Buying

Pre-Purchase Electric Car Checklist

Key considerations before buying an electric vehicle (EV), including range, charging infrastructure, incentives, etc.

EV car charging
EV car charging
EV car charging
EV car charging
Pre-Purchase Electric Car Checklist

Checklist

  • Determine your daily commute and travel needs.
  • Decide on the vehicle size that suits your needs.
  • Set a budget for the purchase.
  • Understand the vehicle's range on a single charge.
  • Consider the battery charging time.
  • Research the expected battery life and replacement cost.
  • Assess the feasibility and costs of installing a home charging station.
  • Check the availability of public charging stations on your regular routes.
  • Calculate the total cost of ownership, including initial and running costs.
  • Check for available government rebates and tax credits.
  • Compare features of different electric vehicle models.
  • Read reviews and test drive your preferred models.
  • Understand the warranty coverage, especially for the battery.
  • Get insurance quotes for your preferred models.
  • Explore available financing options and compare interest rates.
  • Decide on what to do with your current vehicle.
  • Get pre-approved for a loan if you plan to finance the vehicle.

Tips

While the checklist provided covers most of the essential factors, here are a few more uncommon yet important considerations:

  • Tire Type and Replacement Cost: Electric vehicles are often heavier than traditional vehicles due to the weight of the battery, which can lead to faster tire wear. Check the type of tires that come with the vehicle and the cost of replacement.
  • Towing Capacity: If you plan to tow a trailer or caravan, check the towing capacity of the electric vehicle. Not all electric vehicles are suitable for towing.

cartoon of people charging EV

About EVcourse

EVcourse is a collection of checklists for people interested in the Electric Vehicle industry