The Rise of High-Mileage Electric Vehicles
As summer rolls in, the automotive market is experiencing a unique shift. While new cars remain expensive, used electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly attractive, especially with the $4,000 used electric-vehicle tax credit set to expire on September 30. This has led to a surge in deals on newer EVs, including models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Polestar 2, and Tesla Model 3.
However, one pressing question arises: what if you come across an EV with over 100,000 miles on the odometer? Or even more? This topic was recently explored on the latest episode of The Plugged-In Podcast, where the hosts delved into the viability of high-mileage EVs.
The Evolution of Battery Technology
Modern advancements in battery technology have significantly improved the longevity and efficiency of EVs. According to reports from InsideEVs, studies show that higher-mileage EVs often maintain the same efficiency as newer models. Their batteries degrade far less than previously thought, and they continue to deliver impressive range even beyond the 100,000-mile mark.
This development addresses some of the most common concerns about EV ownership: battery lifespan and replacement costs. In many cases, these issues may not be as significant as people believe. Unlike gas-powered vehicles, which tend to lose efficiency and power over time due to mechanical wear, EVs can maintain their performance for longer periods.
A New Perspective on Car Ownership
If an EV’s other components—such as the suspension, brakes, and tires—are in good condition, and it hasn’t been involved in any accidents or suffered damage, then mileage might no longer be a major concern. This could revolutionize the way we think about car ownership, making high-mileage EVs a viable and cost-effective option.
Other Topics Discussed on the Podcast
In addition to the discussion on high-mileage EVs, the podcast also covered several other relevant topics:
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Slate Auto’s Electric Truck: The hosts examined whether the electric truck will remain a good deal once the EV tax credits end. With competition from models like the Ford Maverick, the future of this vehicle remains uncertain.
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Rivian CEO’s Comments: Rivian’s CEO, RJ Scaringe, highlighted how traditional automakers are seen as barriers to the transition to electric vehicles. This sparked a conversation about the challenges facing the industry.
What’s Next for the EV Market?
As the EV market continues to evolve, several key questions remain:
- Will the new Nissan Leaf become an affordable hit, or will it be too rare to matter?
- How will the ongoing feud between Trump and Musk impact Tesla’s future direction?
- Is the Tesla Robotaxi a true revolution, or another potential disaster?
- Can we expect more affordable EVs like the $8,000 BYD Seagull in the near future?
The Future of Transportation
With each passing day, the landscape of transportation is changing rapidly. As more consumers consider EVs, the industry must adapt to meet demand while ensuring reliability and affordability. The insights shared on The Plugged-In Podcast provide valuable perspectives on these evolving trends.
For those interested in learning more, the podcast is available on various platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. Subscribers are encouraged to leave reviews and share their thoughts on EVs, buying strategies, and the future of transportation. Listeners can also reach out directly via email at [email protected] to submit questions for future episodes.
