The Tribune

Q: What is an EV?

An EV is an electric vehicle. It does not require any gasoline and is propelled by an electric motor using energy from the electricity grid or from solar, stored in rechargeable batteries.

The motor provides instant torque, creating strong, smooth acceleration. Around three times as efficient as cars with traditional combustion engines, the running costs of an EV are usually very low. EVs also run quietly and do not emit tailpipe pollutants.

The world’s top selling highway-capable electric car is the Nissan LEAF.

Q: What is the difference between EVs and hybrid cars?

The primary difference between an EV and a Hybrid car is that the Hybrid derives some of its power from a conventional gasoline engine, requiring visits to the gas station and regular service of the combustion engine.

A true 100 per cent electric car like the Nissan LEAF gets all of its power from electrical sources, including solar power and thereby is a completely zero-emission vehicle.

Q: Will I run out of power with an EV?

With a conventional combustion engine vehicle, you make plans to refill the tank with gas when it is running low. With an EV, you fill up at home, at work, or on the road by plugging in at your convenience any time.

Fully charged, the range of a Nissan LEAF is up to 100 miles and the majority of drivers drive less than 30 miles per day, so the battery will not be empty, even if you forget to plug in sometimes.

Q: How do I charge an EV?

When purchasing an electric vehicle, a charger is included, or you may choose to install a faster option. After installation, just plug in your car. Your EV is fully charged in just a few hours.

Similar to cell phones, a full charge is not necessary for use. EVs like the Nissan LEAF can also use regular household power outlets, though this method takes longer.

Either way, never stop at a gas station again.

Q: How will an EV affect my electric bill?

Electric vehicles are very economical. The Nissan LEAF for example, costs approximately 5 cents per mile at current energy prices in the Bahamas.

That translates into $5 for a full charge which will take you 100 miles. In general, expect to spend less than a third of what you would normally spend on gasoline - and no combustion engine service.

Q: How much does an EV cost to maintain?

Electric vehicles are very low maintenance. With the Nissan LEAF for example, when service is needed, diagnostics are performed on a computer.

Since there is no combustion engine, there is no oil change, no spark plugs or pistons, no radiator problems or mufflers, literally 1,000 parts which are not present in an EV to repair or replace.

This makes maintenance costs dramatically lower than a traditional vehicle and translates into fewer maintenance visits and lower costs.

For more questions about EVs email AskMe@easy242.com.