Adopting electric vehicles (EVs) helps to improve fuel economy, lower fuel costs, and reduce emissions.

TYPES OF EVs

There are actually several different types of EVs available in the marketplace. A consumer should understand the differences in the options available.

• Battery Electric vehicles (BEVs) – fully electric-powered with a rechargeable battery, this is what most people think of when they hear about EVs
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) – include both a rechargeable battery and a traditional gas internal combustion engine, where the engine only kicks in when the battery charge is low or when at very high speeds
• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) – an older technology often referred to as “a hybrid,” these do not plug-in and rely on gasoline or regenerative breaking to recharge the battery; they often do not qualify for EV incentives
• Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) – unlike other EVs, these cars use hydrogen fuel cells to operate, and must be repowered at stations, much as a gasoline car would be

BENEFITS OF EVs

• EVs generally have lower maintenance needs than traditional cars, as there are fewer parts
• Electric charging is usually cheaper than filling a tank with gasoline
• Lower noise pollution in the absence of a gas engine

INCENTIVES

• Some incentives are available to reduce the cost of EVs
• These incentives are not evenly distributed and vary by state and local policy
• Manufacturers may offer sales or discounts to lower EV purchase prices
• Incentives may vary by EV type; for example, HEVs often do not qualify for the same benefits as newer EV types, as they still rely heavily on gasoline
• Leasing and sales financing may also be set lower than for gasoline cars
• The policy environment and price of EVs change over time. Navigators are encouraged to check from time to time for the latest updates.

*See Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC): Driving Clean Assistance Program Best Practice for example.