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Will an electric vehicle fit your lifestyle?

What to consider before making the switch

You're likely well aware of the many benefits of driving an electric vehicle (EV), but may still be wondering if it's the right choice for you. 

We’re here to help you weigh out the various factors – including how you’ll use the vehicle, purchase price, rebates, long term savings, and practicality – to help you make an informed decision. 

Questions to consider

Ask yourself these questions to understand if an EV is currently right for you and your lifestyle. 

  • Maybe you decided you wanted to buy an EV to help reduce your environmental footprint. Perhaps you’re looking to save money on gas for school runs or a long commute?

    Or are you dreaming about a Tesla: sustainable, futuristic, able to accelerate faster than most supercars, and capable of longer distances on one charge?

    Knowing exactly why you want an EV and what benefits you're expecting will ultimately help you make a decision that you'll be happy with for years to come.

  • There’s a growing number of different EV models available in B.C., now including many 5-seater SUVs. 

    If you’re looking for a fully electric vehicle that can carry more people (6+) or big cargo, options are still slim in B.C., but do include Tesla’s Model X and Model Y. However, Canada is eagerly anticipating delivery of other large SUVs and electric pickup trucks starting in 2022, like the Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning. 

    For now though, check out your plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) options instead. Kia, Chrysler, Volvo and others currently all offer PHEVs suited to larger families.

  • Home charging is by far the most popular way to charge an EV. Many owners just plug into a standard electric outlet, even if they need an extension cord to make it happen. Others want a much faster charge, and invest in installing a Level 2 charger at home.

    Some stratas have jumped at the chance to provide charging options for apartment/condo owners, but many are still working on it. If you're in that situation, check out the EV rebates for apartment/condo buildings, and Metro Vancouver's evcondo.ca for ideas and advice.

    Public charging

    Of course, you can also take advantage of the over 2,500 public EV charging stations across the province, many of which are fast chargers. A fast charger can charge the average EV battery to 80% in 30 to 40 minutes. 

    Learn more about EV charging

    fast-charging-EV

  • There's no doubt that in B.C., the combination of significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs makes switching to an EV add up to big long-term savings. But with any big purchase, it’s important consider all the costs of long-term ownership. Particularly for an EV, it’s also important to know how to look after your battery.

Charging an EV at home

EV range infographic

Find out how far you can go

EVs are capable of travelling greater and greater distances on a single charge (BEVs) plus a full tank of gas (PHEVs). To help you decide which EV might be suitable for you, we’ve put together this handy infographic so you can easily compare ranges for a selection of EV models currently available in B.C.

Compare vehicle range

 Battery range
 Fuel range
Mini Cooper SE 3 Door
177km
Volkswagen e-Golf
198km
BMW i3
246km
Nissan Leaf SV
349km
Kia Soul EV Limited
383km
Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus
401km
Hyundai Kona Electric
415km
Chevrolet Bolt
417km
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
498km
35km electric | 463km fuel
Tesla Model 3 Long Range
518km
Honda Clarity
552km
77km electric | 475km fuel
Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
747km
34km electric | 713km fuel
Volvo XC60 PHEV
808km
27km electric | 781km fuel
Chrysler Pacifica PHEV
835km
51km electric | 784km fuel
Kia Optima PHEV
1007km
45km electric | 962km fuel
Hyundai iONIQ Electric Plus
1008km
47km electric | 961km fuel

Data used in this infographic is based on 2020 vehicle models.

Model year data and manufacturer data may differ. Always check with the manufacturer or dealership.

Range information is based on ideal weather/road conditions, ideal driver behaviour and a new, fully charged battery pack.

Related content

How much does owning an EV cost?

Find out

EV models available in B.C.

Know your options

Taking a road trip in an EV

Hit the road

Quick Links

  • Home EV charger options
  • BC Hydro EV mobile app
  • Fast charger help centre

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Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350. 

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 
Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

If installed at an apartment/condo or workplace, this networked charger may be eligible for a rebate. 

Rebates for apartments/condos

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $1,400 to $2,000 per charger.

Rebate amounts vary depending on factors such as whether or not the building is participating in other EV Ready rebates.

Rebates for workplaces

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $2,000 per charger.

Pre-approval from BC Hydro is required for apartment/condo and workplace customers. Program maximums apply.

Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350.

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 

Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

Features

Load management: Allows multiple EV chargers to share the same electrical circuit, allowing the charging power to be distributed across each charger.

Networked: A networked charging station that is connected to a central system via internet communication such as open protocol (e.g. OCPP, OpenADR or other) or a proprietary system (must be connected to a network for minimum of two years).

Multiple ports: Allows multiple vehicles to charge at the same time.

CSA Certification: Tested and certified electric vehicle charging and components by CSA Group. 

cETL Certification: Compliant with North American safety standards and tested/certified by Intertek.

cUL Certification: Compliant with Canadian safety standards by UL Canada.

Breaker Current

Every circuit breaker has specified amperage (amount of current). The rating is the labelled on the breaker. Understanding your electrical service and panel is important in determining the type of EV charger you can support.

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