Buying an electric car represents a fundamental decision, an important step that not only changes the way we get around, but redefines our entire conception of mobility.
It is a transition that involves new habits and increased energy awareness. To make sure you make the right choice and fully embrace the benefits of this revolution, it is essential to carefully analyze a number of key factors.
1. Autonomy: beyond the stated figure
Range is, no doubt, one of the first thoughts for those approaching the world of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the number of kilometers stated by the manufacturer (often according to the WLTP cycle) is a reference value. The actual range you will experience on a daily basis depends on a number of dynamic variables:
- Driving style: aggressive driving, with hard acceleration and sudden braking, consumes much more energy. In contrast, smooth and predictive driving, which maximizes the use of regenerative braking, can greatly extend the range, especially on urban routes.
- Route type: unlike combustion engines, electric cars are most efficient in city traffic ("stop-and-go"), where regenerative braking recovers energy. In contrast, high constant speeds, such as on highways, are the most energy-intensive scenario, reducing the effective range.
- Weather conditions: temperatures play a crucial role. Intense cold can reduce the efficiency of the lithium-ion battery, temporarily decreasing the range by up to 20-30%. Intensive use of heating or air conditioning also significantly affects total energy consumption.
2. Charging habits: the new full
Charging management is the element that most distinguishes the electric driving experience. To preserve the health and longevity of the battery, it is a good idea to keep the charge level in an optimal range, usually between 20 percent and 80 percent, reserving a full 100 percent charge only for those occasions when it is strictly necessary, such as a long journey.
There are two main charging philosophies:
- Alternating current (AC) charging: this is the most common mode for home (via wallbox) or workplace charging. It allows the vehicle to be recharged slowly during the night or work day at a very low cost per kWh. It is the ideal solution to start each day with a charged battery, smoothly covering daily travel needs.
- Direct current (DC) or "fast" charging: this is the solution for long trips or when you are short on time. Public High Power Charging (HPC) stations deliver DC power directly to the battery, bypassing the vehicle's on-board charger. This allows hundreds of kilometers of range to be recovered in less than 30 to 40 minutes, making long trips quick and easy.
3. Prices and total cost of ownership (TCO)
Although the purchase price of an electric car may be higher than that of an equivalent combustion model, its total cost of ownership (TCO) is often lower due to significant savings and benefits:
- Incentives: in Europe, in recent years, more and more countries have offered government incentives that can greatly reduce the initial purchase price, making electric more affordable.
- Taxation and benefits: electric vehicles often enjoy significant tax benefits, such as exemption from paying car tax stamps for the first 5 years (and a reduction thereafter) and free or reduced-rate access to the Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) in many cities, Italy.
- Low maintenance: an electric motor has drastically fewer moving parts than a heat engine. This translates into very low maintenance costs: no oil changes, filters, timing belts, clutches or exhaust systems to replace.
- Cost of "fuel": recharging at home, especially at night with lower energy rates, is cheaper than filling up with gasoline or diesel. The cost to travel 100 km can be up to five times less.
4. Your personal needs
The final choice must be tailored to your lifestyle.
- Main use: if your commute is mainly urban or within 100-150 km per day, you do not need a vehicle with a huge range. A model with a medium-sized battery will be more than sufficient and more affordable.
- Space and cargo: If you plan long and frequent trips with the family or need to carry bulky loads, you will need to lean toward SUVs or sedans with more on-board space and a roomy trunk.
Analyzing these points honestly will enable you to choose the perfect electric vehicle for you, turning the transition into a positive experience and enjoying the benefits of zero-emission mobility to the fullest.
Switching to electric means more than just changing cars: it means entering a new, more sustainable, smarter and convenient way of experiencing mobility. You don't have to come out of this journey alone: with Powy you can count on a reliable, widespread charging network powered by 100 percent renewable energy. Find out how to make your electric transition easy: visit our website and get started and become part of the change.
FAQ: How much does an electric car cost and is it worth it?
The purchase price of an electric car is generally higher than that of an internal combustion model. However, this initial investment is amortized over time due to a significantly lower total cost of ownership (TCO). This is made possible by government incentives, which are widespread in Europe, and significantly reduced operating expenses. Added to this are additional benefits: stamp duty exemption for the first few years, free access to LTZs, and significantly lower refueling costs than a full tank of gasoline. Maintenance is also minimal, with no need for oil changes or filter changes.
About Powy
Powy a company that owns, develops, and manages Italy's leading independent network of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.
Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.
Learn more: wpowy.energy