With so many different car styles and manufacturers to select from, purchasing a new vehicle can be overwhelming. Now add another degree of complexity with the rise of electric cars. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you might be debating electric cars vs gas cars. Let’s break down the numerous factors you should consider.
Understanding Electric Cars: How They Work and What They Offer
EVs provide unparalleled advantages like improved fuel economy and a smaller environmental footprint, all without sacrificing style. Innovative companies like Tesla, founded on the spirit of electric mobility, are leading the way, while established brands like Honda, Toyota, and others are embracing the trend with cutting-edge EV models fitted to today’s market.
Basic technology explanation
There are many types of electric vehicles: BEV, PHEV, and Mild hybrid.
BEV: stands for Battery Electric Vehicles. These vehicles are completely electric, with a rechargeable battery and no gas engine. A Cadillac Lyriq is an example of a battery-electric car.
PHEV: Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles combine a gasoline engine with a large battery. PHEVs, for example, can function entirely on electricity for shorter travel (20-50 miles) before transitioning to hybrid mode.
Mild Hybrid: A mild hybrid car, unlike the two previous varieties, employs a tiny battery and electric motor to support the gas engine, allowing for fuel efficiency without requiring a plug-in or large electric-only range. Our Lexus NX Hybrid is a tiny luxury crossover that gets exceptional gas mileage.
At Rohrich, we have a diverse selection of EVs, including the all-electric Toyota bZ4x SUV with a remarkable range (up to 252 miles), the luxurious midsize SUV Lexus RX Hybrid, the dependable Honda Accord Hybrid, the adaptable CR-V Hybrid, and many more!
Performance characteristics of electric vehicles
The most notable characteristic of EVs is their near-silent driving experience, which creates a peaceful cabin environment. Another distinguishing feature is the instant torque and acceleration provided by its electric motors, which respond immediately, resulting in lightning-fast acceleration. Most electric vehicles also use regenerative braking, which means they harvest energy while decelerating to replenish the battery, increasing efficiency and range.
Gas Cars: The Traditional Choice That’s Still Evolving
Don’t rule out gas cars just yet. Many car aficionados still favor gasoline-powered vehicles due to their rich history and evolving efficiency, which helps meet the demands of the modern world, including advanced technology and cost-saving features.
Modern fuel efficiency improvements
Although EVs are well-known for their fuel efficiency, modern gas cars use innovative gas engine technology such as turbocharging and direct injection to enhance fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance, making them an excellent choice for individuals searching for cost-effective cars.
Our fuel-efficient gas options include:
- The Toyota Corolla, equipped with a 2.0L GDI engine, achieves up to 41 MPG highway, making it a cost-effective choice for driving.
- Camry’s 2.5L GDI engine delivers up to 39 MPG on the interstate while providing a smooth, family-friendly ride.
- Sporty Mazda 3 with a Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine (turbo option), up to 36 MPG highway, and excellent handling.
- Honda Civic is equipped with a 1.5L turbo engine that can get up to 42 MPG on the interstate and provides nimble, exciting driving qualities.
- Luxurious alternatives for Lexus IS and ES, featuring a 2.0L turbo engine, a 3.5L V6, or a hybrid option, respectively, providing up to 33MPG on the highway.
Cost Comparison: Electric Cars vs Gas Cars
Upfront Purchase Price
Electric vehicles often are more expensive than gas-powered cars due to their batteries and other advanced technologies. However, the price range of both EVs and gas cars depends on the models and manufacturers. For electric vehicles, prices range from $33,000 – $58,000, while gas-powered cars range from $$23,000 to $43,000.
At Rohrich, we offer flexible financing options to make purchases more accessible. We offer competitive APRs, exclusive promotions, trade-in programs, and more!
Long-term Ownership Costs
Maintenance and repair differences
EVs generally provide an overall lower long-term cost due to their maintenance routine and fuel savings. However, when it comes to repairs, EVs can be costly due to the specialized parts and limited service centers.
Gas cars require more upkeep to maintain their optimal condition due to their complex engine systems. For example, gas cars require oil changes, spark plug replacements, and transmission replacements, whereas EVs have simpler drivetrains with no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems.
Environmental Impact: Electric Cars vs Gas Cars
Carbon footprint comparison
Although on paper, electric cars have a lower lifetime carbon footprint than gas cars, the number also depends on driving habits and electricity sources. Also, the manufacturing environmental costs of an EV take up more emissions due to the mining and extraction of its resources, like cobalt, lithium, and nickel. However, gas vehicles also have a negative impact on the environment. It has a more established production, but still involves extractive processes that harm the environment and local air quality.
Which Type Fits Your Lifestyle?
Electric cars are ideal for:
Electric automobiles are suitable for everyday commuters with predictable routes, particularly those within a 50-mile daily radius. Drivers can take advantage of its electric-powered short routes, which do not require a gas combination. However, for EVs, you must consider a garage with access to electrical charging. Although there are public charging stations, having one at home is more convenient, as it allows you to charge overnight for the next day’s travel.
Gas cars are better for:
Gas automobiles are an excellent choice for frequent long-distance travelers, as refueling is simple and convenient. This is especially true if you live in a remote region, where there are few public charging stations. And if you don’t have an electric charging station at home, owning an EV will be more of a hassle than a convenience. Furthermore, individuals seeking lower upfront costs should consider gasoline-powered vehicles.
Making Your Decision: Key Questions to Ask Yourself
If you see a vehicle you like, whether it’s gas or electric, don’t buy it just because it looks good on paper and is reasonably priced. Yes, those are essential factors. However, you want to make your decision based on your driving habits, needs, priorities, and practicalities. With all of the factors discussed in this article, you can achieve your dream with the right features that meet all of your requirements, resulting in a wise and successful purchase.
Conclusion
When it comes to electric cars vs gas cars, both options offer their own advantages and disadvantages. The two serve as an ideal vehicle for different types of drivers with different needs, because they have plenty of options to choose from. Besides the design and manufacturers you desire, explore your needs and preferences, and match them with your choice.
Visit Rohrich to see our complete stock of quality used and new EVs and traditional gas cars! Our team can also provide you with more information about each car and assist you with any questions you may have, ensuring your journey to buying your new car is smooth and pleasant.