Electric Vehicles
The Basics

Here's why you should drive an EV.

COST SAVINGS

Most electric vehicles are eligible for EV purchase incentives and grants, allowing consumers to save on upfront costs.

An EV requires very little maintenance due to fewer moving parts and enhanced driving technology, saving you money and time. An EV motor has approximately 20 parts compared to a gasoline vehicle engine with nearly 2,000 parts.

Lastly, charging an EV generally costs less than fueling a gasoline vehicle.

Click here to compare how much an EV would cost to maintain and charge compared to your gasoline vehicle.

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

Driving an EV is not only good for your wallet but for the environment too. An all-electric vehicle emits zero emissions, which significantly reduces GHG emissions and smog, improving the quality of air we breathe.

Transportation accounts for 47% of GHG emissions in Houston, meaning a great opportunity exists to reduce harmful emissions by going electric.

Electrified transportation powered by renewables can reduce emissions by as much as 90%. The results of such a scenario could help prevent a significant number of early deaths and asthma cases per year in Houston.

Click here to measure an electric vehicle's emissions.

FUN TO DRIVE, AND CONVENIENT TO OWN

Electric vehicles are fun and exciting to drive because of their fast acceleration and latest technology.

Without compromising style or performance, EVs are simply more convenient to own. Fewer hassles when it comes to maintenance check-ups; charging your vehicle is as easy as charging your phone; and as an EV driver, you get additional perks like priority parking.

Benefits of Going Electric

What is an EV?

There are three types of electric vehicles.

HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE (HEV)

Hybrid electric vehicles are powered by a gasoline/diesel engine and an electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery. The battery is charged by the internal combustion engine (ICE) and through regenerative braking. The vehicle cannot be plugged in to charge.

PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE (PHEV)

PHEVs have a larger battery that provides a better range. The battery can be charged by plugging into an electric power source, through regenerative braking, and by the ICE. Unlike all-electric vehicles, PHEVs don’t need to be plugged in and can be fueled solely with gasoline, like an HEV. Plugging in is recommended to achieve maximum fuel economy and to experience all the benefits of the all-electric capabilities.

BATTERY ELECTRIC VEHICLE (BEV)

BEVs run on electricity alone. They are powered by an electric motor that uses energy stored in a battery (larger than the batteries in an HEV or PHEV). EV batteries are charged by plugging the vehicle into an electric power source and through regenerative braking.

Say goodbye to gas stations.

Driving an EV means fewer stops at a gas station or none at all.

EV charging

So, how do you charge an EV?

There are three levels of EV charging.

LEVEL 1 CHARGING

Level 1 charging uses a 120-volt current found in standard household outlets. To charge, drivers plug in their vehicle using the power cord and equipment that most EVs come with.

This means a level 1 charger requires no installation! That said, it charges your vehicle at a slower rate, averaging at approximately 40miles overnight.

LEVEL 2 CHARGING

Level 2 charging uses 240-volt power to replenish the EV’s battery faster. This requires the installation of an EV charging unit. Our Grants Tool summarizes all available grants to subsidize EV charging installation costs.

Interested in learning how much a level 2 charger home installation costs? Click here to learn more.

Some home chargers and most public charging stations are “Level 2.” It has the ability to replenish approximately 40 miles in 2 hours.

DC FAST CHARGING

In less than an hour, DC fast charging may provide compatible vehicles with an 80% charge. Because of the high-cost DC fast charging is typically not installed for residential use.

Almost all EVs are compatible, but EV drivers should always be aware of their charging connector before plugging in.

There are three types of DC Fast Charging connectors: CHAdeMO, SAE Combined Charging System (Combo/CCS), and the Tesla Supercharger.