EV New Buyer
Checklist

Essential checklist for your new EV

We know that when you are thinking about buying an EV, there are some new things to take into consideration.  We’ll help you find the best EV for your lifestyle, learn how to charge at home and on the road and discover your EV incentives. We’ve created this handy checklist to bring clarity and ease to the the purchasing process. Use it with our companion tools — the Quick Start Guide and the comprehensive Buying and Driving Guide — and you’ll be ready to hit the road!

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Consider your model criteria:

Crossover, Sedan, Truck, or SUV? Battery electric or Plug-in hybrid? How much cabin and trunk space do you need? Which special features do you require (AWD, adaptive cruise control, etc.)? Compare models.

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Decide on your timeframe for purchasing/leasing:

If you are currently leasing, when does your contract end? Is your timing flexible or is there a set time when you’ll need a new car? Can you time your purchase with a Ride and Drive Clean EV Discount Campaign or EV Flash Deal?

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Estimate your budget:

What monthly payment are you comfortable with? Remember, you’ll save money by fueling your EV at home with electricity compared to gas! Explore potential EV incentives and tax credits.

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Research EVs:

Learn about EVs by attending a free webinar, Electrify Your Ride, watch these EV tours and testimonials, and make an appointment with a local dealer.

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Explore lease vs. purchase:

If your priority is the carpool lane, leasing may make sense, since the HOV decal lasts for 3 years. If the range and features of a particular EV will satisfy your needs for several years, buying could be a good option.
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Compare new vs. used:

With a new car you’ll benefit from tax credits and incentives and the latest technology. There are plenty of used EV options with a variety of battery ranges. When purchasing a used car, be sure to test the battery health by charging it to its maximum capacity.

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Determine your battery range needs:

Can you charge at home and/or at work? Will you be using this car for your daily commute? For road trips?
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Evaluate home charging:

If you drive less than 40 miles a day, consider plugging your EV into a standard 120V outlet. It’s ample for most drivers. If you have a longer commute and cannot charge at work, use the Home Charging Advisor to research faster charging options.

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Locate charging stations away from home:

If you cannot charge at home or at work, use a free app like PlugShare to map out chargers near your home, work, and en route to your favorite destinations.

Ask us anything EV: Ask questions to our Facebook group or email [email protected].

Check out all our resources for your transition to electric!