There are many reasons to ditch your gas-guzzler for a hybrid or electric vehicle, from higher gas prices to creating less pollution to saving money over time. More drivers are considering getting an electric car than ever before – and a growing list of financial incentives is making this goal possible.
But the experience of owning (or leasing) and driving a vehicle powered by electricity will be new for most folks. What is driving one like? Where do you go to power your car battery? The truth is, driving an electric car isn’t that much different from one that uses gas. It will be quieter. You won’t have to smell gas at the pump. You can even plug in your car at home if you have the setup to make that happen.
First things first.
Where – and How – Do You Plug In an Electric Vehicle?
Simply use the charging cable to plug in your car. EVs come with an extension cord that can be plugged into a specialized outlet on one end and into the car on the other end. Many smaller EV charging ports provide recharging equipment outside of parking garages, auto mechanics, strip malls and near sidewalks. Some gas stations are starting to offer EV charging, as well.
For a list of charging stations in your area, conduct an online search or check out locations in this online government database by state.
How Often Do You Need to Recharge Your EV?
All-electric vehicles don’t require any gas to run so they must be plugged in to recharge. There are also plug-in hybrid electric vehicles on the road that are powered by both electricity and gasoline. They have a battery pack that can be recharged at an external port or charging station. But since they also run on gas, it’s not necessary to charge them as frequently.
In the past, charging up a depleted EV battery could take all night. But things are changing. Newer, more efficient technology and a growing number of charging stations is making it easier to recharge when you need to. Still, plan to spend a little longer than you would at a fuel pump. It may take 30 minutes or more, depending on how low the battery is. This process may become quicker and more convenient as more options are provided.
Lower the Cost of Your Next Electric Car with Federal & Illinois Tax Credits
Let’s be real: electric vehicles are not cheap. The good news is that there is financial assistance at both the federal and local level to help people afford their new EV. The federal Qualified Plug-In Electric-Drive Motor Vehicle Tax Credit is available for EV purchases, but there are a few factors to consider:
- A tax credit of $2,500 to $7,500 is available for new purchases
- From manufacturers that have not met certain thresholds of vehicle sales
- The amount depends on the size of the vehicle and capacity of its battery
Some states and electric utilities also offer incentives, many of which are located in an online Laws and Incentives database. In Illinois, for example, residents that purchase a new or used all-electric vehicle from an Illinois licensed dealer can be eligible for a rebate of:
- $4,000 for the purchase of an all-electric vehicle that is not an electric motorcycle
- $1,500 for the purchase of an all-electric motorcycle
Keep in mind that you must apply for the rebate within 90-days of vehicle purchase. Other factors may apply. For instance, rented or leased vehicles will not qualify for the Illinois rebate, and the car or motorcycle cannot have been the subject of a previous EV rebate. The rebate amount can’t exceed the purchase price of the vehicle, and you must retain ownership of the vehicle for a year immediately after the vehicle purchase date. In addition, there will be some documentation requirements that are detailed in the application.
Take Care of Auto & Financial Needs at CFSC Auto Services
Check out CFSC Auto Services for all your auto service needs, as well as a host of financial needs, from cashing your checks to handling your electronic bill payments for your utilities. Here are some car-related tasks we can handle for you:
- Register your new electric vehicle
- Get your new license plates
- Get your annual license plate renewal sticker
- Transfer plates or titles
The world is changing, and so is the way people take care of their auto and financial needs. Why wait in long lines at the DMV? When you stop by your nearest CFSC location, we can do the work for you and save you the hassle. Check out CFSC Auto Services online to find out more!