PEIL WIN20

Electric vehicles (EVs) can not only reduce your carbon emissions, but also save you money. Electric cars once seemed like a pipe dream for many Islanders. High purchasing costs and few public charging stations made these expensive vehicles impractical and inaccessible for a number of drivers. But with used EVs now on the market for purchase, and EV chargers popping up all across the Island, these innovative vehicles are quickly becoming a feasible option for the eco-conscious consumer. So, what makes EVs a great choice? Well, to start, you can “fill up” at home. By installing an EV charger at home, you’ll never be sitting with a low tank. And the cost to charge your battery, versus fill up a tank of gas, is remarkably lower—which offers drivers daily savings.

But just how long does one charge last? EVs can travel at least 200 kilometres on a single charge, with many models offering an even farther range. With at least five charge points in Charlottetown, one in Summerside, and more on the way, there’s no need to panic over long treks to the city. With fewer moving parts, electric vehicles also require less maintenance. No more oil changes—your only regular maintenance is your brakes, which also tend to last longer than their gas-powered equivalents. And you’ll never hear a sound; electric vehicles are virtually silent. You’ll be amazed to find that the only noise coming from your vehicle is the air conditioner or car stereo system.

What about the price of purchase? It’s dramatically

decreased as well. EV pricing is now comparable to gas-powered

vehicles, with a new model costing $29,000 and up.

With so much to consider when buying a new vehicle, why not consider your carbon footprint as well?

WINTER 2020 www.pei-living.ca

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