Electrical vehicles or EVs have the cool factor. Stuffed with all the bells and whistles you want, EVs are growing in popularity. According to industry research, they represent about 19% of the overall auto market. You may have gone green and already own an EV, or maybe you’re on the fence trying to better understand what EV ownership looks like.
This high-level guide will help navigate the important considerations for owners or shoppers like how to maintain, protect and insure your EV.
Maintaining your EV
The most significant difference between an EV and a traditional vehicle is that EV’s individual motors are affixed to the wheels that generate power. They don’t have an engine with moving parts that require fluids, belts and fuel. But owning an EV does not remove the need to maintain your car. Create a maintenance checklist for your vehicle. You should also understand the unique features of your EV and maintain those components:
Software
So much of your EV is controlled by electrical systems and software. When new versions or upgrades deploy, take steps to update your vehicle’s software.
Battery health and management
How and where you charge your EV is a common question for owners or people considering making the change. It’s crucial to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for charging and servicing your vehicle’s battery. Various factors can impact your EV’s battery health like extreme heat or cold and how you charge up. Fast charging versus normal can impact the longevity of your battery over time. If you see any significant drop off in driving range, you may need to have your battery serviced.
Tires
Inspect your tires frequently, and follow your manufacturers suggested timeline to rotate your tires. If you notice excessive wear, consider replacing your tires. Excessive wear can lead to reduced performance or range. It can also lead to increased accident risk or vehicle damage due to a blowout.
Brakes
Inspect your brake system, including your brake pads, discs and lines. Have your brakes serviced based on your manufacturer’s suggested timeline. EVs should have a brake inspection or service every 5 years, and brake pads and fluid should be inspected or changed every two years or 22,000 miles according to Kelly Blue Book "Opens in a New Window". See note 1
Protecting your EV
Alarm systems and theft deterrents
It’s likely that your new tech-friendly ride has security features like an alarm system or an app for your phone that gives you alerts when someone approaches your car. Make sure to arm your alarm system and keep your car locked. Consider where you park as well. A well-lit parking lot or having a camera over your driveway can deter a would-be thief from trying to break into your car.
Anti-theft and tracking technology
Consider using anti-theft devices, tracking technology, home security cameras and vehicle monitoring apps. Having an anti-theft device or tracking system may even qualify for a discount on your auto insurance policy.
Weatherproofing and environmental protection
Most EV charging ports and chargers themselves are designed to be weather resistant. You should consider keeping your charger and cables stored in a covered structure, if possible, to reduce the risk of weather-related wear and tear. Store your vehicle in a garage or covered car port, if available, to keep paint, glass and tires in good condition as well.
Insuring your EV
Maintain adequate insurance
You should maintain appropriate levels of auto insurance for your financial situation. Damage from weather-related causes, like a blown over tree or hail, would typically be covered by comprehensive coverage. So, if your EV is hit by lightning and the battery is damaged, your insurance should be able to help repair or replace your car.
Most cars are loaded with sensors and components that can be costly to repair or replace. A simple fender bender may not be so simple if the parts and labor to repair your ride carry a higher price tag. Damage from car accidents with other drivers or objects typically are covered by collision coverage.
Lastly, you should maintain enough financial protection to protect your nest egg from potential lawsuits or costs that you may be personally responsible for following a car accident. The part of your auto insurance that provides this protection is liability coverage.
Your comprehensive and collision coverage benefits are determined by the value of your vehicle, but the amount of liability coverage you pick should be based on your financial needs. We suggest carrying liability coverage that is at least equal to your net worth.
Policy discounts or other benefits may be available depending on your insurance provider. Relatively speaking, EVs are new, and insurance carriers are looking at ways to provide competitive options for customers. Learn more about the options and costs of insuring your EV.
Sustainable Practices
One of the biggest benefits and also most significant areas of attention is your EV’s battery. When it comes to optimizing driving range, driving habits play a large factor in determining what distance you can travel.
Regenerative braking
Using your EV’s regenerative braking is a best practice. Regenerative braking works by reversing the direction of your car’s motors during your deceleration and directing a small amount of energy back into the electrical systems. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these incremental boosts to your battery can accumulate over time and improve your EV’s efficiency.
Green charging options
Depending on your location and available options, you may want to consider utilizing renewable energy sources to support charging your EV at home. Solar energy can help to reduce the energy demand that your home will have. It’s likely your costs for gasoline will significantly reduce, but you’ll want to pay attention to your home utility costs. You may be able to offset your potentially higher home energy costs with solar or another form of renewable energy.
Preparing for an Emergency
No matter if you are driving an EV or a traditional vehicle, prepare for the unexpected. If you experience an emergency on the road, you should have a roadside kit and plan in mind.
Roadside Kit
Traditional items like roadside flares or a reflective warning triangle should be included in your roadside kit. You may also want a flashlight, gloves, tire pressure gauge and a tire patch kit. It may also be a good idea to keep a portable battery charger for your mobile device in your car or with you.
Roadside service or assistance
If you need a tow or help getting your car back on the road in an unexpected issue with your EV, you may need to use professional roadside assistance. Your auto insurance provider may offer roadside assistance as a benefit of your auto insurance policy. You can also buy supplemental roadside assistance coverage from other providers if your insurance policy doesn’t provide it.
Protect your electric vehicle.
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