From zero emissions to powering your home.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are on the rise as cost-effective, environmentally friendly transportation options for Nova Scotians. With their lack of a tailpipe, we know that switching to an electric ride can help reduce your carbon footprint, but their benefits don’t stop there! Keep reading to discover five environmental benefits of EVs that might surprise you.
1. Regenerative braking saves wasted energy.
Every time you brake, particle pollutants are released into the air. EVs have a brake setting known as regenerative or regen braking that cuts down on these pollutants. In regen braking the car uses the motor instead of using the brake pads to bring the vehicle to a stop, which helps to recharge the batteries as you drive. This system is better on your car’s brake pads and cuts down on the amount of particle pollutants associated with braking.
2. Nova Scotia’s grid is becoming cleaner every day.
An EVs dependence on electricity causes some to wonder if they are better for the environment than a gas-powered vehicle. Although not preferred, an electric vehicle powered on 100 per cent coal is cleaner than its gas-powered alternative. Luckily, our growing commitment to renewable energy means Nova Scotia’s energy grid is becoming cleaner every day. By 2030, Nova Scotia is aiming to have 80 per cent renewable energy, making EVs an even more attractive choice.
3. EV batteries account for their own emissions within two years.
During the production of any vehicle, emissions are a by-product, and an EV is no exception. It’s true that there are emissions associated with the creation of EV batteries. However, on a typical 400 km range battery, these emissions are offset, within the first 18 months of driving, through fuel savings and other environmental benefits.
4. EVs reduce noise pollution.
EVs are famously quiet. Because they don’t have an internal combustion engine and therefore do not require as much power upon acceleration, EVs are not nearly as noisy as a gas-powered vehicle. This reduces noise pollution, especially in urban areas, leading to reduced background stress levels and driver fatigue.
5. Your EV can help power your home.
Did you know that some EVs can be used to power your home in the event of an outage? Put away the storm flashlights and gas-powered generators, and instead let your EV battery do the work! EVs with vehicle-to-load capabilities allow you to transfer power from your vehicle’s battery to your appliances and more.
Is an EV right for you? Why not test drive one with Next Ride. Feel the thrill of driving electric – book your test drive at Nextridens.com.
