Are you looking for a ride that offers higher fuel efficiency, superior performance and energy independence? Plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) can help put you in the driver's seat. EVs may still represent a road less traveled in the overall vehicle market, but the number of buyers making the connection is growing. U.S. EV sales topped 300,000 for the third year year in a row in 2020, according to EV-volumes.com, an EV market consulting firm.

Why are EVs making such inroads? They offer a number of advantages over conventional vehicles:

• Lower operating costs. EVs are less expensive per mile than gasoline vehicles. Also, electricity rates are consistent over time; no more worries about jumps in gasoline prices.
• Fuel efficiency. EVs convert about 60% of electrical power to the wheels, while conventional vehicles convert only about 20% of the fuel stored in gasoline.
• Improved performance. Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines.
• Energy independence. Electricity is a domestic fuel source.
• Reduced emissions. Although EVs have no tailpipe emissions, there are emissions from generating electric power. Still, EVs reduce total emissions by 30% to 60% compared to internal combustion engines.

The power to choose

You've got plenty of options when it comes to purchasing EVs. There are two main types: battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Both types use batteries to power an electric motor and plug in for recharging. There are, however, some important differences.

BEVs run only on electricity. Most new cars can travel more than 100 miles on one charge, while some more expensive models have ranges of up to 250 miles. Examples of BEVs include the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Bolt and the Tesla Model S.

PHEVs run on electricity for a shorter range, then switch over to a conventional gasoline engine when the battery's depleted. The flexibility of PHEVs allows you to drive on electricity as often as possible while also being able to fuel up with gasoline when needed. Some PHEV models also use biofuels and other alternative fuels. Popular PHEV models include the Toyota Prius Prime and the Ford Fusion Energi.

See www.fueleconomy.gov for more information about EVs and to compare different models.

Getting a charge

You can charge your vehicle at home, at work or at the growing number of public charging stations available. There are more than 40,000 public charging stations across the country, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Beltrami Electric Cooperative has installed a Level 2 and a DC fast charger at our facility, along with Level 2 chargers at the Wayside Rest Area in Blackduck and in the parking lot of the Big Bog Recreation Park in Waskish.

• Level 1 chargers can take up to 40 hours to fully charge. They're mainly for home use.
• Level 2 chargers require 240-volt service and add 10 to 25 miles of range per hour of charging time.
• DC fast charging stations add up to 80 miles of vehicle range in 20 minutes.

Home and workplace Level 1 cables generally cost $150 to $400 to purchase, depending on type. Level 2 charging stations cost $400 to $700 to purchase (plus installation). Contact a qualified electrician for safe and proper installation. When connected to BEC's load management program, members can receive up to $500 in rebates in addition to receiving the low off-peak rate for charging. Learn more

Incentives smooth the way

Although EVs often cost more than conventional vehicles, financial incentives can help. By purchasing an EV, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. There are also a variety of state and local programs. Search the Alternative Fuels Data Center for incentives available in your area.