Electric Car Myths and Frequently Asked Questions

Electric Car Myths & Frequently Asked Questions

While Electric cars are often hailed as the ultimate advancement in automotive technology, many drivers remain reservations about them. Here, we look at the facts and dispel some popular myths.

True or False EV Myths

Q: Are electric cars dangerous?

A: Electric vehicles (e-cars) exhibit lower noise levels in everyday situations than internal combustion engines operating at lower speeds. This notably curtails noise pollution within urban areas. Electric cars generate an artificial sound when moving below ten mph to address pedestrian safety concerns. In the case of the BMW i3, this synthesized noise is extended up to 20 mph, diminishing as the car gains acceleration. As e-cars reach higher speeds, the tire-road interaction noise becomes sufficiently audible for pedestrian awareness.

Q: Electric vehicles are expensive?

A: Contemporary electric vehicles (EVs) are priced in a manner that aligns with the costs of conventional non-electric cars. Furthermore, there exist opportunities for credits and rebates that further augment your potential savings. Upon acquiring an EV, the possibility of a tax credit is contingent upon the specific model you choose.

Q: Electric cars are just a stop-gap solution ?

A: The era of combustion-engine vehicles will inevitably draw to a close, driven not solely by the depletion of oil resources but by the necessity to safeguard the environment and mitigate climate impacts. The prevailing uncertainty pertains to the market's future dominance of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) versus Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs). What remains certain is that fully electric vehicles will hold significant prominence, serving as the pivotal solution to meet ambitious CO2 emission reduction goals. A likely scenario entails a blend of diverse propulsion systems, mirroring the varied options that BMW, for instance, will provide.

Q: Electric cars don't have a long enough range?

A: The prevailing understanding is that batteries possess a potential lifespan ranging from 10 to 20 years, aligning them with the vehicles' durability. Furthermore, it's noteworthy that BMW manufacturers offer warranties specifically covering batteries. When acquiring an EV, it's advisable to inquire about the available battery warranties.

Q: Electric cars aren't better for the environment than combustion engine vehicles ?

A:The environmental impact of electric cars hinges on electricity sources. If derived from renewables, their daily use has a minimal ecological effect. Coal-based power, however, expands their footprint. Battery manufacturing, labor-intensive and CO2-intensive, also plays a role. Yet, even with conventional electricity and production included, electric cars remain favorable. BMW, since 2017, has prioritized renewable electricity in Europe, exemplified by the all-renewable-powered electric BMW i3

Q: We don't have enough places to charge electric vehicles ?

A:Most, accounting for 80% of instances, involve electric vehicles (EVs) being charged at residential locations. For expedited home charging of your EV, installing a Level 2 charger connected to a higher voltage outlet (240v) is the most efficient option. On the road, the availability of EV charging stations is progressively expanding throughout the United States with each passing year. Discover the count of public charging stations nearby using our Charging Station Finder tool.

Q: Electric vehicles are Unsafe ?

A:Similar to conventional non-electric vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs) undergo a thorough and rigorous testing procedure to adhere to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards requirements. The considerable presence of battery packs and the lack of space-consuming internal combustion engines in EVs provide the advantage of incorporating extra crumple zones for enhanced safety. Furthermore, the safety of EV batteries is subjected to a distinct testing protocol to ensure their utmost security.

Q: Electric vehicles are worse for the environment than regular cars?

A:Diverging from conventional cars and trucks, electric vehicles (EVs) stand apart by altogether avoiding the release of tailpipe emissions. Although it's worth acknowledging that a portion of emissions might originate from electric power generation, it's essential to note that EVs substantially curtail overall emissions when compared to standard vehicles. Moreover, the lithium-ion batteries employed in EVs can undergo recycling to retrieve valuable minerals for crafting fresh EV batteries, thereby taking an extra stride toward reducing environmental repercussions.

Frequently Asked Questions About BMW EV Ownership & Safety Precautions for At-Home Charing and Ownership

Q: What are the benefits of an EV?

A: Electric vehicles offer numerous advantages, such as their environmentally friendly nature compared to non-electric vehicles, swift acceleration, reduced maintenance requirements, and other positive attributes.

Q: Is it less expensive to own an EV than a gas-powered vehicle?

A: Absolutely! In reality, it is projected that you could potentially save approximately $5,000 on average by owning an electric vehicle. Additionally, these savings are anticipated to increase even further over time. Take a more detailed examination of the potential cost savings associated with an EV and make a comparison against a gasoline-powered car by evaluating the overall ownership expenses.

Q: How does EV charging work ?

A: Similar to devices such as microwaves or televisions, electric vehicles (EVs) can charge directly through a standard wall outlet. This fundamental charging option is a Level 1 Charger and harnesses the voltage from your typical outlet (110v) to charge your vehicle. On average, Level 1 Chargers offer a charging rate of approximately 5 miles of range per hour. Alternatively, a Level 2 Charger is also accessible, utilizing a higher voltage of 240v. The increased power capacity enables faster charging, achieving a rate of around 25 miles per hour.

Q: How can I install an EV charging station at home ?

A: Contact a certified electrician to set up a NEMA 14-50 socket in your garage.

Q: Can you estimate how much EV charging could add to my electric bill ?

A:Indeed, there exists a Rate Advisor tool that enables you to obtain a prediction of the impact on your current electricity bill due to home charging while also providing you with insights into potential savings.

Q: Is charging complicated ?

A:Charging an electric vehicle is as straightforward as charging your phone, though the charging port is notably more substantial. At the foundational level, a Level 1 charger directly connects from your car to a wall outlet. Conversely, a Level 2 Charger, necessitating professional installation by an electrician, operates similarly to a wall outlet in terms of attachment to the wall. However, it is more extensive and establishes a direct connection to your vehicle for charging purposes.

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us at BMW Rochester Hills if you want to learn more about EV myths and frequently asked questions related to BMW electric vehicles. Our team is here to provide accurate information and address any inquiries you may have. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to assist you in gaining a clearer understanding of BMW electric vehicles.

 
 
   
     

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