Buying Guide

EV Buyer's Checklist

Everything you need to know before buying an electric car. Use this comprehensive checklist to make an informed decision and avoid common pitfalls.

✓ Check real-world range vs WLTP/EPA ratings. Manufacturer ratings are lab-tested. Expect 10-30% less in real-world conditions depending on weather and driving style.
✓ Understand battery capacity (kWh). Larger batteries (60-100 kWh) provide more range but cost more. Match battery size to your actual needs, not worst-case scenarios.
✓ Battery warranty coverage. Most EVs offer 8 years or 160,000 km battery warranty with 70-80% capacity guarantee. Check specific terms before buying.
✓ Battery degradation expectations. Modern EV batteries retain 80-90% capacity after 5-8 years with proper care. Used EVs should include battery health report.
✓ Temperature impact on range. Cold weather (-10°C) can reduce range by 20-30%. Hot weather has less impact. Consider your climate when choosing an EV.

✓ Home charging options. Standard outlet (1.4 kW) adds 6-8 km/hour. Level 2 charger (7-11 kW) adds 40-70 km/hour.
✓ Public charging network in your area. Check availability of public chargers near home, work, and frequent destinations. Apps like PlugShare show real-time availability.
✓ Workplace charging availability. Free workplace charging significantly reduces ownership costs. Ask your employer about current or planned charging infrastructure.
✓ Charging speed compatibility. Check max AC charging speed (typically 7-11 kW) and DC fast charging speed (50-350 kW). Higher speeds reduce charging time on road trips.
✓ Connector type compatibility. Type 2 (AC) and CCS (DC) are standard in Europe. CHAdeMO is being phased out. Tesla uses proprietary connector but adapters exist.

✓ Regenerative braking. All EVs have this. Check if you can adjust levels (one-pedal driving vs coasting). This reduces brake wear and recovers energy.
✓ Heat pump (important for cold climates). Heat pumps use 30-50% less energy than resistive heating. Essential feature if you live in areas with cold winters.
✓ Pre-conditioning/remote climate control. Heat or cool the car while plugged in (saves battery). Most EVs offer this via smartphone app.
✓ Driver assistance features. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic emergency braking. Many EVs include advanced driver assistance as standard.
✓ Software update capability. Over-the-air updates add features and improve performance. Check if the manufacturer provides regular updates (Tesla, Polestar do this well).

✓ Purchase price vs budget. EVs typically cost more upfront than equivalent gas cars, but lower running costs offset this.
✓ Government incentives/rebates. Many countries offer €2,000-€10,000 purchase incentives. Check local and national programs before buying.
✓ Insurance costs. EV insurance can be higher due to expensive battery replacement costs. Get quotes before committing.
✓ Maintenance costs (typically lower than gas cars). No oil changes, fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking. Expect 30-50% lower maintenance costs.
✓ Electricity costs vs gasoline savings. Electricity is typically 50-70% cheaper than gasoline per km. Calculate based on your local electricity rates and driving distance.
✓ Home charger installation costs. Budget for Level 2 charger installation. Check if government offers installation rebates.

✓ Battery health report (for used EVs). Request state of health (SOH) certificate showing current battery capacity. Avoid EVs with less than 80% SOH unless deeply discounted.
✓ Remaining warranty. Check battery and drivetrain warranty coverage remaining. This is crucial for used EV purchases as battery replacement is expensive.
✓ Software version and update history. Older EVs may not receive latest features via updates. Verify the car can still receive manufacturer software updates.
✓ Previous ownership and service records. Confirm regular servicing, no accident history, and proper charging habits (frequent fast charging degrades batteries faster).

✓ Acceleration and driving feel. EVs accelerate instantly. Test at different speeds and modes (eco vs sport). Ensure you're comfortable with the power delivery.
✓ Visibility and cabin space. Check blind spots, rear visibility, and passenger comfort. Many EVs have lower rooflines due to battery packaging.
✓ Infotainment system usability. Test climate controls, navigation, and phone connectivity. Some EVs rely heavily on touchscreens which can be distracting while driving.
✓ Cargo space with charging cables. Check if trunk/frunk fits your typical cargo plus cables.
✓ Noise levels and comfort. EVs are quiet, which can expose wind and tire noise. Test on highway to check noise insulation quality.

Use our calculator to see if specific electric cars fit your lifestyle. Enter your driving pattern and get a personalized weekly charging plan.