Benefits of Electric Vehicles (EVs) vs Internal Combustion Engines | Save Money & Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular due to their low cost of ownership and operation compared to Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs). This blog will discuss the advantages of EVs over ICEs, as well as some maintenance considerations for EV owners.
The first advantage is that EVs require less maintenance than ICEs. Owners of Model 3 EVs report only replacing cabin air filters and tires at 33K miles since new. Similarly, a 2017 Bolt owner reports no maintenance other than replacing the cabin air filter after 44K miles, with solar panels providing enough energy to power both his house and car without any energy costs.
Another advantage is that brake fluid in EVs should be replaced every two to three years, rather than five years as suggested by some. While it is true that the system is mostly closed, brake fluid still absorbs moisture from the air and should be drained/filled+bled regularly to maintain optimal performance. Tesla recommends testing brake fluid at two years and replacing whenever necessary.
Finally, there are also financial benefits to owning an EV. Although they may initially cost more than comparable ICE vehicles, they can save money in the long run due to lower operating costs. Additionally, while compliance BEVs may have worse residual values than ICEs, Tesla has one of the highest residual values of any car company. As such, shopping around for a comparable EV may not result in any premium pricing when compared to an ICE vehicle.
In conclusion, EVs offer numerous advantages over ICEs including lower operating costs, less required maintenance, and better residual value. They are becoming increasingly popular among consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money in the long run. While there are some maintenance considerations to keep in mind, such as brake fluid replacement and cabin air filter changes, these costs pale in comparison to the cost of ownership for an ICE vehicle.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71604771/GettyImages_1396320747.0.jpg)
Is it true that BEVs cost less to own and operate than ICEs?
Yes, studies have shown that BEVs can be more cost-effective than ICEs over the long term. Maintenance costs are typically lower for BEVs, and they may also benefit from government incentives.
How often should I replace the brake fluid in my BEV?
Brake fluid should be drained and replaced every 2-3 years, as it absorbs moisture from the air over time. However, if your vehicle is not subjected to extreme conditions, the fluid may last up to 5 years.
What does Tesla recommend for maintenance of its vehicles?
Tesla recommends periodic servicing of brake fluid, pads, calipers, filters, and air conditioning, as needed.
Are there any other costs associated with owning a BEV?
You may need to replace tires more frequently than with an ICE vehicle, depending on the type of tire you choose. Additionally, you should factor in the residual value of the vehicle when making your decision.
What are the environmental benefits of BEVs?
BEVs produce no tailpipe emissions, so they can help reduce air pollution. They also have a lower carbon footprint than ICEs, since electricity production is generally cleaner than burning gasoline or diesel.
Are there any other advantages to owning a BEV?
BEVs are quieter than ICEs, and may be eligible for tax credits or other incentives in some areas. Additionally, they tend to require less maintenance and have fewer moving parts than ICEs.