How to Compare Electric and Petrol Cars

With the threat of climate change constantly in the public eye and the price of petrol increasing every year, electric cars are becoming more and more popular. Before abandoning your traditional petrol-guzzling vehicle, it pays to know how the two types of cars compare. By looking at several specific characteristics, you can get a better sense of whether electric or petrol is right for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Check the speed and distance. Although many electric cars can legally be driven on all UK roads, they are usually designed for use at lower speeds in more congested areas like cities. Petrol cars have the advantage for long distances and motorway driving at high speeds.
2. Examine safety records. Traditional petrol cars are usually bigger and heavier, making them perform better in crash tests, but they are also more likely to do damage to other road users. Electric cars are usually driven at lower speeds, are less likely to be involved in fatal collisions, and don't carry petrol or other highly inflammable materials, which makes them less likely to combust.
3. Look at the interiors and exteriors of different cars. There are considerably fewer makes and models of electric than petrol cars which means your choice about the look of your car will be limited if you opt for an electric. Petrol cars also tend to be roomier than their smaller electric counterparts. Check to see if the car has room for luggage, and be sure to check the headroom and legroom in electric cars, especially if you are very tall.
4. Consider the running costs. Petrol cars tend to cost considerably more than electric models, but it's best to compare prices on several different cars. You also need to take into account the amount you will save on petrol with an electric car. In addition, electric car owners can make savings on servicing, road tax, parking and other charges, though the cost of replacement batteries, the installation of a charging point and the minor electricity costs must be taken into account.
5. Consider the effect on the evironment. Environmental considerations are the most popular reason for buying an electric car, and there is no doubt that electric cars are better for the environment than traditional combustion engines which run on precious fossil-fuels and produce polluting exhaust fumes.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider a hybrid car. If you can't decide between an electric and a petrol car, consider a hybrid which is powered by one electric engine and one combustion engine, giving it the best of both worlds.
• Electric cars have to be charged by plugging them into a mains socket, which makes proximity to a power source quite important and may require off-street parking.