WRITTEN BY CASHEL STEWART
What you think about electric vehicles may be wrong. They’ve become more affordable and can travel greater distances than ever.
In fact, we’re living in a golden age of automotive innovation. Consumers can choose from more than 100 electric vehicle models. Most are available right here in Maine, and they come in various price points, makes, models, ranges, and buying incentives.
Let’s dig into some of the choices to help you consider your options.
First, decide if you want a vehicle that runs exclusively on battery power or a plug-in hybrid with both a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
Battery-only electric vehicles have large battery packs that allow for significant range. Charging stations have more than doubled in Maine since 2019. With fast charging available on travel corridors throughout the state, longer trips are possible.
Some popular models include the Subaru Solterra (222 miles, $44,995), Nissan LEAF SV (212 miles, $36,190), Tesla Model 3 (341 miles, $38,990), Hyundai Ioniq 6 (240 miles, $37,500), and Kia EV6 (310 miles, $48,500).
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have a smaller battery pack and a conventional gasoline-powered engine that kicks in when battery power is drained. These small
battery packs allow for all-electric trips around town but give drivers ease and peace of mind for longer trips. Some popular models include the Toyota Prius Prime (45 miles, $32,975), the Mitsubishi Outlander (38 miles, $40,345), the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid (32 miles, $53,425), and the Ford Escape (37 miles, $40,500).
Both kinds of electric vehicles—plug-in hybrids and battery-only—qualify for a federal tax credit worth up to $7,500, applied instantly at the time of sale. While some manufacturers are no longer eligible for this credit, purchasing many EVs will earn you the full credit. Efficiency Maine adds an instant rebate worth up to $7,500 for EV models under $50,000. Many manufacturers offer direct rebates and discounts for their new EV models.
Used EVs are becoming more readily available as new models flood the market. While the technology of some used models can be dated, they’re capable of meeting most people’s daily trip needs. The same federal tax credits and Efficiency Maine rebates are available for used EVs, too!
Whether you drive a sedan, a minivan or an SUV, whether you want to buy used or new, whether you want to go with a battery-only or hybrid, there’s an electric vehicle out there for just about everybody.
Cashel Stewart is a Regional Transportation Planner at the Greater Portland Council of Governments. Cashel helps manage and develop electric vehicle programs and policies in Maine.
