Benefits of Owning an Electric Vehicle
Charge at home
Electric cars use a battery to store the electric energy that powers the motor. The batteries are charged by plugging the vehicle into an electric outlet.
Safety
Many electric cars receive top National Highway Safety Traffic Administration safety ratings.
Range
Most Americans drive about 35 miles a day. According to the manufacturers, today's electric cars have a median range over 200 miles.
Cheaper to "fill" up
The estimated cost of electricity needed to power a plug-in electric car is about one-third of the cost of gasoline.
Fuel Economy
Because they rely on whole or in part on electric power, their fuel economy is measured differently than in conventional vehicles. Miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) and kilowatt-hours per 100 miles (kWh/100 mi) are common measures.
No Tailpipe Emissions
All-electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, which makes them much more environmentally friendly than conventional vehicles.
Environmentally Friendly
Electric cars offer significant environmental advantages over conventional gasoline or diesel-powered cars. With an electric vehicle there are many environmental benefits including reduced carbon emissions, reduced operating emissions, water quality preservation, and reduced noise.
Incentives
Many all-electric cars qualify for federal tax incentives and credits. And through PNM, you can apply for a special EV charging rate (WHEV) and/or up to $500 towards a level 2 charger.
Buying an electric car
You have several choices when you are ready to begin the research and considering all the important details before buying an electric car. The Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) has compiled a Consumer Guide to Electric Vehicles that highlights the many electric cars that are available nationwide. You can use this guide to begin your research and learn more about the types of electric vehicles that are made, the driving ranges, and the charging levels which is explained in more detail here.
Types of Electric Cars
There are different types of electric cars: Plug-In Hybrid (PHEVs) and Battery All-Electric (BEVs). Which type of vehicle is right for you depends on your needs and driving habits. Use the Department of Energy tool to determine which electric car fits your needs and your lifestyle. You can also learn more about the differences between hybrid and all-electric vehicle types by visiting the Department of Energy electric vehicles site.
More resources about electric vehicles
We understand that making the decision to buy an electric car or
electric truck means you will want to research the options that are best
for you. Here are some other resources we found that might help you
with the journey toward making an informed decision.
ELECTRIC CARS - THEY'RE NORMAL NOW
CONSUMER GUIDE TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES
CONSUMER GUIDE TO ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING
ELECTRIC VEHICLES BENEFITS AND CONSIDERATIONS
ELECTRIC VEHICLES SAVE CONSUMERS MONEY
Already an EV driver? Join our PNM EV community.
Are you interested in learning more? Do you already own an electric car or truck? Join PNM's EV Community to stay up to date on upcoming PNM programs, rebates, and discounts.
Learn more about Electric Vehicles.
EV at Home
EV for Businesses
General Information
