PORTLAND, Oregon — There is a lot to consider when buying any vehicle, but even more to think about when choosing an electric one.
The upfront costs of electric vehicles (EVs) are a little higher, on average, but maintenance and fuel costs are much lower compared to gas-powered vehicles. There are also other ways to save money. The used EV market is taking off, and there are many rebate programs available to eligible people with varying incomes.
Mary Brazell with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been educating the public for years about EVs.
"Electric motors are more than three times more energy efficient than an internal combustion engine vehicle, which means for the same amount of energy, you get a lot more work," Brazell said.
The majority of EV drivers charge them at home. They may drive 20-25 miles per dollar of electricity compared to 25 miles per gallon in a gas-powered sedan. That amounts to three to four times the mileage for the same amount of money.
Paying for maintenance also comes with some reduced costs. There are no oil changes, and tires, wipers and air filters are about the only common costs between EVs and gas-powered cars.
Choosing an electric vehicle
There are currently about 114 makes and models of battery electric and plug-in, hybrid EVs, according to Brazell. They range from sedans to utility vehicles and pick-up trucks. Many of them, even if they are used, qualify for state and federal discounts.
The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebates program gives EV drivers incentives to lease or buy about 25 different makes and models in the state.
"The program has been very successful, demand has grown every year," said Erica Timm with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
Last year, demand was so high that the DEQ had to put the program on pause. Funding is back for 2024, and as of April 22, more than $7 million is available. EV drivers have until June 4 to apply for the program. About 195 applications have been approved so far. When funding is exhausted, the DEQ said any other approved applications will be moved to the waiting list for next year.
The Oregon Electric Vehicle Association is holding a test drive expo from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on April 28. It will be at Daimler Truck's North American headquarters on Swan Island in Portland. Pacific Power representatives and EV owners will be there to answer questions, and you'll have the chance to drive up to 24 different EVs. You can register at OEVA.org.
Chris McGinness is a meteorologist and reporter for KGW News. Email him here and reach out on social media: Facebook, Instagram and X.
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