How do owners feel?
Learn from other EV-type owners what it was like to make the switch from gas to an EV. What surprised them about their first EV? How has owning an EV impacted their daily lives? What advice do they have for potential EV owners?
What's great about owning an EV?
Acceleration is instantaneous and consistent—constant acceleration on curves
Acceleration is smooth and fast
"It doesn't zoom - it whooshes!"
- 2012 Nissan Leaf (BEV) owner
No tailpipe emissions
BEVs are quieter on the highway than gas-powered cars
Charging at home is like having a gas station in your garage
You can watch movies, read, or take care of business while it charges
BEVs with "pet mode" keep the AC on while you run errands
Experiencing instant heat on cold days
Impromptu road trips are no problem for HEVs and PHEVs
"Errands around town are all on electric, but roadtrips to see family are gas... it's the best of both worlds"
- 2023 Volvo V60 Recharge (PHEV) owner
For PHEVs and HEVs, reduced trips to the gas station
"Less trips to the pump. Conserving gas in these times is important to us"
- 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (HEV) owner
Extra storage! With no engine, many BEVs have additional cargo space up front
"I have a trunk within a trunk in the back (think no gas tank taking up room) and a frunk! I have more cargo space than I will ever need"
- 2021 Tesla Model 3 (BEV) owner
What's unexpected about owning an EV?
One-pedal driving takes practice (but you get used to it)
"Braking takes some getting used to but once there you enjoy it"
- 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E (BEV) owner
Range can vary based on outside temperatures
"You lose some range in cold weather"
- 2020 Tesla Model Y (BEV) owner
It's better to regularly charge to 80% than 100%, except for road trips
Without engine noise, you hear new noises, like tires and wind
It makes new noises, like whining from the electric motor
Since my EV is so quiet, I noticed they added an ethereal sound that plays during reverse. It's peaceful.
What's the downside to owning an EV?
For BEVs, road trips need a lot more planning
"Does require planning when traveling long distance as one has to plan for stops to charge the car regularly"
- 2019 Tesla Model S (BEV) owner
Tires wear out faster because EVs are heavier
Accelerated speeds on the highway can reduce range
Unexpected trips can be a hassle when low on charge
Auto insurance costs more for BEVs, and there can be special registration fees
When public charging stations have lines or are out of order
The views and opinions expressed above are those of vehicle owners (interviewed by CarMax) and do not necessarily reflect the position of CarMax.
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