Electric vehicles: your top questions answered

Electric cars can save you money on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. More Vermonters are plugging in, but there are a few things to consider before you make the switch. Below, we answer your most frequently asked questions.

Many people associate electric cars with high-end brands like Tesla, but there are a wide variety of models and price ranges available right here in Vermont. New cars retail for $23,000 or more, with used cars as low as $9,000. Local rebates and special offers are available.

In Vermont, charging an electric car costs about the same as paying $1.75 per gallon of gas. You’ll use more electricity, but it will still only cost you about half as much to drive an electric vehicle as a gas-powered car, on average.

If you drive an all-electric car, you’ll also eliminate the cost of regular oil changes, cooling system flushes, transmission services and replacement of air filters, spark plugs, and drive belts. Even with a plug-in hybrid model (an electric car with a gas tank backup for longer trips), you won’t have to perform these services as often. Check Drive Electric Vermont's EV cost of ownership resource for more details.

Most owners charge their electric cars the way they do their cellphones: by plugging in at home, overnight. You can charge your car with a dedicated 120-volt outlet, or you can install a 240-volt charging station for faster charging (about 10-20 miles of range for each hour that you are plugged in). 240-volt home charging equipment and installation typically costs about $2,000-$3,000, but many Vermont utilities are providing free charging equipment or other installation support to reduce this cost.

Some workplaces offer electric car charging onsite. There are also over 500 public charging stations available across Vermont, including over 100 fast chargers that can charge all-electric cars in about 30 minutes.

Most EVs with over 250 miles of range can handle Vermonters travel needs at any time of the year, but cold weather will deplete a battery charge more quickly. Vermont owners have reported a reduction in range on days with lower temperatures. On very cold days you’ll want to plan for about 30% less range or possibly more depending on the vehicle and conditions.

With proper tires, electric cars are a match for most Vermont roads and winter conditions. In fact, owners often report better traction in snow than conventional gas-powered vehicles because of the heavier battery.

Electric cars are held to the same rigorous automotive safety testing and standards as conventional vehicles. They are additionally required to meet electric vehicle standards that ensure safe battery storage and crash protection. Most common models have received 4- and 5-star crash test safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).