Benefits of Driving an Electric Vehicle

Benefits of Driving an Electric Vehicle

Learn More from Knight Claremont CDJR!

Electric vehicles are on the rise, with more models being introduced every year. There are many reasons that drivers in Claremont, CA choose to drive an EV. Most of all, EV drivers love the potential savings in day-to-day driving costs. If you choose a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), you can get excellent fuel efficiency that may significantly improve compared to a gas-powered vehicle. Meanwhile, fully electric vehicles (BEVs) produce zero tailpipe emissions and eliminate trips to the gas station. Continue reading below to learn more about today’s EVs and why they are becoming so popular!
  • Lower fueling costs (electricity vs. gasoline)
  • Instant torque for quick acceleration
  • Reduced or eliminated tailpipe emissions
  • More charging options at home and on the road
  • Potential incentives, including federal tax credits (vehicle-dependent)

What Kinds of Electric Vehicles Are Available?

There are three main kinds of vehicles that use electric power:
  • Battery Electric (BEV): Runs only on electric motors and a rechargeable battery pack (no gasoline engine).
  • Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): Uses a rechargeable battery and electric motor(s), plus a gasoline engine to extend range when needed.
  • Hybrid: Combines a gasoline engine and electric motor, with a battery that recharges through driving and regenerative braking.
If you’d like a deeper overview of electrified powertrains, visit our electrification research hub for more background on EV technology.

Enhanced Performance

There is a common misconception that electric vehicles lack power and can be a bore to drive. This, however, is not the case. In fact, one of the benefits of electric cars is quicker acceleration than many gas-powered vehicles.

This is because internal combustion engines need time to build RPM to deliver peak power. With electric power, torque is available instantly powering the wheels as soon as you press the accelerator for a more responsive driving experience. If you’re curious how this feels in a plug-in hybrid SUV, see how Jeep’s 4xe technology works.

Decreased Emissions and Fuel Costs

What are the environmental benefits of electric cars? It’s common knowledge that driving any sort of EV – whether hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric can reduce (or fully eliminate) a vehicle’s tailpipe emissions. In addition to the reduction in environmental impact, many drivers also see meaningful savings on fueling compared to gasoline, though exact savings depend on your driving habits, local gas prices, and electricity rates.

Many EV owners charge overnight so the vehicle is ready the next day, and plug-in hybrid owners can often do the same at home. For a practical overview of home charging, see charging your Jeep 4xe at home. When you’re out and about, public EV charging stations are becoming more common – especially near highway corridors, shopping centers, and major destinations.

Federal Tax Credit

Not only do you save on fuel costs, but there is another way that EV owners can save. Depending on the model and eligibility requirements, new EV owners may qualify for up to $7,500 in a federal income tax credit when purchasing a new EV. The total amount of the credit depends on factors like battery capacity and whether the vehicle is a BEV or PHEV.

​In order to be eligible for the credit, the vehicle must meet a series of requirements. First, the EV must be purchased new by the taxpayer and cannot be used. Additionally, the vehicle must be electric-powered by the factory and cannot be converted from a conventional vehicle to an EV by the owner. Lastly, in order to qualify, a vehicle has to be charged by an external power source, which is why hybrids are not eligible for the tax credit. Since incentive programs can change, you can also review current offers and incentives available at Knight Claremont Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.

What EV Models Are Available at Knight Claremont CDJR?

With electric vehicles on the rise, the brands we sell here at Knight Claremont Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram are laying plans for an electric future. Jeep is at the forefront of that push with their 4xe plug-in hybrid lineup. Available for the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, the 4xe system links a 2.0L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a 400-volt lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack.

Jeep has plans for the 4xe system to be available across the whole lineup as well as two electric models by 2025. The first-ever Jeep BEVs will be the Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S. Dodge has also thrown their hat in the PHEV ring with the Dodge Hornet R/T, which pairs a 1.3L turbocharged I-4 engine with an electric motor mounted to the rear axle and a rechargeable battery pack. Dodge has also unveiled the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept, the muscle car brand’s first-ever BEV. Lastly, Chrysler currently offers the Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, which pairs the standard 3.6L V6 engine with two electric motors and a rechargeable battery pack. Like Jeep and Dodge, Chrysler has unveiled the Airflow Concept, which will be the brand’s first BEV.

PHEVs for Sale in Claremont, CA

As you can see, there are many reasons you should consider becoming an EV owner. If you’re interested in getting the best of both worlds with a plug-in hybrid, you can browse our new vehicle inventory at Knight Claremont Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram – your trusted EV dealer. We have the latest in PHEVs, including models like the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe, Wrangler Sahara 4xe, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring L, and more.

To keep comparing models and features, visit our Research Center. If you’re planning payment options as you shop, you can also review financing information right here on our website.