From tank to Tesla: how to get the best deal on an electric car

Many of us drive electric vehicles. My gasoline car was nearing the end of its life, maintenance costs were rising, and gas mileage was low.

Summary:I realized that what I spend on gas every month is enough to rent or buy a good electric car. Unfortunately, residential charging isn't an option for me at the moment, so when I got access to workplace charging, I started to look more seriously at electric vehicle options. Here's what I've learned along the way and what advice I would give other people who want to change

Budget and scope of work ahead of time

There are plenty of EV deals out there (like the recent leaf theft), but you need to know how much you want to spend. Resist the temptation to buy an expensive electric car if you can't afford one, and don't buy a cheap electric car if its range doesn't meet your needs. Start with what you want and keep going.I knew I wanted to save on gas and lower operating costs by going all-electric and not spending too much, but I needed good range to feel like I could go anywhere.

Switch to purely electrical energy whenever possible

When I started thinking about the cost of gas and the cost of maintenance, it seemed reasonable to me to switch to a purely electric car instead of a hybrid one. My old gas car has become very expensive to maintain. Electric vehicles are very simple and affordable. The recommended program is basically to check the wear once a year and change the tires periodically. It's not worth it - it's better to keep the car running for as long as possible.

Find out your motives in the cold

Find out what benefits are available in your state and if they are offered during a lease. For example, the federal tax credit for electric vehicles goes to the renter, but can be transferred to you with reduced payments, and you receive the state rebate directly (a smart way to handle deposits). Some benefits have price or income limits, so people who buy a new, high-quality car may not be eligible.

Study the offer carefully.

I regularly (well, compulsively) check rental hacks and manufacturer websites to find and compare the best deals. If you pay attention, you can find great deals.You must be prepared to wait for a suitable option and put it up for auction with a negotiator.

I was considering buying a new BMW I3 when I found that I could buy a certified used Tesla model for the same price. Buying a new Tesla would have cost more than I could afford, but I had access to a used car. Tesla repair is like buying a new car because you are using a used car.

Leasing is great, but not the only option

Electric vehicle leasing is often encouraged around the world. It's a good way to get the best deal and the latest technology, but a used Tesla comes with a full warranty on handling, battery, traffic, and a four-year, 50,000-mile limited warranty. So I felt good after my decision. It also has the old supercharger access - with charging stations to fill up anywhere I go, not that I need to.

I am open to new ones.

My attitude towards refueling electric vehicles has definitely changed. Now I do not use it and do not worry about autonomy. It was a new experience and it took a while to adjust, but now it's all electric and I really like it.

Do you think you are ready to buy your own electric car?