Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular with the eco-warrior set and those who have said goodbye to Eskom. And, while the upfront cost might be much higher than that of a traditional petrol or diesel-powered car, EVs offer significant long-term savings when it comes to maintenance. Let's delve into why electric cars are generally cheaper to maintain than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
Sell your old fuel-guzzler in an instant with AutoTrader's free Instant Offer tool!
Fewer moving parts equals less maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of EVs is their simplicity. Unlike ICE vehicles with hundreds of moving parts, electric motors have a significantly lower count. This translates to less wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs.
Say goodbye to routine oil changes, spark plug replacements, and air filter cleanings—all common maintenance tasks associated with traditional ICE cars. These eliminated expenses can add up to substantial savings over the lifespan of your vehicle, if you don't buy the most expensive EV on the market. Many South Africans are going the pre-loved EV route; search AutoTrader here for used and lightly-used EVs. We spotted a Nissan Leaf for under R300k which is perfect for urban dwellers, along with a variety of BMW i3 models.
EV Batteries: A different kind of maintenance
While EVs require less maintenance in many ways, they do have a unique cost consideration: the battery pack. Much like your phone, as the EV battery ages, its capacity to hold a charge will gradually decrease, resulting in a shorter driving range.
However, this doesn't mean replacing the battery every few years. Modern EV battery technology is incredibly durable, with estimates suggesting a typical lithium-ion battery can last well over 160 000 km while maintaining a stable driving range. In fact, many EV manufacturers offer long warranties on their batteries, providing peace of mind for owners.
Related: What is the best charging strategy for my electric car's battery health?
Verdict: EVs can offer significant maintenance savings
Overall, electric vehicles offer substantial cost savings when it comes to maintenance compared to traditional cars - it's just a pity that local models are still on the expensive side. Cars like the new Volvo EX30 and GWM Ora are steps in the right direction, and hopefully other manufacturers will follow suit with more affordable EVs.
The simplicity of the electric motor design minimises the need for routine maintenance, and EV batteries boast impressive lifespans. While battery replacement is a future possibility, the long warranties offered by manufacturers make it a less frequent concern.
When buying a new EV, be mindful of depreciation, though. EVs depreciate faster than their ICE counterparts, so when the time comes to sell your EV you may not get your asking price. On the upside, buying a used EV can translate to substantial savings too, and teamed with lower maintenance costs, it could be a win-win. If you are still on the Eskom grid, just bear in mind that you will need a wall-box, or you'll be charging for hours on end.
EVs with the longest range in SA
ENDS
