Summary
- Leased a Hyundai Kona electric vehicle in October 2023 and now prefers it over gas-powered cars
- Received generous incentives from Vermont for leasing the EV
- Challenges with charging infrastructure, especially when leaving Vermont
- Needed to upgrade smartphone and data plan to effectively use EV charging apps
- Proposed solutions include improved EV charging infrastructure, easier payment options, and more comfortable charging stations
Article
I leased a Hyundai Kona electric vehicle in October 2023 and found the experience to be positive overall, despite some challenges with the charging network. Coming from owning older vehicles that required frequent maintenance, the new electric car provided a refreshing change. While I typically prefer owning a vehicle, the evolving nature of electric vehicles and the lower payments associated with leasing made it a practical choice. Additionally, generous EV incentives in Vermont helped make the lease financially feasible, with state and utility rebates significantly reducing the upfront cost.
Navigating the various incentives available for EVs can be complex, with federal tax credits only being applicable to those who owe taxes during tax season. However, state and local incentives, such as those in Vermont, can make EV ownership or leasing more affordable. In the author’s case, state incentives covered a substantial portion of the down payment, resulting in an affordable monthly lease payment. Despite these incentives, the infrastructure for charging electric vehicles remains underdeveloped, with Tesla dominating the network. However, efforts are being made to open up Tesla’s network to non-Tesla cars from other manufacturers.
Charging an electric vehicle presents various challenges, with different levels of charging offering varying speeds and costs. While Level 1 chargers are the slowest, Level 3 DC Fast Chargers provide faster charging times but at a higher cost. Vermont has a relatively high number of EV chargers per capita, but the competition for charging stations can still be fierce. Traveling out of state in an EV can be particularly challenging, with limited access to fast chargers and the need to plan charging stops carefully to avoid long wait times.
The reliance on smartphones and apps for accessing charging stations adds another layer of complexity to EV ownership. Multiple apps are needed to access non-Tesla charging stations, and the lack of a universal payment system can be frustrating. Additionally, the need for unlimited data on a smartphone to access charging information is an added cost for EV owners. A new state law imposing a yearly fee for EVs and plug-in hybrids is intended to fund the development of charging infrastructure.
Despite the challenges, the author expresses a wish for improved EV infrastructure, including more accessible charging stations with simple payment options. The idea of an EV charging cafe with amenities like comfortable seating, fast wifi, and good food is proposed as a more convenient option for EV drivers. Overall, while the transition to electric vehicles presents some difficulties, advancements in charging infrastructure and technology are expected to improve the experience for EV owners in the future.
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