Living Electric
A Day in the Life of Owning an Electric Vehicle (EV) in Oklahoma City
Morning: Ready to Roll with a Full Charge
Imagine waking up in Oklahoma City, unplugging your electric vehicle (EV) from the charger at home, and starting your day without worrying about stopping for gas. Overnight, your car charges up while you sleep, and with a Level 2 charger, it's fully charged and ready to go by morning. You skip the gas station and head straight to work or wherever your day takes you.
Commute: Enjoy the Smooth and Quiet Ride
As you drive through OKC, whether it's down I-35 or along Route 66, you'll notice how smooth and quiet your EV feels. Unlike a regular gas-powered car, an EV gives you instant power when you hit the accelerator, so merging onto the highway or pulling away from a stoplight is quick and effortless. Plus, the ride is quieter without an engine roaring under the hood, making your drive more peaceful.
Charging: Convenient and Affordable
If you need to recharge during the day, there are easy options around Oklahoma City:
- At Work: Many workplaces in OKC are starting to offer EV charging stations. You can plug in your car while you’re working, so it’s ready to go when you’re done.
- Public Charging: There are plenty of public charging stations popping up around the metro, whether downtown, at the mall, or near your favorite restaurant. And if you’re on a road trip across the state, fast chargers along the highways can give you a quick boost in just 30 minutes.
Charging your EV is usually cheaper than filling up a gas tank, especially with Oklahoma’s relatively low electricity rates. Plus, you might find free public charging stations in certain areas, saving you even more.
Running Errands: Less Maintenance, More Savings
As you go about your day, running errands around the city, you’ll appreciate how little maintenance your EV needs. No oil changes, no engine tune-ups, and fewer brake repairs because of something called regenerative braking, which actually helps recharge the battery while you slow down. This all adds up to saving time and money in the long run.
Evening: Plug in, Relax, and Recharge
When you get home after a day in OKC, just plug your EV back in, and it’ll be ready for tomorrow. No more last-minute runs to the gas station. Plus, without all the maintenance that comes with gas cars, you’ll have more time to relax in the evening.
Why EVs Are Great for Oklahoma City
Save Money Over Time:
- Lower Fuel Costs: Electricity is cheaper than gas, and if you take advantage of off-peak rates, charging your car can be even more affordable.
- Less Maintenance: With fewer moving parts, EVs don’t need as much upkeep, saving you money on repairs and service.
Good for the Environment:
- No Tailpipe Emissions: EVs help keep Oklahoma’s air cleaner by producing no exhaust emissions. You’re reducing your carbon footprint every time you drive.
- Green Energy: If you have solar panels or use a green energy plan, you can power your car with renewable energy, making it even more environmentally friendly.
Better Driving Experience:
- Smooth and Quiet: Oklahoma’s roads can be rough, but your EV’s smooth ride and quiet cabin make driving more enjoyable.
- Quick Acceleration: EVs give you instant power, making your drives around town or on the highway more fun and responsive.
Modern Technology:
- Latest Features: Many EVs come with the newest tech, like advanced safety features, navigation, and even the ability to get software updates that improve the car over time.
- Regenerative Braking: This tech helps extend your range and reduce wear on the brakes, saving you even more money.
Incentives and Perks:
- Tax Credits and Rebates: Oklahoma residents can take advantage of federal tax credits and sometimes state incentives when buying an EV.
- HOV Lane Access: In some places, EVs can use carpool lanes, even if you’re driving solo, which can be a real time-saver if OKC introduces such lanes in the future.
Final Thoughts
Switching to an EV in Oklahoma City can make your daily life more convenient, save you money, and help you contribute to a cleaner environment. While the initial cost might be a bit higher, the long-term benefits—like lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and a quieter, smoother ride—make EVs a smart choice for Oklahomans looking to the future.