About electric vehicles
What is an electric vehicle?
Electric vehicles (EVs) refer to cars or other vehicles with motors that are powered by electricity rather than petrol or diesel. The most common type of EV is a battery EV (BEV) or ‘plug-in’ EV which are powered only by electricity and are charged using an external electrical charging outlet.
The second most common are plug-in hybrid EVs (PHEVs). These are powered by a combination of electricity and petrol. They can be charged using a plug but also contain an internal combustion engine that uses petrol. More information on the types of EVs can be found on the Australian Renewable Energy Agency ARENA website.
What are the benefits?
- Reduced fuel costs
- Lower maintenance costs
- Reduced air pollution (with associated health benefits)
- An improved driving experience
- Greenhouse gas emissions can be eliminated if EVs are charged using renewable energy.
How much do they cost?
An EV is cheaper to run than a petrol or diesel vehicle. Driving an average distance of 33 km per day for a week will add around $15 per week to your electricity bill to charge a Tesla Model 3. Estimate the cost of owning an EV with free tools compiled by the Electric Vehicle Council.
*Tip: If you use solar panels or are on a lower electricity rate, this will be even cheaper!
What about range?
In NSW, the average distance travelled by vehicle per day is 33 km (based on annual mileage of 12,000 km per vehicle). This is less than 10% of the average range of EVs, meaning you’ll have plenty of charge left after your daily commute or to run errands and still have enough for the rest of the week.
How do I charge?
Find out how you can Charge at home or use one of our Public chargers.
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