Electric vehicles (EVs) are an environmentally friendly choice, producing fewer emissions than gas-powered vehicles. Additionally, owning Volkswagen electric cars offers substantial savings on maintenance and fuel costs, and with tax incentives, it can be an affordable option. Volkswagen (VW) is a well-known and trusted brand, and their EV models offer many benefits.
This article will explore the different types of EVs provided by VW, the VW EV benefits, battery care, and why buy Volkswagen EVs.
EVs come in different types, each with unique features that cater to various needs. VW offers three different types of EVs: Battery Electric, Plug-in hybrid, and traditional hybrid.
A Battery Electric Vehicle, or BEV, is a fully electric vehicle with a battery that powers an electric motor, propelling the car. BEVs have the smallest environmental impact and the most charging convenience since they don't rely on gasoline at all. They don't need oil changes, transmission services, or even brakes, as often if the driver depends on the regenerative braking system. However, their range is limited compared to traditional vehicles, and finding a charging station can be challenging in certain areas.
Plug-in hybrids, or PHEVs, have a rechargeable electric motor and a gas engine that kicks in to extend the range if needed. They offer an electric driving range of about 20 miles or more, which is sufficient for daily commutes, and have the ability to drive even farther with the working gas engine. PHEVs provide a balance between the benefits of an electric car and a traditional gas car. However, frequent charges with limited electricity may result in the engine having to compensate for a regularly used battery, reducing its efficiency.
A traditional hybrid combines a gas engine and an electric motor to power the vehicle. The electric motor uses the gas engine to recharge its battery as the car is being driven. They are fuel-efficient, making them an ideal option for long commutes. On the downside, they are not fully electric and may not provide the potential cost savings and environmental benefits you may expect from a BEV or PHEV option.
A federal tax credit is offered on many EV models, including Volkswagen EVs. This credit, ranging from $2,500 to $7,500, depending on the vehicle, can significantly reduce the purchase price and make buying an EV a more attractive and affordable option. This is one of the main reasons for switching to Volkswagen electric vehicles.
Many states and utility companies offer additional incentives for driving an EV, including rebates, exemptions from emissions testing, and lower electric and parking rates. Check with your local authorities to see what incentives might be available for you.
According to reports, EV owners can expect to spend about half as much annually on maintenance and repair as gas-powered vehicle owners. The reduced number of moving parts helps keep maintenance costs down, making ownership much cheaper in the long run.
One of the best perks of owning an EV is that the car can charge while you sleep, work, or run errands. You can charge your EV at home with a standard outlet or a Level 2 charger that can be installed professionally by an electrician. Charging is accessible, reducing the inconvenience of finding a fuel station, although you may need to consider the cost of electric supply. Public chargers are also rapidly growing in number and conveniently located.
EVs offer fast and smooth acceleration and are incredibly quiet. There's no noisy engine under the hood to disrupt the ride. The extra horsepower from the motor and the low center of gravity of the battery pack gives EVs better handling and more responsive steering compared to traditional vehicles.
For drivers who want the convenience of an electric car's zero-emissions local driving and the ability to drive for long-distance trips, a Plug-in Hybrid might be the best choice. A PHEV provides drivers with a balance of electric and gas driving, with the electric range sufficient for daily commutes and the capability to travel hundreds of miles on a gas engine. This drive range flexibility makes plug-in hybrids the most widely purchased form of EVs. 96% of EV owners said they'd buy another EV as their next vehicle, showing high satisfaction rates among EV owners.
The time it takes to charge your EV varies depending on the type of charger being used. Level 1 chargers offer about 3-8 km of range hourly, which is perfect for PHEVs but not as suitable for BEVs. Level 2 chargers offer a charging rate of 16-32 km of range per hour, which is ideal for both PHEVs and BEVs and is best when charging overnight or all day is possible. Level 3 fast chargers are the best choice to charge the EV's battery quickly. These chargers provide up to 96-128 km of range in 20 minutes, making them ideal for quick, on-the-go charging. For example, on a Canadian road trip, you can make it halfway between Ottawa and Montreal before recharging your car at Kanata VW.
Charging from home or other locations is convenient, safe, and easy. The location of the charge port varies among each model. Typically, charging ports are located at the front or back of an EV and have a plug-in design of either SAE J1772 or CCS.
Charging at home is easy and more affordable than charging from public stations. Simply plug your EV into an electrical outlet or a charging station to begin charging. For PHEVs, a standard outlet is sufficient, while for BEVs, a Level 2 charger must be professionally installed by a licensed electrician. If you reside in an apartment or condo, talk to your property owner about installing a charger if one is not available; alternatively, use available public chargers. Kanata VW can provide expert advice on your charging options.
Keeping 20-80% charge density is best for lithium-ion batteries to endure better range and battery life. Following this, battery quality may last 100,000 to 200,000 km driving distance. There’s no need to let the battery drain to empty before plugging it in since that can stress it more. It’s also best to avoid frequent extreme temperatures, which may contribute to battery damage or reduced charging efficiency.
Volkswagen's commitment to the environment and innovation is showcased in its EVs. While EVs may require adjustments to your lifestyle, they offer long-term cost savings and environmental benefits, making them worth considering as your next vehicle purchase. Visit Kanata VW, Ottawa’s official VW dealership, and take your next electric Volkswagen for a test drive on the spot! At Kanata VW, professional staff is available to discuss pricing, financing, and any other questions you may have.
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