UTAH ENERGY HUB

Ditch the tailpipe!

Make the switch to electric vehicles

Electric Vehicle FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Vehicles

Have questions about electric vehicles? Read on to see answers to our most frequently asked questions. Don’t see the answer to your question? Contact us 

What is the difference between Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and All Electric Vehicles?

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) have both electric and gasoline capabilities while All-Electric Vehicles (EVs) use only electricity. PHEVs typically have a shorter electric range. When the battery is depleted, the hybrid gasoline engine kicks in. All-Electric vehicles have larger batteries that provide a longer range (150+ miles) powered only by electricity.

How do you measure the efficiency of an EV?

The efficiency of gasoline vehicles is measured in miles per gallon (MPG), but for electric vehicles use the term “miles per gallon equivalent” (MPGe). You can read more about the efficiency of EVs and PHEVs on fueleconomy.gov.

What is the lifetime of an EV?

According to the Union of Concerned Scientists “electric-drive vehicles have many components that will likely last even longer than a typical gasoline car, both because they have fewer moving parts and because they don’t operate at the high temperatures of an internal combustion engine. Expectations are that maintenance should end up simpler for all-electric vehicles.”

Is it better to power your vehicle with electricity from the grid rather than gasoline?

Vehicles are a major contributor to a certain type of pollution known as particulate pollution, or “PM 2.5”, emitting 48% of Utah’s criteria air pollutants (the most harmful types of air pollution). By transitioning our traditional polluting vehicles to cleaner, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars, we can tackle a big part of Utah’s air quality problem. According to a 2013 analysis conducted by SWEEP and Utah Clean Energy “all electric” vehicles produce 99% lower emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), 95% less sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions, 76% less nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions as compared to a new gasoline vehicle. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles reduces emissions significantly as well.

In addition to air quality benefits, EVs result in greenhouse gas emissions reductions — even when they are charged partially using coal or natural gas from the grid. A recent report from the Union of Concerned Scientists finds that the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions from EVs are at least 50% less than comparable gasoline vehicles. The emissions associated with manufacturing EVs are slightly higher than gasoline vehicles, but once in operation EVs contribute significantly less emissions. The reduction in emissions from operating an EV can make up for the emissions from manufacturing it in as little as one year.  After its useful life the battery can be reused or recycled, further reducing the climate impacts of EVs when compared to gasoline vehicles. You can read the full report here, and you can compare EV emission with gasoline vehicle emissions with this calculator from the Union of Concerned Scientists.   

It is also important to point out the synergy of combining EVs with renewable energy, and in particular rooftop solar. When the electricity that charges your EV comes from solar energy you’re essentially driving carbon-free. In addition, pairing solar and an EV shorten the payback period on the initial investment for both the vehicle and the solar installation. You can read more about the benefits of combining solar and EVs here.

How do EVs improve air quality?

Poor air quality is the result of the unique geography of the Salt Lake Valley coupled with pollution generated from transportation, industry, and buildings. “Mobile sources” of air pollution (like vehicles) are a major contributor to a certain type of pollution known as particulate pollution, or “PM 2.5”, emitting 48% of Utah’s criteria air pollutants (the most harmful types of air pollution). By transitioning our traditional polluting vehicles to cleaner, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid cars, we can tackle a big part of Utah’s air quality problem. According to the Department of Energy According to a 2013 analysis conducted by SWEEP and Utah Clean Energy “all electric” vehicles produce 99% lower emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), 95% less sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions, 76% less nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions as compared to a new gasoline vehicle. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles reduces emissions significantly as well.

Do EVs contribute to global climate change emissions?

recent report from the Union of Concerned Scientists finds that the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions from EVs are at least 50% less than comparable gasoline vehicles. The emissions associated with manufacturing EVs are slightly higher than gasoline vehicles, but once in operation EVs contribute significantly less emissions — even when charged from the grid, which includes fossil fuel generation. The reduction in emissions from operating an EV can make up for the emissions from manufacturing it in as little as one year. After its useful life the battery can be reused or recycled, further reducing the climate impacts of EVs when compared to gasoline vehicles. You can read the full report here, and you can compare EV emission with gasoline vehicle emissions with this calculator from the Union of Concerned Scientists.      

About Batteries & Charging

Can I charge my EV at home?

Yes, you can charge your EV at home with either a standard 120 volt AC outlet, or you can have a 240 volt AC (the same as your electric clothes dryer) EV charging station installed. The primary difference between the two is the amount of time it takes to charge the batteries. A 240 volt at home charging station can fully charge the batteries from empty to full in 3-4 hours, where a standard 120 volt outlet may take overnight to fully charge the batteries.

How do I charge my EV on the go?

There are a few different options for charging on the go. There are both Level II and Level III charging stations available for public use. Level II charging is done with 240 volts and can fully charge a battery in 3-4 hours. Level III charging uses 480 volts to charge your batteries in as little as 30 minutes. Some public stations can be used free of charge while others require payment or subscription. To help you locate a charging station there are several websites and apps that tell you where to find nearby stations. You can read more about Utah’s growing charging infrastructure here.  

How long does it take to charge an EV?

There are three different levels of charging and each charges the batteries at a different rate. Level I charging can be done with a standard 120 volt AC household outlet, and takes several hours to fully charge the batteries. Level II charging uses 240 volts to charge the batteries in 3-4 hours. And Level III charging uses 480 volts to charge the batteries in as little as 30 minutes.

Can I charge my EV with a regular household outlet?

Yes, you can charge the batteries with a standard household 120 volt AC outlet. This is called Level I charging, and it requires charging overnight to reach a full charge. There are also Level II and Level III charging options that take 3-4 hours or only 30 minutes, respectively. 

How much does it cost to charge an EV?

On average, it costs about half as much to power an EV compared to fueling a traditional gasoline powered vehicle. It will vary depending on how much driving you do, how efficient your electric vehicle model is, and the rate that you typically pay for electricity and gasoline. In general, gasoline is much more expensive than electricity (twice as much on average), so EV owners end up saving money when switching from gasoline powered vehicles. You can calculate the savings of going electric with the Department of Energy’s eGallon calculator. You can also compare the savings between EVs and gasoline powered vehicles with the Department of Energy’s Fuel Cost and Savings Calculator

How long do the batteries last?

Recent studies by the National Renewable Energy Lab indicate that batteries may have a usable lifetime of 10 to 15 years, and many manufacturers are offering 8-year/100,000 mile warranties on batteries. 

How can I compare yearly costs between normal cars and EVs?

The University of California, Davis has created an app called EV Explorer which allows you compare the annual energy (fuel) costs for your daily commute. It has an extensive library of cars, as well as the ability for you to customize the tool to reflect local gas and energy prices. It’s also an eye-opening way to see how much money you can save by switching to an EV. Find the tool here.

About EV Maintenance

How do the maintenance requirements differ from traditional gasoline vehicles?

EVs have much fewer moving parts, and don’t operate at the same high temperatures as gasoline powered vehicles. That means fewer breakdowns and less maintenance. You can read more about EV maintenance requirements on the Department of Energy’s EV maintenance page.

Do EVs have special access to HOV lanes?

Yes, EV drivers can apply for a Clean Fuel Vehicle Decal (C Decal) with the Utah Department of Transportation. Currently there is a waiting list to receive a C Decal. Learn more and apply for a C Decal at the DOT website here. EV drivers may also apply for a Green Vehicle permit to receive free 2 hour parking within Salt Lake City.

How do maintenance costs compare to gasoline powered vehicles?

Reports show that maintenance costs are about 1/3 that of a typical gasoline powered vehicle. According to the Alternative Fuels Data Center, EVs typically require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because:

  • The battery, motor, and associated electronics require little to no regular maintenance
  • There are fewer fluids to change
  • Brake wear is significantly reduced due to regenerative braking
  • There are far fewer moving parts compared to a conventional gasoline engine

Pricing & Incentive Information

What tax credits are available for EVs?

There is a federal tax credit for purchasing or leasing EVs. The federal tax credit is up to $7,500 based on battery capacity. You can read more about the federal tax credit here. Consult with a tax attorney regarding your eligibility for the aforementioned tax credits.

Can you take advantage of the tax credits if you choose to lease?

Yes – the federal tax credit is claimed by the dealer or leasing company, but savings are passed onto the lessee via lower monthly payments. You can read more about the federal tax credit for EVs here. Consult with a tax attorney regarding your eligibility for the aforementioned tax credits.

Don’t see your question here? Please contact us.

The recently approved Inflation Reduction Act has made some information on this website outdated. We are working to update ASAP. In the meantime, please consult a tax expert on all incentives and rebates listed.