After watching a video of another Tesla supercar presentation, one involuntarily thinks about transitioning from a traditional car to a technological and economical electric car. But is it really beneficial to use an electric-powered car in the conditions of Ukraine?
Advantages and Disadvantages of an Electric Car
Electric car salon Olmaks, based on their experience and customer feedback, has prepared a list of the most significant advantages and disadvantages that electric car owners discover during regular use. The advantages of such cars include:
- low cost per 1 km: dozens of times lower than using gasoline or even gas;
- pleasant driving experience: good acceleration, rapid speed gain, high controllability, single-pedal operation;
- better engine braking;
- high engine durability without major repairs;
- no exhaust gases and noise during operation.
The disadvantages of electric cars include:
- limited range on a single charge, mainly up to 200 km. More than 500 km only in very expensive models;
- low “refueling” speed. To preserve the battery, you need to charge the car from 3-4 to 7-8 hours;
- reduced battery performance in winter.
Maintenance Costs of an Electric Car
The main disadvantages of electric cars are related specifically to their batteries. This element can still be considered the weakest point since a breakthrough in energy storage has not yet occurred. In all other respects, an electric car is much more profitable than its gasoline or diesel counterpart for daily use. Cost reduction is associated with the following points:
- regular engine maintenance: replacing oil, filters, other consumables;
- purchase of expensive spare parts. For example, the “Turbomicron” service center noted that buying a turbine is sometimes cheaper than repairing it. And a new spare part is very expensive. However, electric car owners are simply not aware of this;
- fuel tank, which is the most significant saving.
The Most Terrifying Myths About Electric Cars
Although the electric car on Ukrainian roads no longer surprises anyone, it still remains a subject of debate, discussions, and speculation. For example, the 3 most “frightening” myths about electric cars look like this:
- the car is expensive. Yes, 10 years ago, an electric car was exclusively for those who could afford a premium segment car. Today, the cost of new models starts at $15,000. And Tesla is soon promising to release its own supercar for $25,000.
- simple device, which requires no maintenance. A car cannot be so simple that it doesn’t require any inspection. In an electric vehicle, you need to monitor the suspension, the condition of the splines on the shafts, and control any foreign sounds.
- takes a very long time to charge. Fast chargers can recharge up to 80% of the battery capacity in just 30 minutes. However, this affects the battery’s service life: due to charging with high current, it quickly reduces.
Overall, owning an electric car is profitable. The main thing is to use it correctly, regularly perform scheduled procedures, and monitor the battery’s health. If everything is done on time, the car will last much longer than the stated warranty period.