EV myth: “EVs are not practical for the everyday driver and they only come in sedans”

In this episode of Your EV Power Source podcast, hosts Scott Barrios and Amy Flower are joined by Matt Candler, Founder of My Next Electric and Night Shift Bikes. They debunk misconceptions and highlight the benefits of EVs, such as lower maintenance and higher efficiency. Matt also shares factors to consider when buying an EV, summarized by the CARMA acronym, as well as how affordable EVs and creative innovation can transform our roads.

Mentioned in this episode:
My Next Electric Website
Night Shift Bikes Website
EV models available in America

Connect with the guest:
Matt Candler’s Website
Matt Candler on LinkedIn
Matt Candler on Instagram

Considering switching to electric:

Calculate savings, find chargers near you and learn about more resources to help make switching to electric easy at https://emobility.entergy.com/

Learn more about incentives for EV charging infrastructure for Entergy customers at https://emobility.entergy.com/residential

Episode Highlights:

[07:13] - As the EV market rapidly evolves, the gap between the cost of EVs and gasoline cars is narrowing more quickly than anticipated, signaling a promising shift toward affordability and accessibility for consumers. In just a couple of years, the price premium of electric cars over their gasoline counterparts has dropped from 15% to 4%, a shift driven by technological advances, especially in battery efficiency and manufacturing.
[10:16] - Embracing EVs not only aligns with our individual needs but also offers significant cost savings over the vehicle's lifespan. With drastically fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, EVs promise lower maintenance costs, enhanced efficiency, and a cleaner environmental footprint. However, it's important to note that while initial purchase prices are becoming more competitive, the total cost of ownership may vary, especially considering maintenance and potential body repair costs.
[15:52] - When considering an EV for your needs, remember about CARMA - a simple acronym to guide your buying experience. Start with C for consideration of charging options and infrastructure. A stands for affordability, while R for range, which is crucial for determining how far you can travel on a single charge. M stands for models, choosing an EV that fits your style and needs. Lastly, A stands for awareness, highlighting the need to educate yourself about EV technology.
[23:31] - Electric vehicles offer an exciting, affordable, and sustainable future for transportation, especially for those who feel the burden of high vehicle costs. Manufacturers like Tesla and Rivian are pioneering the direct-to-consumer sales model, highlighting a shift towards EVs that don't require traditional dealerships. However, the real game-changer lies in making EVs accessible to all, not just those who can afford luxury models. The challenge has been the cost associated with battery technology. But as we innovate and scale, small, efficient city cars with modest ranges become more viable, fun, and affordable.
[38:22] - Considering the switch to EVs might seem daunting, but it's really about embracing a curious mindset and taking it one step at a time. Remember, EVs have their own advantages, like a more efficient motor, compared to traditional cars. Start by understanding the basic differences and how an EV might fit into your daily life. Discuss your current vehicle usage and identify which one could be replaced with an EV, aiming for both stress reduction and savings.