EV Buyers Guide
1. Assess Your Situation
As with any vehicle purchase, choosing an electric vehicle (EV) starts with understanding your own needs. EVs can fit a wide range of lifestyles, but a few key factors will help narrow down the best option for you.
Start with how you drive. Most daily trips in Maine are well within the range of today’s electric vehicles, making EVs a practical option for commuting, errands, and family travel.
Think about charging. If you can plug in at home, even with a standard outlet, charging is simple and often cheaper than gas. Public and workplace charging can also fill the gap.
Consider winter driving, incentives, and costs. Cold weather can affect range, but EVs perform well year-round. Lower fuel and maintenance costs, and available rebates, can make EVs more affordable over time.
A Note on Cost:
While upfront costs of electric vehicles can be higher than conventional vehicles, fuel and maintenance costs are generally lower for EVs.
You can compare the total cost of ownership of different vehicles with this calculator: Alternative Fuels Data Center: Vehicle Cost Calculator
2. Learn About EV Features
EVs come in many shapes and sizes, with a range to match most driving needs. You don’t need the longest-range model, just one that fits your routine.
Learn the basics of charging speed, from overnight home charging to fast charging on the road. Many EVs also offer smooth acceleration, quiet rides, regenerative braking, and advanced safety features. Fewer moving parts mean less maintenance, and modern EVs are built to handle Maine roads and seasons.
EVs use different terminology and measurements than conventional gas-powered vehicles.
3. Try It & Buy It
Looking to make your next vehicle purchase more energy-efficient? Efficiency Maine partners with a network of participating dealerships across the state to make it easy for Maine residents to access instant rebates on electric and high-efficiency vehicles.
When you buy from a participating dealer, you can receive your rebate at the point of sale, making it simple and convenient to drive a cleaner, greener car. Find a participating dealer near you and start saving today!
