Electric vehicles (EV) are a growing market for new car purchases with more people making the switch from the gas station to an electrical outlet to fuel their vehicles.
In the early 20th century, electric vehicles made up nearly 40% of the U.S. vehicle market share. Despite early popularity, electric vehicles disappeared as roadways improved and exceeded city limits. The electric vehicle’s slower speed and shorter range was not ideal for this type of travel. At the same time, gasoline-powered cars began to improve and became both accessible and affordable. By 1930, electric vehicles had mostly vanished from roads. Interest in electric vehicles made a slight resurgence in the late 1990s, but it was not until 2010 that a more substantial push for electric vehicles developed.
Now more shoppers are choosing to forgo gasoline-powered models and opt for an electric vehicle. Most major car manufacturers are showing support for electric vehicles by developing new models with longer ranges and more affordable prices. The concerns of the past — speed, driving distance and fueling time — are quickly diminishing.
Those who choose to drive electric see savings by fueling at the outlet instead of a gas pump. Additionally, electric vehicles are environmentally friendly and support your local utility like Dakota Electric Association®.
Today, just like a century ago, people primarily charge their electric vehicles at home. At the same time, there are now over twenty thousand public charging outlets in the U.S. With the average American driving less than 40 miles a day and new battery electric vehicles offering 150-370 mile range options, most drivers can find an EV that fits their needs.
EVs also give owners the freedom to choose how they want to power their driving. For example, owners interested in powering their EV with renewable energy, or charging at a cheaper rate, should call Dakota Electric’s Energy Experts® at 651-463-6243 for options available. These programs cut fuel cost and offer a convenience not available to drivers of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
With the foundation laid for both electric vehicles and their plug-in charging infrastructure, driving electric is becoming the new norm again. As we continue making this electric transportation shift, consumers should contact their local utility for information on electric vehicles and chargers.
