{"id":22507,"date":"2024-11-29T12:45:47","date_gmt":"2024-11-29T02:45:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/?p=22507"},"modified":"2024-11-29T12:54:27","modified_gmt":"2024-11-29T02:54:27","slug":"5-things-to-consider-before-buying-your-first-ev","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/5-things-to-consider-before-buying-your-first-ev\/","title":{"rendered":"5 things to consider before buying your first&nbsp;EV"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common on Australian roads \u2013 perhaps you\u2019re even considering getting one yourself. Before you jump in and decide on your first electric car, there are a few unique considerations you should be across.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What kind of EV should you choose?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Like petrol cars, today\u2019s EVs come in all styles and sizes. From compact cars to larger SUVs, each model comes with its own benefits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Compact EVs:<\/strong> Ideal for city driving and smaller budgets, the MG4, BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora and Mini Cooper SE are all great examples of compact cars that punch above their weight.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electric SUVs: <\/strong>Families often look for more space, greater efficiency<s>,<\/s> and enhanced safety features.&nbsp; From the top-selling Tesla Model Y to the seven-seater Kia EV9, luxurious BMW iX3 and everything in between, there\u2019s an SUV for all kinds of families.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Performance EVs: <\/strong>Electric cars are known for their quick acceleration and smooth drive. Some models, like the Kia EV6, focus on dynamic performance and handling, while others, such as the Tesla Model 3, offer greater range and efficiency.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much range and battery life do you need?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Battery range describes how far your EV can travel on a single charge. Modern EVs have a variety of battery ranges, starting from around 300 km to over 600 km per single charge. Your specific needs and driving habits will determine the range that\u2019s right for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some things to think about include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Daily commute:<\/strong> Think about how much or how far you\u2019re travelling. Most people drive less than 40 km a day for daily commuting and city driving &#8211; which all EVs comfortably cover.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Long-distance travel: <\/strong>If you frequently take long journeys, look for an EV with a longer range or plan your routes with charging stations in mind.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Impacts on driving range:<\/strong> It\u2019s also worth noting that driving style and different conditions (like extra weight, weather, driving speed and terrain) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drive.com.au\/caradvice\/what-impacts-your-electric-vehicle-range\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">can affect an EV\u2019s range<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What charging options are available?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are plenty of options available to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/\">charge an EV<\/a>, each with different costs and charging speeds. It\u2019s good to get an idea of the types of charging infrastructure available to you, including:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Home charging:<\/strong> Most EV owners will charge at home overnight, like they do when charging their smartphone. Simply plug the mobile charging cable into a standard power outlet to charge your vehicle. For quicker and more convenient charging, you could consider installing a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/chargers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Level 2 EV charger<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Smart charging:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/chargers\/\">Home charging<\/a> can be even more cost effective if you have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/solar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">solar installed<\/a>. This is because you can charge during the day and take advantage of the energy that your panels are producing. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scheduled charging: <\/strong>You can also leverage smart charging capabilities, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/origin-loop\/electric-vehicle-charging\/ev-power-up\/\">EV Power Up<\/a>, which works by finding low-cost energy to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/origin-loop\/electric-vehicle-charging\/ev-power-up\/\">charge your EV<\/a> at a super low<a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/origin-loop\/electric-vehicle-charging\/ev-power-up\/\"> 8c\/kWh rate<\/a> \u2013 which may include when there is excess solar during the day or when demand is low overnight \u2013 and avoids charging during peak demand times when energy is usually at its most expensive. Allowing you to fully charge your EV for as little as $5.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Public charging:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/\">EV charging stations<\/a> are becoming more prevalent in Australia, making it convenient to top up your EV on the go. Apps and websites like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.plugshare.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">PlugShare<\/a> can help you find nearby chargers and plan routes if you\u2019re heading on a roadtrip.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We can also help install EV chargers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/chargers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">at your home<\/a>, in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/ev-ready-buildings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">apartment buildings<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/business\/fleet\/charging-solutions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">your business<\/a>*.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the costs and incentives for EVs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The costs of EVs in Australia are becoming more competitive. More and more models are becoming available, at different price points. Although the initial purchase price could be higher than a traditional vehicle, you&#8217;ll also want to consider any cost incentives and long-term savings that may be available with an EV.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Financial incentives:<\/strong> Various states and territories may offer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/incentives-rebates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rebates or grants<\/a> for purchasing EVs or installing EV chargers. You could also consider <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/terms-and-conditions\/ev-subscription-salary-packaging\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">packaging an electric vehicle<\/a> through your employer to help save on taxes.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lower running costs:<\/strong> Electric cars are often cheaper to run and may include fuel savings of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transport.nsw.gov.au\/projects\/electric-vehicles\/why-buy-an-electric-vehicle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">up to 70%<\/a> and maintenance savings of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transport.nsw.gov.au\/projects\/electric-vehicles\/why-buy-an-electric-vehicle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">around 40%<\/a>. Driving an electric vehicle could save you thousands of dollars per year, compared to petrol or diesel cars.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Free or discounted charging:<\/strong> Some local councils, shopping centres and charging providers (like <a href=\"https:\/\/jolt.com.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">JOLT Australia<\/a>) offer free or subsidised charging for EV drivers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How long do you plan to keep the car?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are long-term and short-term options for getting your first EV, depending on your budget and needs. Purchasing an EV has its benefits, while subscriptions and leases are more flexible options.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Long-term ownership:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re confident your vehicle needs won&#8217;t change and prefer to own the car outright, purchasing an EV could be the right option for you. Other options, including financing and novated leasing, may be suitable for long-term use of the vehicle.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Short-term options:<\/strong> An <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/subscriptions\/\">EV subscription<\/a> offers a great alternative, especially if you&#8217;re uncertain about your future needs. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/5-things-to-consider-before-buying-your-first-ev\/#:~:text=Our%20EV%20subscription%20plans\">all-inclusive<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/subscriptions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">subscription plan<\/a><sup> <\/sup>allows you to return, upgrade or switch to a different vehicle if your situation changes. Plus, with Origin, if you fall in love with your EV, you have the option to purchase it after three years.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Make the switch to an EV with Origin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting your first EV can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially as Australia moves towards more sustainable transportation. From <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/subscriptions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">EV subscriptions<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/origin-loop\/electric-vehicle-charging\/ev-power-up\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">smart charging solutions<\/a>, we can help you get started on your EV journey.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Exploring these five key factors \u2014 vehicle type, range and battery life, charging options, costs and incentives, and ownership models \u2014 will help you make a decision that suits your needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/\">Learn more about our EV services<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-pb-accordion-item c-accordion__item js-accordion-item no-js\" data-initially-open=\"false\" data-click-to-close=\"true\" data-auto-close=\"true\" data-scroll=\"false\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\"><h3 id=\"at-225070\" class=\"c-accordion__title js-accordion-controller\" role=\"button\">Important information<\/h3><div id=\"ac-225070\" class=\"c-accordion__content\">\n<p>Our EV subscription plans come with registration, comprehensive insurance, maintenance and servicing, 24\/7 roadside assistance, and tyre replacement for fair wear and tear. Home EV charging, on-site charging or public charging costs, and electricity used for electric vehicle charging are not included.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For salary packaging subscription customers, at least 30 days\u2019 notice is required for vehicle swaps or returns. Vehicle swaps will be contingent on vehicle availability. Depending on the return date of the existing vehicle, there may be credit or debit adjustments to your subscription payments to account for the new vehicles. For business subscriptions customers, vehicle swaps are only available on plans with a term greater than 36 months. Business customers are able to swap their vehicle annually, subject to stock and availability. Vehicle swaps may result in a variation and adjustment to the monthly cost and could affect purchasing options.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can make an offer to purchase the vehicle outright after subscribing to the same vehicle for a minimum of 3 years (36 months). We\u2019ll include an indicative price in your subscription quote or business subscription agreement. There\u2019s no obligation for you or your business to purchase the vehicle at the end of the subscription term. Origin is under no obligation to accept the offer you choose to make and the decision to accept or not accept an offer (regardless of the price and terms offered) is ultimately at Origin\u2019s sole discretion. If your offer is accepted, Origin will transfer ownership of the vehicle to you or your business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>*Origin\u2019s capacity to install EV chargers at these sites may be limited depending on where these sites are located and other operational constraints. Origin makes no guarantee that it can assist with EV installations at these site.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For full T&amp;C\u2019s and important information about Origin 360 EV Subscription Salary packaging, please click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/electric-vehicles\/subscriptions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here.<\/a> &nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We breakdown what you need to consider before purchasing your first electric vehicle&nbsp;(EV).<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":22510,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[104],"tags":[82,131],"oe_author":[],"class_list":["post-22507","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-e-mobility","tag-evs","tag-origin-360-ev"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22507","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/38"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22507"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22507\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/22510"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22507"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22507"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22507"},{"taxonomy":"oe_author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.originenergy.com.au\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/oe_author?post=22507"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}