Are EVs Good First Cars?

The makeup of America's roads is changing. Electric vehicles (EVs) have enjoyed a surge in popularity over recent years. More drivers are opting for these eco-friendly vehicles, and there's a big push in the automotive industry to embrace electric.

With EVs becoming a staple in the marketplace, it raises an important question for new drivers — are EVs good first cars? This guide will explore the advantages and different considerations when choosing an electric car as your first car.

Understanding EVs

EVs are an alternative to traditional, gasoline-powered vehicles. Unlike cars with internal combustion engines, EVs use an electric motor powered by a high-voltage battery pack. Drivers don't refuel EVs by going to a gas pump — instead, they plug their car into a charging station, either at home or publicly. By not relying on gasoline, EVs don't have the same polluting tailpipe emissions as traditional vehicles.

The Rising Popularity of EVs as First Cars for New Drivers

The electric car market is enjoying a boom. With each generation of EVs, the technology underpinning them becomes more refined, and the vehicles perform better. Rather than being an alternative to gas-powered cars for environmentally conscious drivers, EVs are becoming the first choice for new motorists.

Sales figures support this, with EV sales in the United States surging from 1 million in 2022 to 1.6 million in 2023. That's a staggering jump of 60% in just one year. Nearly one in five cars sold worldwide in 2023 was electric, up 35% from the prior year. In the first quarter of 2022 in the United States alone, there was a record 60% increase in EV registrations. The data tells the story of a growing trend — EVs are becoming an ever more viable and attractive option for new drivers. 

Why Consider an EV for Your First Car? 

There are many reasons why EVs are a compelling choice for your first car. For example, there are lower operating costs compared to gas-powered vehicles. EVs can be cheaper to power than traditional vehicles, as electricity costs less per mile than gasoline. You also eliminate the need for regular oil changes and other routine maintenance associated with gas-powered engines. 

Environmental benefits are another benefit of EVs. They produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet. Reduced emissions and a more sustainable driving experience are attractive benefits for the next generation of drivers inheriting the planet's environmental challenges. To tackle these challenges, many states and the federal government offer tax credits and other incentives for purchasing an electric car, reducing the upfront cost of EVs and making them more accessible for younger drivers.

EVs are also state-of-the-art vehicles packed with modern technology. This includes safety and driver-assistance technologies. Automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring provide an invaluable extra layer of protection for new drivers.

Challenges and Considerations When Choosing an EV as a First Car

EVs offer a suite of benefits, but they have a few challenges. While they offer the potential for long-term savings, EVs typically have a larger upfront cost than gas-powered vehicles. The savings on operating costs and purchasing incentives offset this somewhat, as does the fact that EVs currently seem to hold their value better than traditional vehicles.

EVs have some logistical challenges, such as a limited driving range per charge compared to gasoline vehicles. Deciding whether an EV is a good fit for you often comes down to considering your daily commute and driving habits to make sure you have a vehicle that meets your needs. Most new EVs offer sufficient range for daily errands and commutes, but long road trips might require a bit more planning. 

Related to this is the presence or absence of charging infrastructure. Convenient charging options are crucial for EV owners. Ideally, you would want access to home charging (either a dedicated charging station or a standard outlet). Public charging stations are becoming more common, but may not always be readily available or convenient, something to consider if you often take long road trips.

Comparing Models: Pros and Cons for New Drivers

The growing popularity of EVs means there are a lot of options available. In choosing the right one for you, consider factors such as:

• Size and design: Consider your needs for cargo space and passenger capacity. Many smaller EVs are excellent for city driving and ideal vehicles for new drivers.
• Safety features: Prioritizing models offering advanced driver-assistance features, especially if you're a young driver, is always a good option.
• Tech features: Consider the level of technology you desire, including infotainment systems, connectivity options, and telematics features (these can be attractive to parents wishing to keep an eye on their newly licensed children).

Making the Decision: Is an EV the Right First Car for You?

Deciding if an EV is right for you as a new driver often comes down to questions of lifestyle and finances. Think about what you would be using your vehicle for. If you have a short daily commute and you're mainly looking for a vehicle to drive around town, then an EV is a fantastic choice. Once you start thinking about long-distance travel, there are logistical considerations to factor into your travel planning.

Think about the long-term financial benefits of going electric for your first car. The higher initial purchase price can be daunting for some, but look beyond that. Consider cost-effectiveness and the presence of incentives that help drive down that initial sticker price. An EV is often a great decision for cost-conscious drivers.

Choose Chalmers Ford for Your EV Adventure

EVs are no longer simply for eco-friendly drivers looking to help the environment. They're a serious contender in the automotive industry in their own right. Technology and affordability improve every year, and they're an increasingly attractive option for first-time buyers. If you want to explore purchasing one of the best affordable electric cars, visit Chalmers Ford. Our team of experts is on hand to help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your needs and budget, so drop by our dealership or contact us today to arrange a test-drive.