Author: Jadde Ullman

Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

Find out if an EV could be right for you!

Our new EV education tool, developed in partnership with Scout Environmental will help you understand more about the realities of EV ownership and how adoption can work for anyone from any lifestyle!

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The Long Distance Traveler

Name: Rod

EV Owner Since: 2021

EV: Volkswagen ID4 Pro S AWD

What made you choose an EV?

First and foremost, to reduce my carbon footprint. It feels good to know you’ve made a change that will positively impact the environment.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

I didn’t have to make any changes when it came to local driving. Charge at night, hop in and drive like I normally would. When it comes to long distance travel, I like to use apps like A Better Route before we travel to map out our route.

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

Typically, the response is positive. A lot of drivers are surprised when I highlight the cost-savings associated with EV. When you add how easy it is to adopt charging into your routine and the low-maintenance that comes with EV, people are pleasantly surprised!

What is your typical charging routine?

I charge exclusively at home using my Level 2 charger. Because I own a Volkswagen, I like to use Electrify America or Electrify Canada fast-charging networks for long distance travel. They are owned by Volkswagen.

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

Like I mentioned, I like to charge exclusively at home over night, this is a cost savings on electricity as well as peace of mind that our vehicle is always charged.

When it comes to travel outside of the city, I do think we have some work to do. Our networks along major routes need a bit of work. As more and more people switch to EV’s, the demand for a strong network grows. We’re heading in the right direction.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

We drove from Mesa, Arizona to Cobourg and back three times without any issues. Each trip is roughly 3,400 kilometers one-way.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

Yes! I’m saving roughly $200 a month on gas. My insurance actually went down about 20% and I’m 12,00km service free!

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

Like I mentioned before, we have a bit of work todo on the state of the network – but we’re getting there!

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

Reducing my carbon footprint. I feel good driving knowing I’m making a small difference in the overall well-being of our planet. I love that I don’t have to go to smelly gas stations anymore and can conveniently charge at home.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

I would encourage everyone to do their part and make the switch. We need to take care of our planet. There are lots of EV drivers out there, connect with other drivers and learn from their experiences!

Still not sure if an EV is right for you?

Together with Scout Environmental, we’ve developed a unique digital experience designed to help you understand more about electric vehicles and find out if there is a model that works for your lifestyle!

Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

Find out if an EV could be right for you!

Our new EV education tool, developed in partnership with Scout Environmental will help you understand more about the realities of EV ownership and how adoption can work for anyone from any lifestyle!

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The New Seasoned Driver

Name: Helm

EV Owner Since: 2018

EV: Tesla Model Y

What made you choose an EV?

I use my vehicle for personal and business use so finding something that was cost effective was important. It is also a great conversation starter! People love to learn more about EV’s.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

I’ve been driving electric for a long time so I’ve seen a lot of change over the years when it comes to charging stations. Early on, I had to do a lot of mapping for my routes, especially when I was travelling in rural areas. Tesla made travel much easier now with longer range in the newer models.

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

I always get a positive reaction! I find people want to learn more about it and love to talk about electric vehicles.

What is your typical charging routine?

I would say 95% of my charging is done at home or at my office.

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

I live in a small town and we only have two Level 2 charging stations. I know large cities and towns have more stations and options available.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

My longest trip was to North Carolina and it was around 1,370km one way.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

Lots of savings! Gas, maintenance, the list goes on.

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

Because I live in a small town, there is limited access to public charging stations.

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

One of the best parts – no stopping at the gas station! My car is quiet and great to drive. I love that I can charge up at home and I don’t have to worry about filling up at a gas station.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

Keep an open mind! There are lots of options out there for driving these days, why not choose EV?

Still not sure if an EV is right for you?

Together with Scout Environmental, we’ve developed a unique digital experience designed to help you understand more about electric vehicles and find out if there is a model that works for your lifestyle!

Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

Find out if an EV could be right for you!

Our new EV education tool, developed in partnership with Scout Environmental will help you understand more about the realities of EV ownership and how adoption can work for anyone from any lifestyle!

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The New Owner

Name: Ibrahim

EV Owner Since: 2022

EV: Hyundai Ioniq 5

What made you choose an EV?

Cost-savings was top of mind and driving EV would mean saving on fuel costs. Of course, I want to reduce my impact on the environment. For me personally, I love new technology and have always been interested in EV’s.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

I no longer visit gas stations! I’m really happy about how comfortable my new vehicle is and how quiet it is! Canadian winters are cold and I love the ability to heat my car up in the garage before leaving on a cold winter morning.

In terms of driving, it does require some planning. You have to be aware of your range, check the routes for stations, and be prepared to stop and charge. With today’s technology, it’s never been easier to to look up the nearest charging station online and plan your route!

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

Reactions do vary. I find a lot of people are curious about EV’s and ask a lot of questions about the range and fuel savings.

On the other hand, range anxiety does come up, it is a valid worry! But, a lot of people don’t pay attention to charging stations unless you drive EV, so you wouldn’t notice how many there are!

What is your typical charging routine?

My routine looks like this: charge twice a week at work and once at home before the weekend. It works for me.

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

It’s getting better and better but we do need to make suer we have sufficient charging options. I believe more charging stations will encourage more people to drive EV. A lot cities in Durham Region have great charging options. I drive locally and have found some great spots to charge.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

My longest trip was from Oshawa to Ottawa, I made one stop each way with a bit of charging on Montreal. In total, I drove 900km.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

It is important to do your research before buying. They are an investment and can be expensive upfront, but they will result in cost savings over the long term.

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

The long answer is like any new technology there are often some hiccups before finding a balance. Right now, there is some work that needs to be done in regard to charging stations.

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

One of the things I love is the ability to charge at home! And to list a few; fuel savings, quiet and smooth ride, environmentally friendly, and great government incentives to help with the purchase cost.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

There is something out there to fit everyone’s lifestyle – do your research and find what is best for you!

Still not sure if an EV is right for you?

Together with Scout Environmental, we’ve developed a unique digital experience designed to help you understand more about electric vehicles and find out if there is a model that works for your lifestyle!

Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

Find out if an EV could be right for you!

Our new EV education tool, developed in partnership with Scout Environmental will help you understand more about the realities of EV ownership and how adoption can work for anyone from any lifestyle!

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The Local Driver

Name: Marc

EV Owner Since: 2021

EV: Hyundai Kona (Electric)

What made you choose an EV?

We need to lower carbon emissions and with the high costs associated with driving ICE, making the switch to electric was a no brainer.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

It simply requires more planning. You need to be aware of your geographic area and get familiar with planning to charge for long distance travel. That being said, the vast majority of my charging takes place at home.

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

A lot of people have unwarranted concerns about EV’s but I get it, you need to talk to an EV owner to get a true understanding. People are shocked to learn that most of the charging happens at home! I find people often think you need to fully rely on public charging stations when that’s simply not the case.

What is your typical charging routine?

I would say over 90% of my charging happens at home.

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

In more rural areas, it is practically non-existent. On the flip side, charging at home can reduce range anxiety.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

My longest trip so far was 400km.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

For sure! I would say driving an EV is 4 to 5 times cheaper than driving an equivalent ICE vehicle.

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

The biggest challenge is finding charging stations when you’re travelling. If you’re not a big traveler, and looking for a vehicle that is good for local commuting; EV is perfect for you.

When it comes to travel, take the time to plan! Nowadays there are so many resources available to plan a trip driving EV.

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

The freedom of not having to pay for gas! I love being free from the maintenance and costs associated with an ICE vehicle.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

Talk to EV owners. There is a lot of information out there, and a lot of misinformation. Talk to an owner and you will hear first hand experiences and advice so you can make an educated decision.

Personally, I have never regretted buying an EV. I’m saving money while significantly lowering my carbon emissions – win win!

Still not sure if an EV is right for you?

Together with Scout Environmental, we’ve developed a unique digital experience designed to help you understand more about electric vehicles and find out if there is a model that works for your lifestyle!

Who are EV owners? The answer might surprise you…

Take a drive around Oshawa’s city streets and you’re bound to spot vehicles of all shapes and sizes, from two-door coupes to lifted pickup trucks to family-friendly minivans. But one increasingly common type of vehicle has started to stand out – the electric vehicle (EV).

With more than 1,000 EV owners across the city (and hundreds more coming and going from towns across Ontario!), it’s no longer rare to spot an EV cruising Oshawa’s roadways. Whether you spot an EV charging at the Oshawa Centre or your attention is captured by a sleek design and near silent operation, you’ve likely found yourself wondering ‘who are EV owners?’.

The answer? Most likely somebody just like you. Gone are the days when EVs were a radical shift from the landscape of traditional personal transportation adopted only by the most ardent and dedicated environmentalists (with deep pockets too!).

Find out if an EV could be right for you!

Our new EV education tool, developed in partnership with Scout Environmental will help you understand more about the realities of EV ownership and how adoption can work for anyone from any lifestyle!

We caught up with local, everyday EV owners to show you that EVs are a realistic and cost effective option for anyone, from any lifestyle.

Today’s guest: The Modern Classic

Name: David

EV Owner Since: 2021

EV: Mustang Mach E

What made you choose an EV?

For me, it was my concerns for the environment. Climate Change, Green House Gas Emissions, I knew I needed to do my part. Saving on gas, maintenance and operating costs switching to an EV was a nudge to make the change.

Did you have to make any changes to your lifestyle or driving habits?

I wouldn’t say any major lifestyle changes but my wife and I do choose to drive the Mustang Mach E over her Hyundai Tuscan.

What reaction do you normally get when you tell people you drive an EV?

People are amazed I drive a Mustang! I think they expect to hear Tesla when I say I drive electric. The number one question I do get asked is ‘how far can you go on a charge?’

What is your typical charging routine?

Initially I charged every two weeks; letting the SOC get as low as 5% and charging to 80%. I’ve changed my routine after listening to Dr. Jeff Dahn from Dalhousie University. Now I charge every Friday night, charging only to 80%. This is what works best for me and my EV!

What is your opinion of the local public charging infrastructure?

It’s not extensive enough, especially for long distance travel. Across the board it seems Tesla Superchargers are the most reliable option when compared to CCS. My local chapter, EV Society-Northumberland, is currently with Cobourg staff and council to have 16 chargers installed in various around Cobourg.

What is the longest trip that you have taken in your EV?

My longest trip so far was Cobourg to Bracebridge, approximately 215 km.

Have you noticed any savings since you started driving an EV?

Let’s break it down. “Fueling” costs for electricity charging at the overnight off-peak rate is 1/10th the equivalent cost of gasoline. You have to remember; you’re normally charging at night when the electricity rates are low.

Are there any challenges you have faced as an EV driver?

Challenges? I lost the battle to drive to Halifax using our EV – my wife still has a bit of range anxiety. I get it, we need to see some improvements happen to public charging infrastructure, that being said, I know a lot of people who drive EV and travel long distance!

What are the most positive parts of your EV experience?

I get to ignore gas prices! I love what I drive and I love engaging with others about driving EV.

What advice would you give to someone considering purchasing an EV?

My advice would be to do your homework. Look at your driving habits and find an EV that fits your lifestyle. There are so many options out there now! Also, look into installing a Level 2 charger at home before you buy an EV.\

Still not sure if an EV is right for you?

Together with Scout Environmental, we’ve developed a unique digital experience designed to help you understand more about electric vehicles and find out if there is a model that works for your lifestyle!