Severe weather, whether hot or cold, can affect your vehicle’s range. While temperature plays a role, using in-vehicle climate control can further impact efficiency. However, you can minimize range loss by pre-conditioning your vehicle before driving and ensuring your battery is at its optimal operating temperature before departure.

Many factors influence range, similar to gasoline-powered vehicles. These include passenger and cargo load, towing, wind resistance, road grade, driving style, speed, weather, and driving surface. EVs also have unique advantages, with factors like battery charge level and temperature playing a role in overall efficiency.

The cost of a battery replacement can range depending on the type and size of the battery, the make and model of the vehicle and the warranty coverage. Most manufacturers warranty the battery for 8-10 years, or up to 120,000 miles. Additionally, as production volume increases and battery technology advances, the cost of battery replacements continues to decrease.

Many warranties may be available for electric vehicles and the exact coverage varies between manufacturers. Typically, customary warranties are offered covering the vehicles' components with a separate warranty on the battery (8-10 years, up to 120,000 miles). Aftermarket warranties may also be available when a used electric vehicle is purchased.

Additionally, manufacturers of home charging equipment may also have warranties available.

While the upfront cost of an electric vehicle is still slightly higher than a combustion engine, the price gap is shrinking each year as production and battery costs decline. However, when considering the total cost of ownership, EVs often come out ahead due to lower fueling and maintenance costs, discount electricity rate programs for EV owners, incentives, and rebates.

The weight of an EV varies by model and battery size, but on average, electric vehicles tend to weigh more than their combustion-engine counterparts. This is mostly driven by the weight of the battery.

EVs are approximately 71% more efficient than gas-powered vehicles. EVs deliver instant torque and higher horsepower, providing quick acceleration. Gas-powered vehicles, on the other hand, are generally better at reaching and maintaining higher top speeds.

EV drivers tend to charge their vehicles at night when, generally, energy usage is at its lowest. This creates more efficient use of the grid, which puts downward pressure on customer rates.

Ameren Resources

Electric Vehicle Overview (PDF)
Electric Vehicle Charging Guide (PDF)
Electric Vehicle Checklist (PDF)
Electric Vehicle Myths (PDF)
Federal Tax Credit Information (PDF)

EPRI Resources

Both consumers and businesses can learn the basics about electric vehicles from these guides provided by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).

Consumer's Guide to EVs (PDF)
Consumer's Guide to EV Charging (PDF)

Reports and Studies

American Lung Association: The Road to Clean Air (PDF)