Choosing to care for your community as a neighbor and consumer is a year-round commitment. National Drive Electric Week, taking place from Sept. 22-Oct. 1, highlights how owning an electric vehicle (EV) can contribute to a better tomorrow. For Pittsburgh residents, making the switch to electric can be beneficial in more ways than one.
Incentives for Making the Switch to EV
Consumers want to switch from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles to electric ones for many reasons. A desire to contribute positively to environmental protection is at the top of many people’s lists. Driving an EV or hybrid vehicle reduces harmful emissions and helps keep your community cleaner. Most EVs are also fun to drive; the battery-powered acceleration makes most traditional engines seem slow, and the low center of gravity in an EV means they’re easy to handle in tight spots.
Financial Gains
Although electric vehicles often come at a high price point, several financial incentives make switching a good option for many consumers. While both gas and electric prices are rising, the per-mile investment is almost always better for EVs. Many states, including Pennsylvania, offer purchase incentives for EVs and hybrid cars. The state’s Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program has recently changed to provide income-based incentives to make EVs available to more working-class families. Federal tax incentives can be combined with local rebates to make the purchase even more appealing. The newest federal guidelines give up to $7,500 in tax credit for new EVs; check this database as you shop to see which vehicles fit the credit guidelines.
Going Electric in Pittsburgh
Switching to an electric vehicle as a Pittsburgh resident gets easier every year. The city routinely adds new charging stations, including fast-charge and free locations. You can easily find one of the 800+ current stations with this locator app and keep up to date on new additions. Duquesne Light Co. is currently working with local groups to continue adding more charging stations across town, especially in residential areas that don’t have easy at-home charging options.
Many local businesses and government agencies are also exploring the switch to EVs for their fleets. As more large organizations adopt EVs, the city’s infrastructure will have to keep pace, and individual EV owners will benefit. Duquesne Light Co. works closely with businesses as they switch to EVs and provides grants and rebates for those locations that also install charging stations.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Once you’ve decided to go electric, you still have several choices ahead; the market in 2023 offers many more EV options than in years past. The best EV for your family will depend on your estimated weekly mileage, desired vehicle size, price point, and availability of government credits. From budget to luxury, we have 10 of the best 2023 options to get your search started.
Best Electric Cars
The EV market started with compact cars, and this class is where the industry continues to focus much of its innovation.
Chevrolet Bolt
MSRP: $25,600-$28,800
Max rebate: $7,500
MPGe: 131
This EV is one of the best for budget-conscious consumers. For a small vehicle, the interior is spacious and offers ample cargo room. This zippy car is fun to drive and has superior range (but can get bumpy in the back!).
Nissan Leaf
MSRP: $28,000-$36,000
Max rebate: $7,500
MPGe: 123
If you’re looking for top-notch safety and technology features with an accessible price point, the Nissan Leaf is a good option. Its range is shorter than competitors, but the spacious interior is a selling point.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
MSRP: $41,600-$56,000
Max rebate: $0
This model is new for 2023 and introduces a spacious, high-tech interior and a long-range battery. The rear headroom and trunk space are limited, but the smooth ride is a bonus for those longer drives.
Tesla Model 3
MSRP: $44,000-$54,000
Max rebate: $7,500
MPGe: 138
Tesla dominates the luxury EV market, and the Model 3 is an excellent entry vehicle into this category. It has a superior driving range and an upscale interior and can take advantage of the Tesla Supercharger network and Autopilot feature.
BMW i4
MSRP: $51,000-$67,000
Max rebate: $0
MPGe: 109
BMW is quickly becoming a competitor in the luxury EV market. The i4 series has a long-range battery and a spacious, elegant interior. The quick acceleration and easy handling make this model a treat to drive, even on bumpy roads.
Best Electric SUVs
Families overwhelmingly prefer SUVs, and the EV market is quickly trying to keep pace.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
MSRP: $27,000-$32,000
Max rebate: $7,500
MPGe: 125
Like its slightly-smaller counterpart, the Bolt electric utility vehicle is an excellent buy for the money. It’s one of the smaller SUVs, but with ample cargo space, a roomy back seat, and excellent handling, it should top your list.
Subaru Solterra
MSRP: $45,000-$52,000
Max rebate: $0
This SUV lacks the long driving range of its competitors, but it’s one of the only EVs well-suited for off-road adventuring with its AWD and high clearance.
Rivian R1S
MSRP: $78,000-$90,000
Max rebate: $3,750
MPGe: 69
This Rivian model is high on the list of best luxury SUV-EV combinations. The upscale cabin is matched by excellent driving performance and battery range. It’s also one of the only 7-passenger EV options currently on the market.
Best Electric Trucks
Electric trucks are the newest contribution to the EV market. There are several current options, but expect more to roll out in the coming years.
Ford F-150 Lightning
MSRP: $56,000-$97,000
Max rebate: $7,500
MPGe: 76
This version of the popular F-150 has less towing capacity than the gas-powered original but has increased cargo space and a roomy interior. With seating for 5, this pickup truck is a standout option.
Rivian R1T
MSRP: $73,000-$85,000
Max rebate: $3,750
MPGe: 69
If you’re looking for excellent towing and hauling capability with upscale features, the Rivian is a good place to start. Its cargo space is smaller than Ford’s, but the high-end finishes make the price point more manageable.
Making the switch takes an up-front investment, but the benefits to your home and community add up for years to come.
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