Should I buy a BMW electric vehicle? Here are 5 downsides you might not have considered (and why a hybrid may be better)

With the hype surrounding electric vehicles, it may seem the obvious choice for your next vehicle, especially for those who like to be on the cutting edge of technology. While there are positives to owning an EV like not having to consider what fuel soars to and lower emissions, you should know all the facts. Here are the top reasons why you should reconsider buying an EV. 

If your EV will mainly be used for commuting around Macon, Forsyth and Perry, no worries getting around on a full charge. But if you plan to use your BMW EV for a road trip to the beach, you will need to go through the exercise of planning your charging stops along the way. Even with the many apps which are available this can be a huge hassle.  The apps may only tell you where are charging station is, not if they are all fully functioning.  

And even when you stop to charge you may face wait times as there aren’t tons of charging stations built throughout the country so they may be in high demand. It won’t be as quick as fueling up. You should plan for about 30 minutes to charge up. This may be more difficult if you have little ones in the car.   

2. Mechanics for BMW EVs 

If you’ve ever been in a car accident or fender bender, it can be more costly than you might initially have thought to repair your BMW. This is exacerbated even further when it comes to an EV. Not all repair shops will work on EVs as they are more intricate to repair.  

3. Tax Savings options for BMW EVs 

While we often see the $7,500 tax credit for an EV, it only applies if you owe the government tax money. Plus, there are income limits on how much you can earn per household. If your income surpasses the government limits, you won’t qualify for the tax credit.  Also note that not all EVs qualify for the tax credit.  Source: EV Tax Credit 2024: How It Works, What Qualifies - NerdWallet 

4. Insurance Costs: The cost to insure an EV in Georgia can be more expensive than insuring a non-EV vehicle due to higher repair costs. You can always reach out to your current car insurance carrier, and they can tell you the cost of insuring a BMW EV. 

5. Environmental costs of EV Batteries 

While the gas-powered vehicles are admonished for their emissions, EVs are not without their own environmental concerns. Precious minerals are used in the production of EV, which depletes their supply. In addition, the electricity used can place a burden on electric grids that the infrastructure cannot support in the immediate future.  

If you are concerned by any of the cons of owning an EV listed above, you may want to consider a hybrid vehicle. While they are not fully electric, they offer excellent fuel economy. Plus, you will never have charge anxiety or have to find a specialty mechanic for repairs in the Macon or Warner Robins area. Come in and test drive a hybrid today!