The number one way to lower your carbon footprint is to live car free.
This may be easy for some, but is more difficult for the majority of commuters who live at least 20 minutes from work.
If you can’t live car free, consider going electric. By 2030 it is estimated that 7% of all cars in the United States will be electric. Here in North Carolina, Chapel Hill has emerged as an early adoptor market and it is estimated that the town will have a higher percentage of electric vehicles (EVs) as compared to the national average.
In anticipation of this increase, the Town is prepared to continue installing charging stations and looking for ways to incentivize EVs by promoting their use and offering same-day permitting for home charging stations. The Town is also pursuing grant opportunities that will help support the installation of more EV infrastructure in Chapel Hill.
Check out this website and search “Chapel Hill, NC” in the upper left corner to find the more than 25 publicly available charging stations in our community.
Having an EV will become easier as time goes on. With the increase in demand and changes in battery technology, vehicles will become cheaper, more efficient and easier to charge. Here are some myths or common misconceptions about EVs.
Common EV Myths:
EV are costly and difficult to maintain. Did you know that EVs do not require oil changes or tune ups because they have an electric motor? They also have fewer moving parts so that means fewer items that may need to be replaced in the long run.
Also, savings on fuel and maintenance can offset the sticker price of an EV and make it less expensive year-to-year than a traditional gas vehicle. PluginNC studies show that powering a gas car can cost on average about $1,250.00 a year, while powering an EV costs $400 a year. You can use this calculator to compare the costs of specific models based on gas and electricity prices in your area. Moreover, prices will decline as EVs enter the used car market.
You will not only save on fuel and maintenance but those who buy these cars early on will get to benefit from grants, tax incentives, open charging stations and more.
Many people believe that the battery life is insufficient for daily commutes. However, even the shortest range EV is built to cover double the average 40 miles Americans drive a day.
Another misconception is EVs are slow, making them dangerous on highways. On the contrary, EVs generate 100% of their available torque instantly, meaning they can accelerate faster than most gasoline powered engines. As for safety, it has been found that statistically the chances of a battery exploding are no more likely than any car catching on fire. Furthermore, they undergo the same safety exams as their counterparts.
A common myth is that owning an EV will be too difficult without abundant charging stations. However, studies show that most charging will happen at home or work (80 to 85%). This means EVs are incredibly easy to charge at the owner’s convenience. If you’re thinking about charging at home, consider installing a charging station that works for your vehicle and driving patterns. Town Hall offers same day permitting that allows licensed installers to receive a electrical permit within 24 hours. In addition, the Town has identified priority locations to install public charging stations making charging even more convenient in the future.
For more information on EVs or other ways to make your commute greener check out our on the go page.