Understanding Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive, cheaper and easier to maintain than gas-powered vehicles, and contribute fewer emissions into the air. With tax incentives available and a fast-growing network of charging stations, find out if owning an EV is the right choice for you.
Which EV is Right for Me?
Battery Electric
Fully electric cars offer the smallest environmental footprint and the biggest savings on maintenance and fuel.
Plug-in Hybrid
Plug-in hybrids have a rechargable electric motor and a gas-powered engine to extend range if needed.
Traditional Hybrid
Powered by an electric motor and gas-powered engine, Hybrids recharge as you drive. Tax credits and other benefits may not apply.
Benefits of Plugging In
Federal Tax Credit
A federal tax rebate up to $5,000 is available on many EV models.
Local Incentives
Even more savings from your province and/or utility company.
Low Cost to Own
EV owners can expect to spend half as much on maintenance and repair (Consumer Reports)
Fuel Up At Home
Charge while you sleep, work, or at a growing number of public chargers.
Quick and Quiet
Enjoy fast and smooth acceleration, better handling, and a quieter ride.
Best of Both Worlds
Plug-in hybrids provide electric range for short trips and gas-power for longer journeys.
Source: CBC
Owning an EV
Understanding Charging
Charging times vary depending of the type of charger used.
Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 3-8 km of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plug-in hybrid vehicles but not battery electric vehicles.
Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 16-32 km of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 96-128 km of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
Charging from Home
For plug-in hybrid vehicles a standard outlet (Level 1) will be enough for overnight charging. For battery electric vehicles, a Level 2 charger will require professional installation by a licensed electrician. If you live in an apartment or condo, consider talking with the property owner about installing a charger or use a nearby public charger. Talk to our sales staff to find out more about charging from home.
Battery Care
Most batteries will last between 160,000 and 320,000 km when properly cared for. With battery technology continually advancing, that number will continue to increase. If you can keep your battery between 20% and 80% charged most days and avoid extremely hot temperatures, you can expect your maintenance to be minimal.
Charging Stations Near Expert Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd.
Common Questions
What rebates and incentives are available?
What other perks are available?
- Eligible EVs may also qualify for HOV lane access, which are normally restricted to vehicles with multiple passengers.
- Many electric companies offer lower rates based on the time of use. With EVs, you can save money by charging during off-peak times.
- If you're able to charge from work or home, there's usually no need to stop to refuel like you would in a gas-powered vehicle.
- EVs produce zero tail-pipe emissions resulting in cleaner air and better health.
How much will I save on gas?
How much will I save on maintenance?
A recent Consumer Reports study found “maintenance and repair costs for EVs are significantly lower over the life of the vehicle – about half – than for gasoline–powered vehicles, which require regular fluid changes and are more mechanically complex. The average dollar savings over the lifetime of the vehicle is about $4,600 USD.”
Source: Benjamin Preston. October 08, 2020. EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars.
https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/How much range do I need?
How long does it take to charge?
- Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 3-8 km of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plug-in hybrid vehicles, but not battery electric vehicles.
- Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician, and charge about 16-32 km of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
- Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 96-128 km of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.