Getting with the Times

Times are definitely changing, both in the United States and around the world. In response to geopolitical pressure, as well as unpassable opportunities into untapped markets, large companies are taking aggressive strides towards investing in electric automobiles.

Let’s face it, regardless of one’s belief on climate change, it is undeniable that our gasoline reserves are limited. This doesn’t only mean that we will eventually run out, requiring an alternative, but also means that as our supply drops, fuel will become less and less affordable. This would result in devastating economical consequences, which would pour into a transportation panic. People, especially in the United States are reliant on personal transportation and would have to ensure significant daily adjustments, only creating further demand for an affordable alternative.

Cultural impact

According to Bloomberg, electric cars will become just as affordable as gasoline models by as early as 2025. Bloomberg also projects that one out of every six cars will be electronically powered by the same time. This transformation is amazing considering how far manufacturers have come in such a short period of time.

In place of gas stations, we will be seeing more and more electronic charging stations. Others will also be available for home garages. Currently, there aren’t enough electric car owners to justify a dramatic expansion of charging ports, so they are slowly popping up in certain areas. The more available charging stations, the more incentive people will have to purchase an electric car, then the more people that purchase electric cars, the more reason companies will have to invest in more electric charging stations.

From a cultural perspective, people have become more eager to recycle than ever. We are seeing this from reusable bags at grocery stores to used auto parts for cars. With pollution in our oceans and landfills piling up, people are becoming more aware. This has acted as a major catalyst for the demand for electric cars. Being a renewable source means we can produce it and that it won’t further harm our planet and/or living conditions. It also puts a steady hold on the energy supply. Since there are no “reserves” of electricity, the laws of supply and demand don’t apply. If one company decides to increase their prices at electric charging stations, it will open an opportunity for a competitor to sell cheaper down the block. This isn’t entirely possible now with gas because of gas companies are buying and redistributing gas, rather than creating it themselves as they will with electricity.

Notable Brands and Models to Watch

Like we said, we know electric is the future for cars, and these companies obviously know it too. Here are some of the most talked about brands with their top models.

Tesla Model X – MSRP from $79,500

The Model S has received praise from many satisfied customers. The electric luxury car is known for its excellent acceleration and sleek design. Like other Teslas, the Model X can be customized quite a bit, ranging from the paint to the exterior. This has been one of the higher rated high-end electric cars.

Tesla Model 3 – MSRP from $35,000

Tesla’s Model 3 has raised a lot of questions over the course of the past few months. Originally branded as the affordable electric luxury car, CEO Elon Musk recently noted that the Model 3 will be projected higher than originally anticipated.

Will the Model 3 be the must-have electric car? We’re not sure, but we can say that it’s worth keeping an eye out for!

Chevy Bolt EV – MSRP from $36,620

We were actually surprised at how well the Chevy Bolt has been received. The major takeaways are that the car drives well and the engine is as reliable as any competitor. This is seen as one of the top affordable electric cars on the market today. People aren’t fans of either the exterior or interior designs, but that’s a small price to pay in the world of practicality.

BMW i3 – MSRP from $44,450

The sporty i3 gives BMW a fun “euro feel” and has been a nice shake-up from the norm. This model is loaded with tech features and lots of battery life, which has led to solid reviews. The space and design of the interior are regarded as one of the best for its price range.

Ford Focus Electric – MSRP from $29,120

We aren’t crazy about the 2018 Ford Focus Electric, but we think it has a promising future. Most of the specs are fair, it drives fairly normally and the design is very similar to the gas model, though there isn’t a lot of cargo space and it doesn’t get the same kind of range as some of its competitors.

Kia Soul EV – MSRP from $32,250

The Kia Soul is one of the preferred compact vehicles, and now it’s available in electric! Personally, we aren’t huge on the designs, but to each is own. The style is very popular because you get a lot for an affordable price and the battery is as durable as their competitors. The handing and efficiency make the Soul EV one of the best electric cars for a budget.

Fiat 500e – MSRP from $32,995

Fiats are growing in popularity, but we think the 500e needs some work. Think of it like the Italian Ford Focus because it’s here now, and we think it might have a bright future. Currently, the 500e is stylish and fun to drive, but needs work on some of the tech and charging time. So depending on your lifestyle, the 500e could be a smart and fun ride for you.

Nissan LEAF – MSRP from $29,990

Nissan has invested big in the tech for all of their vehicles. That’s one of the things that really stands out for the LEAF, some even say the driver-assist systems are a bit too sensitive. These are thought to be best in dealing with traffic, so high-volume areas like New York City and Los Angeles.