After many months of deliberation, I decided to buy an electric car, a Tesla Model 3. I drove hybrid vehicles for over ten years, and the progression seemed natural and logical. Fast forward six months, and here I am writing a post about a dozen things you should know about electric cars.

Before buying, I did my research.

I looked up YouTube videos, read subreddits, and researched automobile forums that provide insights, opinions, and hacks about electric cars, specifically Tesla. However, until I went through the actual process of buying and owning an electric car, the nuances of EV ownership that applied specifically to me were not apparent.

So, here are a dozen things you should know about electric cars.

Going green comes at a cost

The Model 3 Long-Range trim price is up there with the mid-range BMW and Lexus cars. There is debate whether a Tesla Model 3 can be called a luxury car. While the car has luxury aspects, I would probably put it in the “premium” category.  

Not all EVs are eligible for Government subsidies

I had factored in a Government subsidy of $5K to purchase my Model 3. I was disappointed to find out that the trim I had chosen did not qualify since its price did not fall below the threshold set by the Canadian Government. Make sure that you know what you are getting.

My most expensive online purchase

I bought the car online. Unlike traditional car dealerships, the Tesla service model doesn’t appear to be geared towards getting you back in the workshop for ongoing revenue generation. From ordering the car online to a 15-minute car delivery process, Tesla promotes self-reliance through its app, information sessions, and on-screen manuals. So far, I have not had to call the customer service number for any type of support.

Connectivity can be a recurring cost

While there are no costs for routine maintenance such as oil changes and services, some features in the car come at additional cost. Depending on the EV manufacturer, connectivity charges may apply to stream music, media, and traffic visualization over cellular connectivity embedded in the car. If all you want is to connect your smartphone to your car through Bluetooth, this would not be a problem. The going rate for Tesla’s Premium Connectivity is CAD 13.99 per month.

Let the car do the work

As expected, Full Self Driving (FSD) comes at an incremental cost and will set you back another USD 12K. This feature set is a cancellable monthly subscription in select markets. I have yet to subscribe to FSD but intend to try it at some point.

Charging logistics

While every electric car needs access to charging stations, the logistics around it will vary based on where you live. Homeowners can choose to live with the standard mobile connector that can connect to a 240-volt outlet or cough up the money for a wall connector. Condo-dwellers face a whole different set of challenges. The installation cost for a dedicated charging station in a condo parkade will vary based on the distance from the electric panel and the availability of a pillar in the parking spot. The total cost to bring an electrical connection to my underground parking spot and install a Tesla Wall Connector ran upwards of $5K. Newer multi-dwelling units have started including shared charging stations as part of their amenities which may help keep costs down.

You feel good when you drive by gas stations

The timing of my EV purchase has been great. With gas prices going through the roof, new car buyers should be seriously considering an EV as an option. Due to COVID, my driving has been limited. An EV Management Company meters and bills me the monthly charging costs, which, so far, have been less than my typical gas bills.

Over The Air (OTA) Software updates are a good thing

An electric car is a computer. All computers need software updates and bug fixes. OTA updates fix bugs and add new features to the car at no additional cost. Based on your car manufacturer, software updates may require a Wi-Fi connection for downloads. Since my underground parking spot is not Wi-Fi-friendly, I use the Hot Spot on my smartphone to download the software packages. Installation does not require connectivity and can be scheduled at a convenient time. Fortunately, my mobile phone service includes an attractive data plan that does not dent my pocket.

Battery level and estimated driving range

All batteries drain over time. Electric cars are no different. The car’s battery level indicator, when set to show the driving range in Miles/Kilometres, does not factor in variables such as driving styles, weather conditions, and lack of use. The battery charge as a percentage better indicates how far your vehicle can go without a re-charge.

A dynamic dashboard

With a large display as the dashboard, the car has few physical controls. Getting used to the touch screen app and voice-enabled commands is like learning a new computer interface. Software updates, done over the air, occasionally change where the controls appear on the display screen and can be intimidating and frustrating when you are trying to do something as simple as, “Open the glove box.”

Hang on to your key card

Tesla comes with a key card. However, most Tesla owners set up their smartphones as their primary car key. The car senses the phone’s presence and unlocks the door, similar to other modern car keys. After software updates, the vehicle may require you to use your key card to unlock the car. You do not want to be locked out of your car in the middle of winter.

Regenerative braking

Electric cars are designed to generate power and top up the battery when you brake during driving. Tesla’s regenerative braking can take getting used to. With the car designed to automatically brake when you take your foot off the accelerator, first-time Tesla drivers complain about the experience as nauseating or uncomfortable. I can assure you that you will quickly get used to it and would not want it any other way!

So, there you have it. A dozen things you should know about electric cars.