Since the introduction of electric brands such as Tesla, and the establishment of electric models from older brands like the Bolt from Chevrolet, are definitive proof that the electric car market is beginning to boom. 

The prospect of owning an electric car is becoming a lot more feasible. There are not only more places that are able to service electric cars, but more brands too. Brands such as Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan, Hyundai, and Kia all offer electric cars, making them easy to find at common dealerships all across the country. Furthermore, those dealerships will be able to maintain those cars, which is almost exactly what one could do with a regular car. Luke Munch ’21 highlighted, “Electric cars are becoming a lot more mainstream, and are definitely going to be a consideration if and when I buy a car for myself.” Additionally, these cars are becoming a lot more affordable. The aforementioned brands have electric vehicles starting at under $35,000. That number doesn’t even include the often $10,000 plus worth of text credits that one could receive after purchasing an electric car. This additional incentive makes purchasing a car a lot more feasible for those who may not be able to afford one that is new. Coupled with the gas savings that one will have, an electric car can be a lot more possible for the majority of people. 

Now, one major argument against the purchase and utilization of electric vehicles is that they are not useful if one wants or needs to drive far. When asked about the usability of electric vehicles every day, Teddy Devoll ’21 is worried. He mentioned, “I think that it would be really hard to use electric vehicles every day because not everyone has access to effective charging systems for their vehicles.” Contrary to what DeVoll mentions, this argument, especially in recent months and years, has become invalid. If one owns a Tesla, the Tesla Supercharging system encompasses tens of thousands of chargers strategically placed all across the country. These chargers only take 30 minutes or less to gain, in many cases, more than 300 miles of range. They also, in many circumstances, are located close to restaurants, shops, and other attractions that one could utilize while their car is charging. If one does not own a Tesla, there are also thousands of chargers located in various shopping malls, hotels, and stores all across the country. These fill-ups will almost always last as long as a tank of gas. Though there is much more of a time commitment when charging compared to filling up a gas tank, there are plenty of things to do while filling up. In this day in age, charging one’s car is as easy as filling up with a tank of gas. 

Another consideration is that electric cars hold their value especially well. Due to the fact that they are more accessible, and of higher quality, than they have been in previous years, they are a lot more common than they used to be. It isn’t uncommon to see an electric car on the roads, or even in the Friends School parking lot. On top of their good value, electric cars are subject to a variety of federal and state tax credits. These credits can not only offset the cost significantly but they can further incentivize the already amazing value that electric cars bring. These benefits, however, are not yet universally recognized. Chemistry teacher Sarah O’Brien mentioned, “I was not aware of the federal and state tax benefits that electric cars bring, as well as the many options that are available.” While there are many benefits, the electric car industry needs to better advertise its monetary benefits.

The electric car industry is ever-changing and evolving. With newer technology, better marketing, and a quicker and more accessible charging network, gas cars will be given a run for their money.