What Features in an Electric Car Will Make You Buy One?

When considering whether to make the switch to an electric car, there are several key features and requirements to keep in mind. For those who have already made the transition, or are planning to do so, the following criteria can provide guidance on what to look for.

The Key Features That Matter Most

In my experience, the most important features for an electric car include:

Enough range to make long-distance trips feasible Support for self-driving technology Reliability, safety, and affordability A robust charging infrastructure

As someone who has already purchased an electric car, I can attest to the fact that these features play a critical role in determining the suitability of an electric vehicle for everyday use and long-distance trips.

Focus on Safety, Maintenance, and Cost

When searching for a car, my top priorities are:

Safe to drive Less maintenance Lower cost

While electric vehicles like Tesla excel in areas such as range, performance, and environmental friendliness, they can be quite expensive. However, if the car is safe, doesn't require significant maintenance, and is affordable, Tesla can be an excellent choice. For me, Tesla meets the safety and well-being standards, but the high cost is a drawback. Therefore, I aim to find a vehicle that balances these priorities effectively.

Transitioning to a Single Electric Vehicle

My long-term plan, which has been in place since 2014, is to use a short-range, mass-market electric vehicle as a daily driver, such as my Nissan Leaf, while keeping a gasoline-based vehicle for longer trips. The ultimate goal is to economically replace both with a single electric vehicle. For this to happen, the ideal car would need to meet the following criteria:

A minimum effective highway range of around 270 miles (EPA mixed use driving) to cover the remaining distance for a 500-mile trip between cities. Basic tactile controls for functions like A/C, radio, etc., to avoid looking down at a touchscreen while driving. A low-mileage, affordable used car. A price under $30,000, including a home fast charger installation. A home charger included in the price, providing a full charge in less than 8 hours. A load capacity over 1000 pounds. A range greater than 360 miles with air conditioning running at 100°F and a full load of four adults plus luggage for a one-day return trip from Houston to San Antonio or Austin. A network of charging stations spaced no more than 50 miles along all Interstates, offering a 50% charge in less than 30 minutes. A spare tire and towing capacity of at least 1000 pounds. A range greater than 250 miles when towing a 1000-pound trailer. Scheduled maintenance costs less than $200 per 10,000 miles, available within 10 miles of your home. Replacement tires cost less than $150 installed. Insurance costs no more than the current car, a 2013 VW Passat.

While my 2013 VW Passat meets all these requirements except for the charging ones, it can be refueled in five minutes at half a dozen places within 5 miles of my house for a range of over 600 miles. This presents a strong benchmark for what an ideal electric vehicle should achieve.

Conclusion

Selecting the right electric car is a significant decision. By focusing on key features such as range, safety, affordability, and charging infrastructure, you can ensure that the vehicle you choose meets your needs for both daily use and long-distance travel. Tesla, while a top choice for many, may not be the most cost-effective option for everyone. By carefully evaluating your priorities, you can find the ideal electric vehicle to meet your specific requirements.