Every day, someone joins the elite group of electric car owners. It used to be a small number that would risk driving an electric vehicle.
With the advancements of modern tech that make EVs much more relevant, it’s no wonder these options are getting more attention.
Well-known companies like Tesla, Hyundai, and Toyota have devoted tons of resources to release hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles. Other major auto brands are joining suit with the release of the Ford Lighting (an electric pickup truck), Dodge eMuscle (fully electric muscle car), and the Chevy Corvette (electric sports car).
Big-name car manufacturers aren’t the only ones adding electric car owners into the fold. International startups like Arrival SA, Fisker Inc, and Abelson are making waves with their innovative designs and commitment to raising the electric bar.
The Rise of the Electric Car
Electric cars have taken a front seat in the auto world for a variety of reasons. The idea of an emission-free and efficient vehicle has always been a popular idea. Options like the Toyota Prius, for example, gained popularity for its incredible fuel efficiency numbers.
The rising costs and limited amounts of fuel have also pushed innovators to come up with a better way to power our vehicles. The challenge was that early EV models didn’t have the range to make them practical for most drivers.
The advancement of technology has given electric car owners the ability to go farther and faster than ever before. New EV trucks and SUVs have horsepower and torque numbers that break 1,000. The Tesla Model S is able to hit 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds, and new EVs are able to break 300 miles on a single charge.
Extra Perks for Electric Car Owners
Many countries are encouraging their drivers to consider EVs. One way of doing this is to offer tax breaks or other tax incentives. The United States, for example, has programs that allow up to $7,500 in tax savings for plug-in vehicles. You can also find additional incentives in places like California or Georgia, where clean energy vehicles are given extra tax credits.
New Zealand is an excellent example of a country that is pushing eco-friendly cars. Electric car owners are given $8,625 off of a new electric car or $3,450 off of a used EV. Germany is even subsidizing EVs up to 9,000 euros.
Which Country Lead The Way?
While 13 countries have pushed electric vehicles past 10% of new vehicle sales in 2020, there are five countries that really stand out.
- Finland
- The Netherlands
- Sweden
- Iceland
- Norway
It’s no surprise that the majority of these countries are in the same region. Other countries in these areas, like Denmark and Switzerland, are also in the top ten. These are all countries that focus on things like tax and toll exceptions, financial incentives, and progressive policies that favor green energy.
Other parts of the world are working to catch up, though. Here in the United States, there’s still some room to grow. With new models coming out every year and manufacturer commitments to create more options in the coming years, it won’t be long before the group of electric car owners isn’t so exclusive anymore.
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