How much do EV’s cost?

Written by Larry Thompson EV’s range in price from less than $25,000 to more than $2,000,000.    From a more practical perspective, three of the most popular EV’s are the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus ($39,990), Chevy Bolt ($36,620) and the Toyota Prius Prime ($27,600). There are both federal and state incentives available that may significantly reduce your cost. A more detailed description can be found on our incentives page.

Do EVs Require Maintenance?

Written by Larry Thompson

The short answer

Like all cars and trucks on the road today, BEVs require periodic windshield wiper replacements, tire rotations, inspection of the brakes, and replacement of brake fluid.   

However, BEV’s do not have gasoline or diesel engines, transmissions, and exhaust and emission systems and therefore do not require many of the scheduled maintenance items which are required internal combustion engine cars. Due to the regenerative braking, the brake pads will last much longer on a BEV.

PHEV’s have internal combustion engines and battery systems, therefore, require many of the same maintenance items associated with internal combustion engines. There is considerable variation across PHEVs and that will affect the necessary maintenance accordingly.

Learn more

Using Tesla as an example BEV’s will require some maintenance as follows:

Tire rotations

Windshield wiper replacement

Inspection/replacement of the battery coolant

Inspection/replacement of the brake fluid

 

Internal combustion cars and trucks require the following maintenance items:

Tire rotations

Windshield wiper replacement

Inspection/replacement of the battery coolant

Inspection/replacement of the brake fluid

Engine oil/filter changes

Replace air filters and spark plugs

Exhaust system inspection

Comprehensive service check-up

Emissions check (usually required by State Agencies*)

 

*In 2020, Connecticut requires an emissions check every two years for cars manufactured between 1996 and 2016.