Understanding Electric Vehicles (EV)
EVs are the environmentally friendlier way to travel. With prices coming down, and petrol prices going up, it’s no surprise more Kiwis are making the change to EVs.
So what are EVs? Are they really cheaper to run than conventional cars? What’s the difference between hybrids and electric vehicles? And are there trade-offs when you go electric?
EVs looking like the way of the future. It’s clear that we need an alternative to fossil fuels. On top of that, New Zealand has a target to be carbon neutral by 2050 ie reducing Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net zero, and we want to do our part to help reach it.
Running our cars on fossil fuels is a huge part of our carbon footprint. As of May 2022, land transport accounts for about 47% of GHG emissions, 90% of which are from vehicles using our roads.
Electric vehicles look like the one of the answers to our future transport needs. They not only have reduced emissions but don’t have as much dependency on fossil fuels or the petrol station.
With more charging places popping up and technology getting better and better to improve travel times between charges, the time to look into electric vehicles is now!
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVS)
Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVS)
Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVS)
EV Charging
Charging at home
Owners of electric vehicles say they love plugging in their car at the end of the day instead of visiting a petrol station. You can get by with a standard power point, but you’ll get faster charging with a wall-mounted charger.
Charging somewhere else
EVs and PHEVs usually have a portable charging kit that plugs in to a standard power point. They’re ideal when you’re travelling or need a bit of a top-up at a friend’s house.
Charging at a station
There’s now a strong national network of charging stations which is continuously growing. They all have fast chargers that can give you approximately an extra 100km of range in about 25 minutes. That makes them a perfect excuse for a break on a long trip.
EV Costs
What are the costs to consider?
When looking into the cost of an EV or any car, it’s important to consider not just the initial cost of the vehicle but how much it costs to run and maintain it.
EV Rebates
Along with the costs to buy and run an EV, you should be aware of what rebates are available.
Understanding what cars qualify for the rebate and the incentives should play a part in the decision making process.
NZ Clean Car Discount
The government is currently offering discounts here in New Zealand to achieve lower CO2 emissions. Find out if your car will qualify for this discount and how to apply.