Why I Bought an Electric Vehicle: A Personal Journey
My journey into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) began long before I even had a driver’s license. The OPEC oil embargo of the 1970s was a formative moment for me, witnessing the limitations and dangers of our dependency on foreign oil. The idea of being at the mercy of geopolitical events was poignant then and continues to be a critical concern today.
Laying the Groundwork
That early exposure planted the seed, but it took several decades for me to take action. The 2010s saw the rise of hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius, which offered better gas mileage but still relied on gasoline. It wasn't until 2010 that I read about a utility company offering free charging stations for electric cars. This piqued my interest, and I began investigating the available options.
Discovering the Niche Market
Three models caught my eye: the Nissan LEAF, the Chevy Volt, and the Ford Focus Electric. Each was set to debut soon, and I convinced my wife to join me at a Nissan LEAF drive event in my city. The experience was transformative. Not only did the car look and drive like a conventional vehicle, but it offered an unprecedented performance. The electric motor's instant torque was exhilarating, and we were immediately sold.
Why Electric Vehicles?
1. Reducing Dependence on Foreign Countries
A core motivation was reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources. While the 1970s oil crisis was a defining moment, recent trends have shown that high oil prices can re-emerge quickly due to global events. The risk of sending vast sums of money to unstable regions, which could potentially be funding entities that threaten our national security, is a compelling argument for local energy sources.
2. National Security
National security goes hand in hand with energy independence. With our increasing reliance on electricity, as seen in households with solar panels, we have more control over our energy sources. The economic burden of military operations to secure oil flows could be significantly reduced, allowing us to redirect resources towards other areas of need.
3. Environmental Impact
Climate change is real, and EVs are a significant contributor to a solution. Although one person's transition won't solve the problem alone, the collective impact of millions switching to EVs can make a substantial difference. The transportation sector is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, and EVs, along with other sustainable practices, offer a viable way to reduce our carbon footprint.
4. Economic Benefits
EVs are cheaper to operate and maintain. My initial concern was the cost, but as time went on, the benefits became clear. Even though the initial purchase price was higher, the reduced operating costs made the transition more manageable. Additionally, with the increasing availability of EV charging infrastructure and rental services, the convenience factor has become ever more appealing.
5. Performance and Drive Characteristics
The most impactful transformation was in my personal driving experience. After driving an EV, returning to an internal combustion engine (ICE) car felt archaic. The immediate torque and seamless performance are unparalleled, and there's a new appreciation for the power and efficiency of electric vehicles.
6. The Inevitable Event
A pivotal moment came after witnessing the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster. Seeing the immense ecological damage and suffering, I realized the extent to which we rely on resources that we cannot control if something goes wrong. This event solidified my commitment to reducing dependency on such resources.
My decision to embrace EVs was multifaceted, driven by a combination of ethical, economic, and personal motivations. It's a testament to the profound impact of conscious decisions and the collective action needed to address global challenges.