Facts on Electric Powered Cars
Zero-emission vehicles such as electric powered cars (EVs) have the potential to help the world go green and protect the environment. Electric powered cars have a lower operating cost than gasoline powered vehicles, reduce emissions and are typically quieter.
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Considerations
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The problem with electric powered vehicles is that there's a lack of infrastructure for these vehicles, according to Greencar.com. For example, gasoline powered vehicles can easily refuel at a local gas station. However, there are currently very few gas stations that support recharging for an electric vehicle.
Charging
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Charging a typical battery of an electric powered car takes between 4 and 8 hours, according to Greencar.com. Most people with electric cars power their batteries overnight. At approximately 5 cents per kilowatt hour, charging an electric vehicle could cost less than $1 per day.
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Types
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There are different types of electric cars, according to the Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association. Some electric cars run on just electricity, while hybrid electric cars use a combination of gasoline and an internal combustion engine to power the car.
Range
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The range that an electric car can travel on a single battery charge is between 31 and 124 miles with 62 miles being the average, according to the Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association. The range of an electric car is affected by factors like weight, aerodynamics, accessories, rolling resistance and driving habits.
Speed
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The average electric car has a top speed of 40 miles per hour, according to the BBC. However, hybrid cars like the Honda Prius can reach speeds of 100 miles per hour, according to Slate.com. High-performance electric vehicles can reach 150 miles per hour. Electric vehicles have engines with extremely high torque.
Size
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Most electric vehicles are small because of the effect that weight has on fuel efficiency, according to the Vancouver Electric Vehicle Association. The small size of electric vehicles is a safety concern to many consumers, pushing them away from the purchase of an electric vehicle.
Fun Fact
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California has more EV charging stations than any other state, according to Greencar.com. EV charging stations in California are typically located in parking lots, at hotels or airports and at some businesses. Charging at these sites is either free or cheap, and sometimes free parking is offered to drivers.
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References
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- Photo Credit futuristic electric car image by Michael Shake from Fotolia.com
