Why Our Teen’s First Car is an EV
As a tech enthusiast, I embraced electric vehicles (EVs) in 2016. Fast forward to 2024, my daughter now has her learner’s permit, and we knew her first car had to be electric. Here’s why: Upfront Affordability. Believe it or not, electric cars—especially used models—are affordable. We found a low-mileage, 8-year-old EV for under $6,000. Thanks to federal incentives, EVs have become a smart investment, especially compared to old gas vehicles with high mileage and higher repair costs. Low Maintenance. Teenagers often end up with an old, unreliable car with endless maintenance issues. But EVs are different—their powertrains have fewer than 30 moving parts, compared to the thousands in gas-powered cars. That means fewer repairs, less worries, and overall lower maintenance costs. Range anxiety is a common EV concern. My daughter's used EV has a range of ~120 miles—perfect for a new driver. It’s enough to get her to school, work, and the mall, but not enough for road trips. It’s like having a cordless leash—keeping her close to home. Safety is the top priority, and EVs offer incredible peace of mind. EVs are statistically safer than gas vehicles, with fewer injury claims, lower rollover risks, and a significantly reduced likelihood of catching fire. Their low center of gravity, due to battery placement, makes rollovers nearly impossible. Plus, EVs consistently earn top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Forward-Thinking. Choosing an EV isn’t just a smart financial move—it’s a way to teach my daughter the importance of sustainability. EVs can save nearly 5 tons of CO2 for every 10,000 miles driven, reducing her carbon footprint and combating climate change. It contributes to a healthier planet and sets a positive example for her peers. No More Gas Money. Remember scrounging for gas money? With an EV, that’s one less thing for teens to worry about. Charging at home means she'll always have a full “tank” each morning, as long as she plugs it in overnight—just like her phone. Plus, EV drivers save about $2,200 on fuel each year, making it easier for her to focus on other expenses like car insurance. Insurance Costs. Speaking of insurance, while EV insurance costs are dropping thanks to lower sticker prices, high safety ratings, and fewer moving parts, insuring teens remain expensive—no matter what powers their car. The best way to reduce your teen's insurance bill is by taking advantage of good grade discounts and investing in professional driving lessons. While EVs are a smart choice, they can’t work miracles! That said, EVs offer excellent benefits making them an ideal option for long-term savings and safety. The Clear Choice. For us, choosing an EV for our daughter’s first car was a no-brainer. Between the affordability, low maintenance, safety features, and environmental benefits, it’s the perfect fit for a new driver. If you’re considering a car for your teen, take a look at electric vehicles—you might be surprised by how much they have to offer! Kamala Vanderkolk leads VA Business Development for National Car Charging. You can reach Kamala at kvanderkolk@nationalcarcharging.com.
