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!
