The reality is that all new cars cost more than they used to. The difference often comes down to operating costs. Charging and maintenance costs tend to be lower over time, which can make EVs more affordable depending on how you drive.

Yes, and options are growing. As more early EV owners trade in for newer models and leases end, the used market continues to expand, and you might find a great deal.

Charging at home in South Carolina is typically lower cost than filling up with gas and is less likely to fluctuate like gas prices do. Many EV drivers report that fully charging your EV at home can cost $10-$15 depending on the size of your battery, compared to $50+ to fill up your gas tank. Your electricity bill may increase but will be offset by not paying for gas.

Battery replacement can be expensive, but it is uncommon. Many EV drivers report that their batteries last more than 200,000 miles without significant degradation.

Fully electric vehicles run only on electricity with no gas required. Plug-in hybrids use both electricity and gas, switching between the two as needed. If you want to drive without gas at all, you’re looking for a fully electric vehicle.

Many newer EVs can go 200 to 300+ miles on a full charge. That’s enough for most daily driving and many day trips.

High speeds, extreme temperatures, mountainous terrain, and how much weight you’re carrying can all negatively impact your EV’s range. Highway driving and towing will use more range than short, local trips.

Cold weather can reduce an EV’s range because low temperatures slow the physical and chemical reactions inside the battery that help produce power. Drivers may also use more energy to heat the cabin.

Extreme heat can affect battery health and driving range, too. High temperatures may cause EV battery systems to overheat, which can damage cells over time and reduce battery lifespan. That said, most new EVs use active thermal management systems to help cool the battery cells and protect long-term performance. Because that cooling uses additional energy, drivers may see a reduction in range during periods of extreme heat.

Many EV drivers choose to install a Level 2 charger at home, which requires an electrician, but can fully charge your EV overnight. Some manufacturers also provide an EV charger that you can plug into a standard outlet (Level 1). Although using a Level 1 charger takes more time, it could work if you typically drive less than 30 miles a day. Learn more about charging at home via PlugStar.

There are more than 200 fast charging stations located across the state, mostly along major highways and highly populated community areas. Add in public, Level 2 charging, and South Carolina has nearly 700 charging stations across the state. For more information on EV charging locations, visit the Department of Energy’s AFDC website.

It depends on the charger. Standard outlet (Level 1) is slow, adding about 3 miles of range for each hour of charging.. Level 2, 220v charging is the most common for at-home charging and can fully charge your battery overnight. Fast charging will add 60-80% of your range in 20-30 minutes. Learn more about charging via Plugstar.

In most cases, EVs require less maintenance than gas vehicles because they have fewer parts. There’s no oil to change and no transmission fluid or spark plugs to swap out. Routine care still includes tires, brakes, and basic service.

Most are designed to last many years. Federal warranties typically cover batteries for 8 years or 100,000 miles.

There are EVs in most vehicle types, from sedans to SUVs and trucks. Many also offer extra legroom and storage space due to how the battery is positioned. Visit Plugstar to find the best option for you.

Some can, but towing reduces range. Lighter loads are manageable but heavier towing, like large trailers or boats, will likely see your total range cut in half.

EVs meet the same safety standards as gas vehicles and perform well in crash testing.

Many EVs include features like large infotainment displays, one-pedal driving, mobile apps for charging and climate control and driver-assist systems that take much of the energy out of driving long distances.

Scout Motors, BMW, Volvo, Redwood Materials and other EV supply-chain leaders are helping bring new investment to communities across South Carolina. Together, these companies have announced $14.2 billion in investment and 14,750 anticipated manufacturing jobs across EV assembly, parts, charging infrastructure, batteries, mineral processing and battery recycling.