Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly common across the Northern Beaches – and it’s a trend being repeated around the country; more than one in 10 of all new cars bought in Australia this year are electric. EVs are selling at even higher rates overseas.

As with all new tech, there’s lots to learn about how they work and what to think about before you jump in. Here are 7 considerations when it comes to EV ownership:

What is an electric vehicle? 

Any vehicle - car, scooter, bike, bus or truck – that’s powered by an electric motor and stores electricity in a rechargeable battery. They can be plugged into a household power point to ‘fill’ their battery or installing a dedicated level 2 charger at home reduces charging times.  

Why go electric? 

They’re significantly cheaper to power than petrol or diesel vehicles and require less maintenance costs. Another benefit is they don’t produce air pollution while moving and are far quieter on the roads,

How much will it cost me? 

As the variety of models and supply increases, the lowest entry point for an EV has dropped considerably. A brand new, small hatch EV can now be purchased for less than $35,000 making them competitive and affordable for many Australian drivers.

Can I buy a secondhand EV? 

More Government and commercial organisations are electrifying their fleets which means more coming to the used-car market. Current research shows that EV batteries have longer operational lifespans than original laboratory projections, so there are bargains to be had.

Incentives

Recent Government policies and tax concessions are driving demand, competition and attractive pricing. With Fringe Benefit Tax exemption applying to many EV models and novated lease tax savings available, a new EV can save you thousands of dollars. 

Charging

Australia’s charging infrastructure is growing. Locally, Council has been facilitating access to fast chargers on some of our sites. Based on demand Council is looking for more locations and will be collaborating soon with community to find out where you would like to more installed in the future.   

How far can you go? 

Manufacturers continue to develop better technology to improve distances and increase charging options to combat so-called range anxiety.

If you want to know more about EVs a recording of our recent webinar Is an EV right for me? will be available shortly. 

Fore more information on electric vehicles, visit the Transport for NSW website.