25 July 2023
If your vehicle is up for renewal, it’s time to consider upgrading, but how do you choose from a wide range of options? There are many elements that influence your decision when choosing a car, whether it be the make, model, or style. In recent years, considering fueltype has become a determining factor when choosing your vehicle, and rightly so.
There are many options of eco-friendly engine types on the road today, such as mild hybrids, full hybrids and plug-in hybrids, which successfully serve as a sensible halfway point between petrol or diesel engines and fully electric vehicles.
It has been a long time coming, but our streets are now awash with the quiet hum of Electric Vehicles. Like any major adjustment in the automotive world, there has been much speculation surrounding the new fuel type. At Towbar Express, we can offer advice and support on your decision to swap your vehicle and change up your fuel type.
There are many aspects to consider when deciding whether an Electric Vehicle (EV) is the right choice for you. The swap from a typical diesel or petrol car to an EV may feel daunting, so it’s important that you consider the pros and cons.
3 Advantages of an Electric Vehicle
There are several reasons why switching to electric could be the right decision for you, many of which have already been recognised by hundreds of commuters who have already swapped fossil fuels for alternative energy.
1. Reduce Carbon Footprint
Arguably the biggest attribute of an electric vehicle is the significant reduction of your carbon footprint. Where fossil fuels emit more greenhouse gasses into the earth’s atmosphere, EVs can be powered using renewable energy, such as solar panels.
2. Reduce Fuel Bills
Combining renewable sources (i.e., solar panels) with your EV can also considerably reduce the costs of charging your vehicle at home, making the EV cost-effective and eco-friendly. The Zappi charger from Myenergi is the perfect example of a home charging system that utilises renewable energy where accessible, as well as energy from the grid. Learn more information about the Zappi charger today.
3. Improved Driving Performance
Other advantages of switching to an EV include driving performance, which has vastly improved due to the development of new technologies. The mileage has also progressed over the years too, with some EVs benefitting from a range of over 450 miles.
If that’s not enough to secure your decision, you may also be eligible for a Government Grant, a financial contribution to encourage people to reduce their carbon footprint.
Disadvantages of an Electric Vehicle
To ensure that you are making the right decision for you and your lifestyle, it is equally important to consider the potential disadvantages of switching to an Electric Vehicle.
Small Number of Public Charging Points
At this moment in time, public charging points in rural areas may be sparse. Remember to check your closest public charging point if this will be your main energy source. Another point to consider is a home charging point. If you live in a terraced building, flat or have no access to a private parking space, you may not be able to have a charging point installed at your home.
However, many EV providers have noticed these problems, and an influx of public charging points is now being distributed throughout more rural areas. Problematic private charging points have also been noted, and EV charging points can be mounted away from buildings using a pedestal. You can find out more information about your charging point options by speaking to our knowledgeable customer service team.
Upfront Cost
The initial up-front costs of purchasing an EV vehicle may seem higher than that of a standard vehicle. However, remember that running costs can be substantially lower than alternative fuel types. The Government grants and incentives may help you with the lump sum required to get your car on the road.
So, should you get an electric vehicle?
Ultimately the decision as to whether an EV is right for you should be based on your lifestyle, finances, and requirements from a car. Your surroundings should play a big part in your decision. Think about your location, the location of charging points, whether your workplace has charging points and how much you would benefit financially over a longer period.
A factor to consider when making your decision may be the larger outlook of the automotive industry. The Government plans to end the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, which may greatly affect traditional car sales.
What to consider before buying an electric vehicle
It’s important to check that an Electric Vehicle will suit your lifestyle, so there are several points to consider before purchasing.
Access to Charging Points
Firstly, consider how you will charge your EV, whether at a public charging point close by or on your own property. Make sure that you have easy access to a charging point before purchasing your Electric Vehicle so that it doesn’t interfere with your daily commute.
Increased Bills & Costs
If you plan on installing a charging point on your home, remember to consider the potential rise in your utility bills too. Calculate these additional costs and compare them to your usual monthly budget. Can you comfortably afford the increase? Remember to check whether you are entitled to any Government incentive schemes to reduce the initial cost of the purchase.
Your Requirements
Be sure to look into the different types of EVs and consider whether the vehicle is suitable for your requirements. For example, if you have a larger family and you travel longer distances, will the additional weight and long journeys affect the range of the electric vehicle?
Towing with an Electric Vehicle
If you intend to use your electric vehicle to tow, you must investigate the vehicle’s towing ability before purchasing. The towing capacityof any vehicle can be found on the vehicle’s VIN plate, which is normally located on the inside doorframe. Use our handy guide to help you locate your VIN plate.
If your vehicle has a towing capacity, consider whether it is enough to tow what you intend. As a rule, the towing capacities of electricvehicles are considerably lower than those of petrol or diesel, so it’s important to check you can tow your items before making the switch.
Lastly, research how the range may vary when you’re hitched up and towing. The additional weight of the item will adjust the range of mileage that the vehicle can cover and may affect your plans.
Getting behind the wheel of an Electric Vehicle
Once you’ve considered all the pros and cons of owning an Electric Vehicle, your purchase will provide a smooth, quiet and eco-friendly journey each and every day.
Towbar Express can assist with the purchase and installation of your Zappi charging unit, saving you money each month by utilising renewable energy and using less electricity from the grid.
Suppose you do decide to use your vehicle to tow. In that case, you must enlist the assistance of a well-known and reputable company to install your Towbar to allow you to travel without a hitch. Head to our user-friendly website for an instant quotation by inputting your registration and postcode.
If you’d prefer to speak to one of our knowledgeable advisors, our customer service team are on hand from 9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday to answer any questions you may have.
