Guide to choosing an electric car

What factors should you consider when leasing an electric car?

The main factors to consider are range and charging. When evaluating your required range, you need to work out your daily and weekly commute and make sure an electric vehicle is the right option for your needs. You must also factor in where and when the vehicle will be charged. Will you be in a position to charge the vehicle at home overnight, or will your workplace provide you with the facility to charge while parked? 

Once you understand these factors, it becomes much easier to make a decision. Many electric cars have enough range to support an entire week of driving out of a single charge. Most electric vehicles can now cover 250 kilometers on a single charge, rising upwards of 500 kilometers depending on the type of vehicle. 

What are the 4 main types of electric vehicles?

The first and most common type of electric vehicle in Ireland is a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). HEVs have been around for many years, and a common example is the Toyota Prius. 

Next we have Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs), which are becoming increasingly popular. By using a small 48V battery and electric motor to increase the efficiency of their internal combustion engine, the electric motor can power nonessential features such as air conditioning or the radio. Be aware, however, that the savings can be minimal with this option.

There are also Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs). PHEVs split the difference between battery electric vehicles and normal combustion power by having a battery powered electric motor that is recharged via an external plug. In many ways, this provides the best of both worlds. 

Lastly are Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), which are powered entirely by electricity, with no engine as a backup. They have one or more electric motors powered by a larger onboard battery, usually located deep in the floor pan. 

Why shouldn’t you lease an electric car?

At Nifti, we believe electric cars are the future of mobility. With that said, if your typical schedule includes those who use their cars for boating, caravanning, or other activities that require towing beyond the capacity of EVs, this will have big challenges on the battery range and performance.  

What is the performance like compared to my combustion car? 

In general, the performance of an electric vehicle far exceeds that of a combustion powered car. With fewer moving parts, the surge of linear power is somewhat addictive, as they accelerate to the speed limit with ease. We have yet to drive an EV and be left wanting more power! As a tool for the daily commute, driving an EV becomes intuitive with that simple on-off delivery of power. 

How long do batteries last in electric cars?

The manufacturer’s warranty on the battery components is generally between 5 to 8 years. Some automakers offer extended warranties on the batteries, but if you are a Nifti customer, it is most likely something you will never need to worry about. Your lease term will have long passed well inside of the battery warranty period, and you will more than likely be on to a new vehicle.

Should I buy new or second hand?

Here at Nifti our lease agreements are for new cars only. EV technology is moving at such a fast rate that what seems like a good deal on a used 5-year-old electric vehicle might be quickly made redundant, as newer versions tend to go further and faster.

What savings am I likely to make? 

Aside from the major petrol and diesel savings, you can currently benefit from cheaper road tax, discounted toll crossings and also maintenance bills. Electric cars have few consumables, so you will not need to replace oil, plugs, clutch components, and belts. You’ll only be maintaining tyres, brakes, wiper fluids, and other similar components.