Need advice? Speak to our EV Experts
Switching to an electric car can be daunting, from knowing which car to choose, to how to charge it. Luckily, our fantastic team of dedicated RAC Electric Experts are on hand to answer all your EV-related questions – for free.
No question’s too big or too small. Whether you want to know which EV has the best range, or you want help deciding on the best way to finance an electric vehicle to fit your lifestyle. We’ve got a wealth of experience and motoring expertise – so you’re in safe hands.
Commonly asked questions about electric cars
Our EV experts are here to help. But if you need an instant answer, we’ve gathered some of the most commonly asked questions about electric cars below.
Can’t find the question you’re looking for? Get in touch with our EV experts today, no question is too small.
Should I buy an electric car?
Although electric vehicles are more expensive to buy than conventional vehicles, you’ll save money on fuel and tax in the long run. They offer an enjoyable driving experience, with the latest technology and features. And of course, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment, as they create less pollution than vehicles powered by fossil fuels.
What are the pros and cons of buying an electric car?
Below are some key pros and cons of buying an electric car. It’s worth remembering that technology for electric cars is always improving. Advances in technology and new legislation is likely to reduce electric vehicles’ current disadvantages in the coming years.
Pros
- Low running costs – especially if have a home charge point and take advantage of special EV Tariffs
- Low servicing and maintenance costs – with fewer moving parts than a conventional vehicle, EVs are cheaper to maintain too
- Doing your bit for the Environment – you’ll be generating less pollution than you would with a conventional car, reducing your impact on the climate
- Better driving experience – electric vehicles have instant torque, making them very responsive and enjoyable to drive
Cons
- High initial cost – although running an electric car is cheaper, they are more expensive to buy than a conventional car.
- Range – don’t take the manufacturer’s quoted range at face value. Your electric car is unlikely to reach this, as weather conditions and driving style will affect it.
What happens if my electric car runs out of battery?
Under normal circumstances your electric car is unlikely to completely run out of charge, as your vehicle will give you enough warning when it’s running low for you to stop at the nearest charging point.
If you do get to 0 range, manufacturers like Nissan, Hyundai, Tesla and VW to name a few put the vehicle into ‘Turtle Mode’, which allows the vehicle to continue at low speed (approx. 10mph) for a few miles.
And if you still run out of power, call the RAC – we are the no 1 provider for hybrid and electric car breakdown cover. Our patrols can give you an emergency boost to get you going again.
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FAQs about electric cars
Q. Do I have to be an RAC customer to speak to the EV Experts?
You don't have to be an RAC customer to speak to our Electric Experts. They're here to help anyone. Although we will prioritise RAC customer enquires first.
Q. What questions can I ask the EV Experts?
Our Electric Experts are here to help with any questions you have on electric vehicles. Whether it's what to look for in an electric car, or what different types of electric cars are available, we'll answer your questions.
Q. Will it cost me money to contact the RAC EV Experts?
You don't have to pay us a penny to contact the Electric Experts, it's free of charge. You just need to consider that 03 numbers are charged at national call rates and included in inclusive minute plans from landlines and mobiles.
Q. Are the RAC EV Experts impartial?
Our Electric Experts will never try to sell you an electric car product that you don’t need, they’ll only point you towards RAC products if appropriate to your needs. They’re simply here to answer your questions and provide information on electric vehicles.
Q. How long do electric cars last?
The lifespan of an electric car is similar to a conventional vehicle. Most EVs use lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are usually in warranty for 8–10 years or 60,000-100,000 miles, but some people have found they last more than double this.
Q. Do electric cars require a lot of maintenance?
Maintaining an EV should cost much less than a conventional car – simply because there are fewer moving parts involved. Lots of updates can also be done remotely, so you shouldn’t have to spend time taking your car back into the dealership.
Q. Is hybrid better than electric?
A hybrid vehicle is a good stepping stone from a conventional car to a completely electric vehicle. But it will only run a short distance on its electric battery. A plug-in hybrid will go further but you have to remember to plug it in, as well as filling up the fuel tank.
Q. Do electric cars pay for themselves?
Although electric cars are more expensive to buy than conventional cars, fuel and maintenance costs, and the annual tax you pay will be much lower than fossil fuel vehicles. So you’ll save money over time.
Q. Are charging stations for electric cars free?
Not all electric car charging points are free – but there are lots of locations where you can charge your electric vehicle for free, like supermarkets, car parks, shopping centres, National Trust locations and hotels. Some workplaces offer free charging while you’re at work, too.
According to Zap-Map there are currently 5,715 free chargers in UK as of April 2022. And when you’re charging at home, you take advantage of a competitive EV tariff to save money by charging overnight. Like the one offered by RAC and British Gas.