SUVs are handy and pickups are just plain cool, even if you mainly use them to transport your kids around town, run errands, and haul the occasional load of lumber. Like many vehicle owners, you might be considering the switch to an electric vehicle. Reducing your carbon footprint helps the planet and sets a good example for your kids, but before you head to the EV dealership, consider the pros and cons of electric SUVs and pickups.
Pro: No Emissions
Electric vehicles (EVs) produce zero tailpipe emissions (most of them don’t even have tailpipes). Therefore, while driving your kids to school or running errands, you are not contributing to air pollution, and exhaust fumes aren’t circulating your kids when you’re idling.
Pro: Low Maintenance
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to conventional cars, which leads to lower maintenance costs. You can say goodbye to oil changes and hello to more time and saving money.
Pro: Quick Torque
Electric vehicles boast rapid acceleration. The quick torque of an electric SUV or pickup can be a game-changer, whether you need to merge onto a highway or navigate city traffic.
Pro: Quiet Operation
Electric vehicles operate quietly. This feature can make your commute home much more peaceful. On the other hand, school drop-offs may sound louder with less noise to drown out your kids bickering in the back seat!
Pro: Still Customizable
Just because you’re going electric doesn’t mean you lose out on customization options. You can still add sidesteps to your SUV or Pickup. You can also add window tinting or a spray-in bed liner. You can even cover the whole vehicle in a spray-on protective coating that gives it a tough matte finish. Other dads will envy your bad-assitude.
Con: Cobalt and Lithium Mining
Mining for cobalt and lithium, essential components of EV batteries, has raised environmental and human rights concerns. Miners often contact with toxic substances and the environmental aftermath of mining is severe.
Con: How They Generate Electricity To Charge
The environmental benefits of EVs depend heavily on how they generate the electricity they need to charge. The overall emissions from coal, natural gas, or other fossil-fueled power plants attributable to the vehicle could be higher than a conventional car.
Con: Range, Charging Time, and Scarce Charging Infrastructure
Electric vehicles typically have a shorter range than their gas counterparts. Moreover, hauling heavy loads can cut this range in half. Charging times are also longer, and charging stations can be few and far between, especially in rural areas where the ability to travel long distances without stopping to recharge is a necessity.
Con: Weight and Weather Extremes
Electric vehicles are heavier due to their batteries, which can affect handling. Additionally, extreme heat or cold can significantly reduce the battery’s performance and range.
Con: Affordability and Cost of Battery Replacement
Finally, electric SUVs and pickups tend to be more expensive upfront than traditional vehicles. Plus, while maintenance costs might be lower, the cost of replacing the battery is high, even if you take good care of it.
Balancing these pros and cons of electric SUVs and pickups against your personal needs and circumstances will help you make an informed decision.
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