Electric Vehicles

What are electric vehicles (EVs)?

We are most familiar with conventional combustion-engine vehicles, but the market is changing. It can be hard to keep up with the latest technologies, models, and terminology. For simplicity, vehicles can be sorted into two categories – combustion engine and electric vehicles.

Conventional vehicles have an internal combustion engine (ICE), with the most common fuels being gasoline and diesel. Electric Vehicles are vehicles that run on electricity. Although all electric vehicles are not always synonymous with an electric vehicle. Hybrid electric vehicles still have an internal combustion engine and an electric drivetrain. Here is a short breakdown of the four main types of electric vehicles:

• Battery electric vehicles (BEVs or EVs) are pure-electric vehicles, powered solely by one or more electric batteries. They have much longer electric ranges than Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Both PHEVs and BEVs fall under the “EV” umbrella, but the BEV is the only all-electric option, with no alternative standby fuel source or combustion engine.
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are an extended form of hybrid electric vehicles that are plugged in to recharge the battery. They have a larger battery pack that can power the vehicle on electricity for a distance as an EV. PHEVs vary in their electric range and operate on battery until the battery charge is depleted, then run as a regular hybrid electric vehicle – using both gas and electricity to power the wheels.
• Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are currently the most popular where both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor with battery pack(s) work together to power the wheels. The electric motor and battery are designed to improve fuel economy – yielding better mileage and utilizing less gasoline. The battery is charged solely while operating the vehicle; it is not possible to otherwise charge or avoid liquid fuel.
• (Hydrogen) Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) use hydrogen gas to generate electricity for the motor. Today, FCEVs are the rarest breed of electric car due to the complex nature of fuel cell powertrain and the severe lack of refueling stations (predominately available in CA). Rather than drawing power from an energy grid like a plug-in hybrid or battery electric car, a fuel-cell vehicle converts gaseous hydrogen into electricity by using an on-board fuel cell.

Why Go Electric?

Huge leaps have been made in battery technology, enabling electric vehicles to go further, and become more affordable and more efficient. Electric vehicles (EVs) are not a new technology — they have been around for over a century. In the 1890s, electric cars were more popular than gas-powered cars because of their simplicity, reliability, and low cost to operate. For a variety of reasons, EVs disappeared for much of the 20th century, but they are on the rise once again. Most models now have driving ranges of over 200 miles with faster charging and lower prices.

Electric vehicles offer a compelling combination of cost savings, convenience, environmental benefits, and driving enjoyment. Choosing an EV not only benefits individuals but also contributes to a more sustainable and cleaner future for everyone.

At EECA, we are proudly taking part in the EV movement. In 2020, we purchased our first EV – a Chevrolet Bolt. In 2023, we purchased two Ford F150 Lightning pickups and will continue to move to electrify our fleet.

When you choose an all-electric vehicle (BEVs or EVs), they offer numerous advantages for consumers and the environment. Here are our top subjects to consider:

1. 1. Improved Range:

• • • Many EV models now boast driving ranges exceeding 200+ miles. Despite continued progress in driving range, battery technology and charging station availability, a primary concern among prospective EV owners remains range anxiety, or the fear of getting stranded after running out of a charge.
    • Today’s EVs feature advanced battery design that makes them more efficient, with enough power to take you to work and back again. Your car spends 90% of its time parked, and since you can recharge your battery, its far more practical than ever before.

1. 2. Affordability:

• • • Faster charging infrastructure and lower prices make EVs easier to acquire. As technology has advanced, EVs have become far more affordable and are now within the reach of most American families. With an operating cost that can be as little as 25-30% of that of a gas-powered vehicle.
    • Did you know that when you purchase a new electric vehicle, you could be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500? To learn more about this tax credit and other incentives that you may be eligible for, visit here for federal incentives and here for State of Illinois incentives.

1. 3. Operating Savings:

• • • Despite slightly higher upfront costs in many cases, EVs are cheaper to operate due to lower electricity costs per mile traveled. Instead of paying at the pump, you can charge at home or at any public charging station. While an efficient gas-powered vehicle can run for about 10-15 cents per mile, the average electric vehicle can run for 3-5 cents per mile when charged at home.

The EECA Chevy Bolt is charged at our office using our rates. With today’s rates, it costs us $0.033/mile to operate the Bolt. Utilizing regular unleaded gasoline prices from a gas station in close proximity to our office on January 1, 2024, we will use $3.18/gallon. For comparison purposes only, a Chevy Malibu that would hold 15.8 gallons of fuel at a combined fuel economy average of 30 mpg, would cost on average $0.105/mile. Pennies per mile add up to big savings over the lifetime of the vehicle!

• • • EVs have fewer parts than gas-powered cars, meaning fewer things to repair. Say goodbye to scheduling those regular oil changes! When you drive a fully electric vehicle, there’s no need for oil changes, fuel filters, new spark plugs, yearly emissions tests, and other costly maintenance.

1. 4. Convenience:

• • • Charging at home overnight ensures a fully charged battery every morning. The ability to charge at home is one of the biggest advantages of being an EV owner.
    • The growing network of fast chargers allows for longer trips away from home. EECA is doing what we can to be an integral part of reinforcing this network in our part of Southern Illinois.

1. 5. Environmental & Sustainability Benefits:

• • • Fully electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions, offering better air quality than gasoline cars. Hybrid electric vehicles also have significantly reduced emissions compared to their combustion engine counterparts. As a bonus, electric motors provide instant torque for quick acceleration and an enjoyable driving experience.
    • EVs get their power from electricity supplied by the grid, and they use battery energy for all power needs. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind power expand, EVs become even cleaner.
    • Advances in battery recycling enable the recovery of up to 95% of battery materials.