Drive EV with PWC
Although Electric Vehicles (EVs) have been around since the turn of the last century and made sporadic appearances in the mid-century, the launch of the Toyota Prius in the 90’s is considered as the milestone for the current electric vehicles’ sales expansion. EVs continue to grow in popularity, with zero emissions and a lower environmental impact.
Electric Car Benefits:
- Lower operational costs: While the average purchase cost of an EV may be higher than comparable fossil fuel-powered vehicles, lower operating costs will save you money over time. The estimated cost of electricity needed to power an EV is equivalent to or less than one dollar per gallon of gasoline.
- Lower maintenance costs: EVs have fewer moving parts than gas-powered vehicles, eliminating the need for oil changes and increasing the time between tire and break replacements.
- Zero operating emissions: The emissions associated with EVs come from power plants generating electricity to charge the batteries, not from tailpipe emissions.
- Overall reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions: CO2 is the principal gas associated with global warming, EVs provide an opportunity to lower the carbon footprint.
- Reduced pollution to oceans, rivers, and ground water: Decreased use of petroleum gasoline and motor oil means fewer spills.
- Relief from urban noise pollution: Electric motors are quiet as well as clean, providing a smooth, and high acceleration ride.
- Cleaner air: They help reduce fossil fuel emissions, such as CO2 and other greenhouse gases, that have negative health effects.
Use the Electric Vehicle Calculator to learn how much you can save by switching to an EV.
Buying an EV
If you are looking into purchasing an EV, you have several options to choose from. Both standard and luxury manufacturers are now offering hybrid and fully electric models, from compacts to trucks to SUVs, that suit your needs.
TYPES OF EVs
Compared to traditional vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) powered by combustible fuel, petroleum, or natural gas products, the phrase “electric vehicle” is a broad category that includes all vehicles that are fully powered by electricity or an electric motor.
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) use an electric motor to assist a gas-powered engine. All energy comes from gasoline, but these vehicles have lower emissions than ICE.
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) have a battery, an electric motor, a gasoline tank, and an internal combustion engine. Most plug-ins will use the battery for an average of 30 miles before switching to the gas. The battery can be recharged while driving through regenerative breaking.
- Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are powered solely by an electric battery and are considered zero emission vehicles, as they have no gas engine parts.
Learn more about Available Electric Vehicles In NC and find the one that’s right for you!
LOCAL DEALERSHIPS
Local vehicle dealerships are experts in the EV field and can help ensure you’re getting the EV you want. They are also knowledgeable about federal and state financial incentives that may be available to you.
Available Electric Vehicles In NC
EV Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I charge my EV?
Most EV owners can easily charge at home. A standard 120-volt home outlet can charge an electric vehicle overnight. Customers with higher daily range needs can opt to install a 240-volt charging outlet or Level 2 (L2) charging equipment. When you are not home, there are publicly accessible EV charging stations across Fayetteville and Cumberland County. PWC offers four (4) public EV charging stations capable of charging two vehicles at once that are accessible 24/7. The charging stations are located at Marketfair Mall, Honeycutt Park, Lake Rim Park, and Clark Park. You can also download apps on your smart phone, like PlugShare, to help locate EV chargers wherever you are.
If you are considering charging your EV at home, PWC offers an optional Whole Home rate that features a super Off-Peak rate daily from 9:00pm-5:00am. Customers who sign up for the rate, pay a higher basic facility charge and on-peak rate and their super Off-Peak rate is 44% lower than Off Peak rates. The rate may be the most beneficial to Electric Vehicle owners who can charge their vehicle at home and drive at least 16 miles a day/480 miles a month. You can see which rate may benefit you by using our EV Rate Calculator and call 910-483-1382 to speak with a PWC representative to request to participate in our Whole Home electric rate if you’d like to opt in.
How long does it take to charge an EV?
The rate of charging will depend on the type of charger you use. Level 1 (L1) charging will add 3-5 miles of range per hour and level 2 charging (L2) will add 20-30 miles of range per hour. The fastest charging, level 3 (L3, DCFAST or DCFC), will charge your battery 80-100% in less than one hour. Home charging can be done while you sleep, binge on Netflix, or play with your kids.
Do EVs offer enough range?
The average daily commute in the U.S. is 40 miles and the average American drives 29 miles for non-work purposes. Current EVs have over 300 miles of range in a single charge, which can easily handle these trips around town.
EVs are also great for road trips. Depending on the destination and time targets, almost any trip is possible, and the best part is that you do not have to worry about stopping first by the fuel station since you’ll leave home with a “full tank.” Plan your route past Level 3 charging stations to keep you topped off on the road and check ahead for charging at your hotel or destination.
Does the cold weather affect the performance of an EV?
When temperatures dip below 20 degrees, cars with all kinds of powertrains – from gasoline to hybrids to fully electric vehicles – are less efficient in a mix of city and highway driving than they are at higher temperatures. Much of the extra energy an EV needs in winter is used to heat the cabin since there is no gas engine to generate heat. EV owners can help mitigate the extra power consumption by preheating the cabin while still plugged in and help extend the vehicle’s range for that trip.
Are EVs more expensive than fuel powered vehicles?
The value of an EV is not always apparent by comparing the sticker price. The EPA estimates that some EVs can save a driver as much as $5,000 in fuel costs over five years; these fuel savings can vary based on the cost of gasoline, individual electricity costs, and how many miles they drive each year. In addition, electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs and fewer trips for service. If you include all great incentives and rebates available from the government, state, and your local utility when you purchase an electric car, it is safe to say that going electric could be a great way to save money over time.









