If you’re like many drivers considering the switch to an electric vehicle, you might wonder your options. So, how many types of EVs are there?
Our #1 Cochran EV Specialists have provided a breakdown of the different kinds of electric cars to show you what different routes you can take when looking for something more fuel-efficient. Then, visit a local #1 Cochran store to explore our new inventory and see which hybrid or electric options would best fit you.
There are four distinct types of electric vehicles, and each option offers its unique perks to help you save fuel on your commute. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each option:
Hybrid Electric Vehicles: This electric vehicle features a self-charging motor with a set mileage limit. Once you’ve exhausted power, the vehicle’s gas engine powers the motor and keeps you moving. Mild hybrids do not need to be plugged in and are filled with gasoline as needed.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles: These hybrid electric models have a powerful battery and motor that must be charged to regain mileage. They are an excellent option for those looking to try out more fuel-efficient models for the first time. In addition to charging the electric battery, plug-in hybrids require gas as needed.
Battery Electric Vehicles: These options offer a fully electric model with a much larger motor and battery than other types of electric vehicles. They also need less overall maintenance. Plus, you’ll notice way less noise without an engine. Fully EV cars do not have gas engines and must be charged at home or a charging station.
Hydrogen Electric Vehicles (Fuel Cell): Fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles are much less common than the other options as they’re much more expensive and may only be available in specific locations due to limited charging stations for these cars. The Department of Energy has a list of places that offer hydrogen refueling.
As mentioned above, the different types of electric vehicles are distinguished by their components, capabilities and engineering. Here’s a closer look at the distinct makeup of each model:
● Engine
● Electric motor
● Battery pack with controller & inverter
● Fuel tank
● Control module
● Electric motor
● Engine
● Inverter
● Battery
● Fuel tank
● Control module
● Battery Charger
● Electric motor
● Inverter
● Battery
● Control Module
● Drivetrain
● Electric motor
● Fuel-cell stack
● Hydrogen storage tank
● Battery with converter and controller
Now that you know how many types of electric vehicles there are, visit #1 Cochran online or visit us to see which of our electric models would be a great fit for you. Schedule a test drive of any of our models today. And remember, our “Try Before You Buy” policy allows you to test drive an EV for 2 days and get more familiar with how it integrates into your lifestyle.X
Contact us to schedule your test drive. In the meantime, contact us or visit our website for helpful information about different brands, car-buying tips and more.
X Vehicle must be returned with same charge level it left on. Free #1 Cochran charging is not available during extended test drive period.
No matter if you drive a vehicle with an internal combustion engine (ICE) or fully-electric powertrain, your vehicle is a complex piece of machinery that will require routine maintenance from time to time. When you compare an EV maintenance schedule vs. ICE maintenance schedule, you will see that there are many similarities and many differences. Our #1 Cochran EV Specialists have prepared a guide that compares EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance so you can estimate the associated costs for maintaining each type of vehicle.
Some drivers are hesitant to make the switch to an electric vehicle like the VW ID.4 or Kia EV6 because of concerns about the cost of replacing an EV battery. Did you know that the Federal Regulation for Electric Car Battery Warranties requires all U.S. automakers to provide between eight and 10 years (or 100,000 miles) of warranty coverage on all EV batteries? Because of this, and the fact that EV batteries are known for their longevity, you may never need to replace the battery in your EV. Batteries for internal combustion vehicles generally need to be replaced every four to five years, but they are much more affordable.
In newer vehicles with an internal combustion engine, oil changes are usually recommended every 7,500 miles or so. This service interval may vary based on your driving habits. There is no oil system in an electric vehicle, so regular oil changes are a thing of the past.
Combustion engines generate a lot of heat, and every single vehicle currently sold in America has a radiator, hoses, a thermostat, a water pump and belts to turn the pump. Regular cooling system maintenance requires:
● Thermostat replacement
● Belt replacement
● Fluid flushes
Radiators are rarely repaired nowadays, and the cost of replacement is around $700-$850. What is the difference between EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance for the cooling system? EVs do have a cooling system, but the maintenance needed is minimal.
Modern internal combustion engines have very complex fuel and ignition systems. Fuel systems contain components such as fuel injectors, fuel rails, coil packs and engine control units (ECUs). Replacing a fuel injector on a six-cylinder engine will usually cost at least $400. EVs have no fuel systems to maintain.
When it comes to EV maintenance vs. ICE maintenance for your tires, the tires on an ICE vehicle and the tires on an EV require the same services, like tire rotations. Keep in mind that in some cases, the added weight of an EV battery may cause tires to wear down a bit faster.
When it’s time for vehicle service, you can trust the factory-certified technicians at #1 Cochran to take care of your vehicle with professionalism and attention to detail. We have the most advanced tools, OEM parts and EV certified equipment to get the job done. Plus, we also offer EV roadside assistance with available towing and on-the-spot charging.
Set up an appointment at any of our locations, or contact us for details.
The automotive landscape is undergoing a monumental shift, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the charge toward a more sustainable and quieter driving experience. Unlike their gasoline-powered counterparts, EVs offer a near-silent operation, significantly reducing noise pollution in our urban environments. But what does this mean for drivers and pedestrians alike? Let’s dive into the unique aspects of electric vehicle noise, acceleration, handling and performance.
Electric vehicles are celebrated for their whisper-quiet operation in stark contrast to the rumble of gasoline engines. This silence is a nod to technological advancement and a contribution to reducing noise pollution. However, this near-silence has prompted engineers to design external noise generators for EVs. These pedestrian-warning systems, now a federal requirement, are designed to alert bystanders of an approaching vehicle, blending safety with innovation.
While making EVs audible to pedestrians, engineers are also dedicated to ensuring the interior remains peaceful. Advanced design techniques and materials are employed to suppress unwanted electric vehicle noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), keeping the cabin serene. Strategic placement of components like belly pans further isolates exterior noise, ensuring a peaceful driving experience.
One of the most exhilarating aspects of driving an EV is the immediate response to acceleration. Electric cars can outpace most conventional vehicles from a standstill, offering a seamless and quiet power surge. This instant acceleration is due to the electric motor’s ability to deliver full torque immediately, unlike gasoline engines that need to build power gradually.
EVs provide a smooth, continuous acceleration without needing gear shifts, eliminating the jerking sensation often associated with rapid acceleration in conventional vehicles. This seamless power delivery makes electric cars faster off the line and more enjoyable to drive.
Electric motors are inherently more straightforward and efficient than their internal combustion counterparts. This results in instant acceleration and a balanced compromise between acceleration and top speed in most EVs. Here are some key highlights about EV performance and handling:
● Full torque from zero RPM
● The absence of engine vibration and the smooth power delivery enhance the driving experience
● EVs feature regenerative braking systems, which convert the vehicle’s kinetic energy back into electrical energy
● Most EVs are equipped with a single-speed gear, offering sufficient top speeds for everyday use
● Most EVs have battery packs positioned in the center, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, providing superior weight distribution and improving cornering that minimizes rollover risk
Visit your local #1 Cochran location to explore the largest EV selection in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia tri-state area. We offer flexible finance options as well.
What’s the real return on investment when leasing or purchasing an electric vehicle from #1 Cochran? Fuel savings play a big role but it goes deeper than that. The #1 Cochran finance department has the details you need to understand the cost-benefit of electric vehicles.
The days of EVs being limited to luxury budgets are fast coming to an end as nearly all new car brands are rolling out all-electric vehicles with much lower initial price points than the luxury EVs you’ve been seeing in Pittsburgh for a few years. While EVs still have higher sticker prices than their gasoline-powered peers, that’s just part of the economic story behind EV ownership. Here are some of the ways you’ll get your electric vehicle return on investment:
When you look at the cost-benefit of electric vehicles, you have to take the big-picture approach because long-term savings are where you’ll recoup your investment. Consumer Reports found that EV owners can expect to save on average $800-$1,000 per year on fuel costs.
EVs have lower maintenance costs than gas-powered vehicles, so your investment in an electric car will also be returned in maintenance savings, which are about half of what owners of gas-powered vehicles pay. In the lifetime of your EV, this comes to about $4,600 in maintenance savings.
While it’s still a bit early to have solid numbers on this front, it also appears EVs will incur less depreciation than gasoline vehicles, giving them a stronger resale and trade value.
As manufacturers are starting to debut electric models of their gasoline-powered favorites, it’s easier to compare the cost-benefit of electric vs. gas vehicle ownership. Find out how the investment in an electric car — the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning— compares to the gas-powered F-150. This data is based on a driver in Pennsylvania who travels 20 miles a day, five days a week. Half of that driving is done on highways.
2024 Ford F-150 2WD 5.0 L (Gasoline) vs. 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD (EV):
Annual Fuel Use:
● 2024 Ford F-150: 275 gallons
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: 0 gallons
Costs to Fill the Tank:
● 2024 Ford F-150: $78-122
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: $0
Annual Fuel Cost (Based on 15,000 Annual Miles):
● 2024 Ford F-150: $2,650
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: $1,100
Annual Savings on Fuel vs Average New Vehicle:
● 2024 Ford F-150: $4,250 More Over Five Years
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: $3,500 Saved Over Five Years
Cost to Drive 25 Miles:
● 2024 Ford F-150: $4.45
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: $1.80
Annual Greenhouse Emissions (U.S. Tons Per Year):
● 2024 Ford F-150: 7.7 Tons
● 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning: 0.0 Tons
You can save nearly $2,500 per year on fuel costs when you choose an electric Ford F-150 over the gas-powered counterpart while cutting your emissions by nearly 7,000 pounds of CO2. The Vehicle Cost Calculator from the Alternative Fuels Data Center via the U.S. Department of Energy can help you run these numbers for other makes and models.
While the federal tax incentives for EV purchases have changed in recent years, many customers can still secure a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 when buying an EV. The best way to determine how much of a tax break your purchase is eligible for is to review the latest listings with the U.S. Department of Energy.
Ohio drivers will save even more money by being exempt from regular vehicle emissions testing. One verification inspection is required to validate the exemption. If you live in Ohio and install a Level 2 home charger powered by the Firelands Electric Cooperative, you can qualify for a $250 rebate.
Since tax breaks and incentives tend to change, contact the #1 Cochran finance department to get the most up-to-date information on government-funded ways you’ll see a return on your investment in an electric vehicle.
With the largest EV selection in the Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia tri-state area, #1 Cochran has an electric vehicle that’s right for you. We’d love to help you start enjoying your electric vehicle return on investment by offering new vehicle specials. These rotating discounts can include vehicles from our all-electric inventories. Today’s the day to find the electric vehicle that’ll help pay for itself.
If you’re new to EVs, you may wonder how to compare the different types of chargers. While they all dispense electricity, they do so at different rates: generally, drivers will find three different charging levels at charging stations. Additionally, chargers and cars use different outlets and connectors that may be incompatible.
Learn more about the different types of electric car chargers with #1 Cochran. Then, visit any of our locations to check out our electric and hybrid vehicle inventory.
Currently, chargers are classified into three different charging levels. It’s important to understand that while two chargers may be rated at the same level, their electricity dispense rate may not be the same.
Likewise, each EV has a different maximum charging rate that may prevent drivers from using specific chargers. For example, a charger may charge an EV at 350 kilowatts at a time, but a car with a maximum charging rate of 200 kilowatts will not be able to utilize the charger fully. Let’s take a closer look at the different charger levels:
Level 1 chargers charge at three to five miles per hour. All EVs, especially plug-in hybrid vehicles, can be charged simply by plugging the charging equipment into a wall outlet. Because Level 1 charging is the slowest of the levels, it is often used to charge an EV overnight at home or in an emergency.
Consider installing a Level 2 charging station in your garage to improve your EV’s charging capabilities. Level 2 charging can add anywhere from 12 to 80 miles to your EV per hour, keeping it charged for the day ahead on errands around town. Level 2 charging systems are also found in workplaces and other public areas. These are typically the chargers you will use most of the time for your vehicle.
Our partner Emporia Energy offers fast, affordable home charging installation. Or, you can stop by your local #1 Cochran location. We have the region’s largest dealer-owned network of charging stations, which is open to both the customers and the public.
Level 3 charging has a charging speed of 3 to 20 miles per minute. Unlike the first two levels, Level 3 chargers utilize a direct, rather than alternating, current. Since this requires a higher voltage, you will typically not find Level 3 Charging in homes. Expect to see these charging stations around shopping complexes and other high-traffic areas.
The current state of electric vehicle charging outlets and charging station connectors is similar to the “format wars” of VHS vs. Betamax or Blu-Ray vs. HD DVD. The good news is it’s becoming easier and more accessible for any modern EV to use any charging station.
All EVs can plug directly into a standard 120-volt wall outlet with the equipment that comes with your vehicle. Beyond that, four different connector plugs are commonly in use:
● J-Plug: A round plug with circular holes, the J-Plug was the first agreed-upon standard plug for Level 1 and Level 2 Charging. Almost every EV sold today in the United States can accept a J-Plug connector.
● CCS: A CCS plug resembles the J-Plug but has two DC pins underneath to enable Level 3 fast charging. CCS is the agreed-upon standard for most North American and European manufacturers, although that may change thanks to Tesla (see below). This “combo plug” will also work with J-Plug-only vehicles and generally has a plastic piece that covers the two DC pins when not in use for Level 1 and 2 charging.
● CHAdeMo: Many Japanese manufacturers adopted this fast-charging plug standard, and their models would have both the J-Plug and CHAdeMo. Thanks to the introduction of CSS, this plug type has been rapidly phased out, and only a few models, like the Nissan LEAF, still use it.
● NACS: While many automakers adopted CSS, Tesla adopted its NACS plug standard to deliver Level 1-3 charging. Though only Tesla models currently have a built-in NACS outlet, other EVs can use the Tesla charging stations with an adaptor. So, J-Plug and CSS vehicles can use NACS and vice versa. Many non-Tesla automakers are considering changing their future vehicles from CSS to NACS. There’s a strong chance NACS may become the future standard in a few years.
As we’ve explored, all chargers are built differently with different charging levels, power outputs and charging connectors that work with different vehicles. Fortunately, most vehicles can use most chargers with the appropriate equipment.
If you still have questions about charging, contact a #1 Cochran EV Specialist. You can also find current offers and incentives for our electric vehicle stock and schedule service for your electric vehicle maintenance.
Electric vehicles have never been more popular than now, and even skeptics have become intrigued by all the options on the market. So if you have questions about the world of EVs, our #1 Cochran EV Specialists have put together an FAQ for you to reference.
An EV stands for “electric vehicle.” This car does not have a gas-powered engine but runs on pure electricity. The powertrain consists of an electric motor and battery pack instead of an engine, so you use no gas and produce no emissions. Think of the Chevy Bolt EV and Kia EV6.
A hybrid, on the other hand, contains both an engine and a motor with a battery pack. It combines electricity and gas power to boost efficiency. So an EV is not the same as a hybrid—but you can find both at #1 Cochran. Think of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or Camry Hybrid.
Yes, EVs are durable and long-lasting like any other vehicle. Because there are fewer moving parts, they receive less wear and tear on your commute. That means less maintenance and a long lifespan. Some drivers worry about battery life, but a typical EV battery lasts 10 to 20 years. Plus, EV batteries must be covered by manufacturers for eight years under a minimum warranty by law. At #1 Cochran, we also offer extended warranties through Assurant EV One.
The variety within the modern EV market will blow you away. Electric vehicles offer tons of power, and EVs tend to have more torque than their gas-powered counterparts. More importantly, that torque is available the second you press the pedal – no revving is needed. So, if you think you’ll sacrifice performance in an EV, think again.
There are tons of options when it comes to EV charging. Drivers can plug their vehicle directly into any grounded outlet for Level 1 charging speeds, translating into only a few miles per hour of charging. Level 2 charging is faster and can be accessed in public charging stations. You can also install your private Level 2 home charging station for speedy overnight charging. Our partner Emporia Energy can provide assistance with fast, affordable home installation.
And if you’re crunched for time, look for a Level 3 charger, which is only available at public stations. Fortunately, #1 Cochran has the largest dealer-owned network of charging stations, which is available to customers and the public.
The boom in the EV market has led to more variety in cars and a wider range of price points. Thanks to #1 Cochran’s ClearCut Pricing on every new vehicle, we always give you our absolute best price right from the start. You can also take advantage of federal rebates in many cases.
Yes, a federal tax credit is active until 2032, and qualified purchases on models such as the Cadillac Lyriq and Ford F-150 Lightning could receive up to a $7,500 credit. Factors determining the credit’s amount include the vehicle’s cost, range, where it was made, and where the parts were sourced. Please read our guide on the EV Federal Tax Credit to learn more!
While charging time varies from model to model, one of the main factors impacting it is the charger you’re using. A standard Level 1 charger (your average wall outlet) will only charge about four miles of range per hour. On the other hand, a Level 3 Rapid Charger can recharge around 100 miles of range in as little as 20 minutes.
Electric vehicle ranges have advanced rapidly over the past few years. While earlier EVs may have caused range anxiety due to lower ranges and limited charging stations, the average range currently is between 200 and 300 miles and continues to increase by the year. Likewise, over 161,000 charging stations are currently in use across the country, with more being added daily.
Yes! Our factory-trained technicians are on the cutting edge of all things EV and only use certified equipment and genuine OEM parts. We even provide roadside assistance with available towing and on-the-spot charging.
At #1 Cochran, we’ve created a private Facebook group for updates, exclusive events, insights and owner support. Sign up here. Plus, through our EV Web Hub, we publish tips, articles and news that keep you informed.
Absolutely. Our “Try Before You Buy” approach allows you to test drive an EV for 2 days so you can get comfortable and know for sure if it’s the right fit.X
Envision yourself driving an EV? Still have questions that our EV FAQs didn’t cover? Contact us today to speak with a #1 Cochran EV Specialist. We’d be happy to help with any unanswered questions and set you up on a test drive in a new EV.
XVehicle must be returned with same charge level it left on. Free #1 Cochran charging is not available during extended test drive period.
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