The advantages of driving an electric car

Have you been seriously considering purchasing an electric vehicle, but still find yourself hesitating? It is true that jumping into the world of greener vehicles requires a certain amount of thought that goes further than price and model. On top of the investment, you will have to also consider overall electric range, the installation of an electric charging station at home, etc. Here is a sample of the advantages you will enjoy when purchasing an electric car.

A Positive Environmental Impact

One of the main advantages of owning an electric car is, without a doubt, a low environmental impact. According to a study that was completed by Hydro-Quebec, electric cars produce 65 % less greenhouse gases than a fuel engine vehicle over 150,000 km driven; percentage even increases to 80 % after 300,000 kilometers.

A positive image and participating in a durable way of life

Driving an electric car does not only represent a positive change on the environment, it also increases the sense of belonging to one’s community. Adopting an environmentally friendly way of life –which comes hand in hand with owning an electric vehicle- does give out a positive image of being mindful and respectful of the environment. Belonging to a community that shares similar values geared toward durability reinforces this positivity, which in turn creates a collective feeling of usefulness and the capacity to make a difference.

This durable transportation community is really at the heart of the South-Korean manufacturer’s vision, who strives to achieve carbon neutrality –net-zero emissions- between now and 2050. This goal is why Kia is committing to launching seven new electric vehicles between now and 2025, which includes the new EV9 that should be arriving in dealerships as early as 2024.

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Financial Savings

On top of the money you’ll be saving on fuel, in the long term, your electric car will cost much less when it comes to maintenance, given that:

• It does not require oil changes;
• Brakes last a lot longer thanks to regenerative braking;
• Motor configuration requires less parts, which translates into less expenses.

When it comes to expenses related to charging your electric car, there are several factors to take into account, like the model or battery size.

For example, for a 2023 Kia Niro EV, for a total of 20,000 kilometers –including public and domestic charging stations- you will have to pay $ 502 which is –one must admit- a lot less expensive than with a standard heat engine model.

Government incentives and tax benefits

Another advantage of clean energy vehicles that should not be overlooked is the access to grants that are given by the Quebec government and the Canadian government for electric cars. Depending on model, the provincial government could offer up to an $ 8,000 rebate upon the purchase or lease of a new electric vehicle. When it comes to the federal government, you could have to a rebate of up to $ 5,000.

Here are the Kia models that are eligible to Quebec government incentives, and which include the best electric SUVs:

• Kia EV6;
• Kia Niro EV;
• Kia Niro PHEV;
• Kia Optima PHEV;
• Kia Sorento PHEV;
• Kia Soul EV;
• Kia Sportage PHEV.

If you would like to get more information regarding the different electric vehicle options, you should also read our article on hybrid vs plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Less noise

The only noise you will hear emanating from your electric vehicle will be the sound of your tires on the road. This will make each one of your drives a sweet haven of peace and quiet that all of your passengers will enjoy.

Innovative Technologies and Connectivity

So that your life is made even easier aboard our electric Kia vehicles, they are compatible with several different charging stations, including ultra-fast 800 V chargers, which will allow you to recuperate around 100 kilometers in range in just four and a half (4.5) minutes.

With the compact EV6 SUV –one of the best 2023 electric SUVs-, by choosing the V2L function, you will also be able to power your camping gear, for example, your tools or a sound system, since this system can generate up to 1,900 watts.

Given that in winter, the cold can have an impact over the electric range, the EV6 is equipped with an advanced heat pump system that recycles the heat generated by the electrical components, so as to maximise the battery temperature and prevent loss of range.

A charging infrastructure in Chambly

The town of Chambly and the surrounding area have over thirty charging stations including fifteen closer to downtown, which means that you have access to several charging spaces.

An enjoyable drive and improved performance

Among the numerous advantages offered by electric vehicles, let’s mention the instant torque which makes your driving experience much sportier. With the EV6 GT model, for example, with its 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft. maximum torque, you can accomplish the 0 to 100 km/hr is as little as 3.5 seconds. Yes, it truly is impressive!

Takeaway

If you are still not ready to purchase a 100 % electric vehicle, you can always opt for a hybrid vehicle, which will also be a step toward a more positive environmental impact.

Among all of the hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric Kia models you might like, let’s mention:

• Sportage HEV and PHEV;
• Soul EV;
• Niro;
• EV6;
• Etc.