Introduction
It's high time we reduce our non-renewable fuel consumption in cars, as it strains our finances and harms the environment. But what if we told you there's a solution with zero emissions, lower operating costs, and the latest technology? Yes, we're talking about electric vehicles (EVs)!
Despite offering the advantages of electric cars, the journey from traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs might seem daunting to many. But fear not! This extensive guide is here to help you make that smooth transition into the world of electric mobility, highlighting all the EV benefits along the way!
Evaluating your need for an electric vehicle
The initial step towards embracing the EV revolution is determining whether an EV aligns with your lifestyle. Let's debunk some common concerns before you take the leap and explore the electric car benefits.
Range anxiety
One major concern prospective EV owners have is "range anxiety," i.e., running out of charge in the absence of charging infrastructure. However, an average Indian drives 20-35 km per day. With most EVs offering a range of over 200 km on a single charge, such as Hyundai Kona (452 km range) or Tata Nexon EV Prime (312 km range), your daily commute is more than covered!
Charging infrastructure
While it's true that India still has room for improvement regarding public charging infrastructure, it's far from hopeless. As per data from the Ministry of Power, there are currently over 12,146 public charging stations across India. Additionally, home charging can cover most users' needs.
Cost considerations
Initial cost outlay for EVs is higher than ICE vehicles, but EVs redeem themselves in operational costs. To illustrate, consider the following table:
Cost Head | Petrol/Diesel Car | Electric Car |
Initial Cost | Lower | Higher |
Fuel/Maintenance Cost per annum | ₹1-1.5 lakh | ₹20-30k |
Clearly, the electric car benefits become apparent when you consider the long-term picture.
Types of electric vehicles
There are three broad categories of EVs available:
- Battery electric vehicles (BEV): These are 100% electric vehicles like Tata Nexon EV or MG ZS EV.
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV): They have a combo of an electric motor and a conventional engine. An example is Volvo XC90 T8.
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEV): These start using electric power and then shift to gas as speed increases, like Toyota Camry Hybrid.
Retrofitting your car with an electric kit
If you're not quite ready to let go of your old car, retrofitting it with an electric kit could be a viable option. The Government has provisioned for retrofitting traditional combustion engine vehicles with an electric core under the Central Vehicle Motors Rule, 1989. Costs for such conversions typically range between ₹3-5 lakh.
Advantages of electric cars
Now that we've discussed the basics, let's delve into some substantial advantages of electric cars:
- Environmental friendliness: EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing significantly less to air pollution and global warming.
- Energy efficiency: Electric motors convert more than 90% of energy from the grid to power at the wheels, compared to about 20% energy efficiency in internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
- Lower operating costs: EVs generally require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts and no exhaust systems. They also have lower fuel costs per kilometre.
- Tax benefits of electric cars: In India, EV buyers can avail ev tax benefits under the FAME II scheme and income tax rebates (Section 80EEB) on interest paid on loans for EV purchase. Exploring these EV tax benefits can significantly reduce the overall cost of owning an electric vehicle.
Exploring the benefits of electric vehicle lease
Considering transitioning from petrol or diesel to an Electric Vehicle (EV) smoothly? Opting for an electric vehicle lease can be a smart choice. It offers a hassle-free way to experience EV ownership without the upfront costs. With electric vehicle lease options, you can enjoy the convenience of trying out different models, understanding charging infrastructure, and assessing your driving habits before making a long-term commitment to purchase. Exploring these EV benefits can help you make an informed decision about your transportation needs.
Transitioning: Step by step
Now that you're aware of the electric car benefits, here's your step-by-step guide to making a smooth transition:
- Understand your driving needs: Analyse your daily commute distance and driving habits. This will help you decide which type of EV suits you best.
- Research available models: Once you've identified your needs, research the available models in your preferred category.
- Test drive: Always test drive before buying! It gives you a firsthand experience of the vehicle's performance and range.
- Purchase: Found the perfect EV? It's time to make the purchase. Consider financing options, including an electric vehicle lease or a car loan.
Conclusion
Transitioning from petrol/diesel cars to EVs is not just about changing your ride; it's about embracing a sustainable lifestyle. With their environmental benefits, low operating costs, and government incentives such as income tax deductions, advantages of electric cars are clear and undeniable.
And here's some good news: you don't have to break the bank to own an EV! With leasing models like Quiklyz's electric vehicle lease plan, you can enjoy all EV benefits without worrying about high upfront costs or maintenance expenses. So, what are you waiting for? Subscribe to Quiklyz and drive home your favourite EV.