faster charging, you can install a Level 2 charging station at home, which requires a dedicated 240-volt electrical circuit. Level 2 charging is much faster than Level 1 charging, and can typically charge an EV in 4-8 hours, depending on the battery capacity and the charging speed of the vehicle.

Some affordable electric cars also come with DC fast charging capabilities, which allow you to charge the battery to 80% in just 30 minutes to an hour, but this type of charging requires a specialized charging station and is not typically available for home use. Learn more about your home charging installation options today at our car dealer near you!

What is the driving experience like in an EV?

The driving experience in an electric car for sale is often quite different from that of a gasoline-powered vehicle. EVs are typically quieter, smoother, and offer instant torque, which means that acceleration is often brisk and responsive.

Since there is no engine noise, EVs are much quieter inside the cabin, which can create a more peaceful and relaxed driving experience. The lack of vibration and the smooth operation of the electric motor also contributes to the smooth and refined driving experience.

Another advantage of EVs is that they have a single-speed transmission, which means that there are no gears to shift, and the acceleration is smooth and linear. This can make for a more relaxed and stress-free driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Additionally, electric SUVs for sale offer a unique driving experience because they are powered by electricity, which means that there are no emissions or pollutants generated while driving. This can make for a greener and more sustainable driving experience, and many EV owners find that they enjoy the feeling of driving a vehicle that has a positive impact on the environment.

What is the warranty coverage for an EV?

Warranty coverage for electric cars for sale is typically provided by the manufacturer and is similar to the warranty coverage offered for gasoline-powered vehicles.

Most affordable electric cars come with a comprehensive warranty that covers the battery pack, electric motor, and other components that are specific to the electric powertrain. The battery warranty typically covers the replacement or repair of the battery pack if it fails due to a manufacturing defect. Some manufacturers offer battery warranties that are good for 8 years or more and cover a certain number of battery capacity drops to a certain percentage.

In addition to the powertrain warranty, most electric trucks for sale also come with a basic warranty that covers the rest of the vehicle, including the body, suspension, and other components. The basic warranty usually lasts for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

It's important to note that the warranty coverage for EVs can vary depending on the manufacturer and the model, so it's a good idea to research the specific warranty coverage offered by the manufacturer of the EV you are considering before you make a purchase. The staff at our Oconomowoc car dealer will be happy to fill you in on the warranty programs for the EV of your interest.

In general, the warranty coverage for EVs is similar to that of gasoline-powered vehicles, and many manufacturers offer long-term coverage for the battery pack and other components that are specific to the electric powertrain. This can provide peace of mind and help to ensure that your EV remains reliable and cost-effective to own over the long term.

What is the resale value of an EV compared to a gasoline vehicle?

The resale value of an electric car for sale compared to a gasoline vehicle can depend on a number of factors, including the make and model, the age and condition of the vehicle, and the demand for EVs in the used car market.

In general, EVs tend to have higher resale values than gasoline vehicles, due to their advanced technology, increasing demand, and the fact that the battery pack is typically covered by the manufacturer's warranty for several years. This can make EVs a more attractive option for used car buyers, as they can be confident that the battery pack is less likely to experience problems, even as the vehicle ages.

However, the resale value of an EV can also be affected by factors such as the overall condition of the vehicle, the number of miles it has been driven, and its maintenance history. If an EV has been well-maintained and is in good condition, it is likely to retain its value better than a similar gasoline vehicle.

It's also worth noting that the demand for EVs is increasing, which can help to boost their resale value. As more and more consumers become aware of the benefits of driving an EV, the market for used EVs is likely to grow, which could help to support higher resale values in the future.