The Basics of Electric Cars
Like we say time and time again, it’s amazing how far the automotive industry has come in such a short amount of time. Karl Benz introduced the first petrol-fueled engine in 1879, the first electric powered car came to be in 1881 through the efforts of French inventor Gustave Trouvé, Henry Ford popularized and expanded the assembly line in 1913, and today we’re tinkering with vehicle autonomy and self-driving. Automobiles have been rapidly advancing since their inception and, from here, the only way is up. Another revolutionary wave in the modern auto industry is the use of alternative fuel for our vehicles. While gasoline and petrol have been the main staples for power and continue to be due to our wide use of internal combustion engine based vehicles, there are cleaner fuel technologies out there.
Toyota has always been a proponent of the use of N Charlotte hybrid vehicles that use both gasoline and electric power to reduce emissions and boost fuel-efficiency. Our favorite make has also been using hydrogen fuel cells as an efficient and virtually emission-free power source. But, one popular fueling technology that has been in use for several years is electric power and, coincidentally, what we’re discussing with you today! Follow along with us at Toyota of N Charlotte for an all-inclusive guide on electric cars.
A Short Background on Electric Vehicles
N Charlotte electric cars are exactly what they sound like, they’re vehicles powered only by electricity that’s contained in batteries. These types of vehicles have been on the automotive scene for almost 140 years, but gained popularity in the 1990s. In fact, Toyota had an electric vehicle on it’s lineup in 1997, the N Charlotte Toyota RAV4 EV. This Tesla (yes, Tesla) collaboration had a travel range of 103 miles on a full charge and had a top speed of 78 mph. Electric cars have come a long way since then. Their batteries have improved capacities, they can travel farther, have faster acceleration times, unique interface technology, and potential vehicle autonomy and self-driving capabilities. All in all, N Charlotte EVs sound pretty great. Here are some benefits drivers can gain by making the switch.
Benefits to Going Electric
Internal combustion engines have been our main means of commuting for ages and continue to be for many drivers. They’re reliable and proven to work, as demonstrated by drivers all over the world year after year. However, you have to admit that routine and emergency maintenance are the biggest pains. Combustion engines use a plethora of parts to transport fluids throughout the engine block to keep it cool and working during your drive.
On an electric car, maintenance isn’t a huge issue. Vehicle use batteries as their source of power and rarely have to undergo auto maintenance because there isn’t much to maintain. The largest expense drivers could see with vehicle ownership is replacing the lithium-ion battery. But, many N Charlotte Toyota electric vehicle manufacturers cover this part with great warranty options.
There’s also the obvious benefit of never having to pay for gas again! Most electric cars can be plugged in anywhere to draw a charge. Some EV makes also provide free subscription services to their charging stations depending on the model you buy.
While Toyota doesn’t have any pure EVs in its lineup, we still have some of the best hybrid vehicles on the road. Visit Toyota of North Charlotte and shop with us today! You can find us at 13429 Statesville Road seven days a week.