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!
