EV Benefits
Electric vehicles can offer lower operating costs, convenient home charging and a different driving experience than gasoline-powered vehicles. The actual benefits depend on the vehicle, how and where it is charged, local electricity prices and individual driving habits.
Lower Fueling Costs
Charging an EV at home is often less expensive than purchasing gasoline, particularly in communities with low electric rates. Idaho Falls Power customers benefit from some of the lowest electricity rates in the country.
Your actual savings will depend on:
- The efficiency of the vehicle
- How many miles you drive
- Whether you charge at home or at public stations
- Current electricity and gasoline prices
- Fees charged by public charging providers
Public DC fast charging generally costs more than charging at home. Before purchasing an EV, compare estimated electricity costs with your current fuel expenses.
Recommended button: View Current Idaho Falls Power Rates
Less Routine Maintenance
All-electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and fluids than gasoline-powered vehicles. They do not require oil changes, spark-plug replacements or exhaust-system maintenance.
EVs still require routine care, including:
- Tire rotations and replacement
- Brake inspections
- Windshield wipers and washer fluid
- Cabin air filters
- Cooling-system and battery inspections recommended by the manufacturer
Plug-in hybrid vehicles still have a gasoline engine and generally require many of the same maintenance services as conventional vehicles.
Convenient Home Charging
Many EV drivers charge overnight where they live, allowing them to begin the day with a charged battery. Depending on daily mileage, some drivers can meet their needs with a standard 120-volt outlet, while others install faster Level 2 charging equipment.
Home charging may not be practical for everyone. Renters, apartment residents and drivers without dedicated parking should evaluate workplace and public charging options before selecting an EV.
Recommended button: Learn About Home and Public Charging
A Different Driving Experience
Electric motors deliver power immediately, giving EVs responsive acceleration from a stop. EVs are also quieter than gasoline-powered vehicles and operate without engine vibration.
Available models now include sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks and other vehicle types. Range, towing capability, charging speed and cold-weather performance vary considerably, so compare models based on how you expect to use the vehicle.
Recommended button: Compare EV Models
Reduced Tailpipe Emissions
All-electric vehicles produce no tailpipe emissions. Although emissions may be associated with generating the electricity used to charge them and manufacturing the vehicle and battery, research shows that EVs are typically responsible for fewer total greenhouse-gas emissions than comparable gasoline vehicles over their useful lives.
The environmental benefit varies depending on the source of the electricity used for charging. Idaho Falls owns and operates five hydroelectric plants along the Snake River, which provide approximately one-third of the electricity used in the city in an average year.
