Why Electric Vehicles Are A Better Option For Traffic-Congested Places?

One of the commonly cited benefits of buying electric cars in India, or electric vehicles of most kinds, is the tax benefits it may allow you to claim. Some groups even believe that electric vehicles tend to be better for the environment in at least some ways. Overall, there is an evident shift away from fuel-based (ICE) vehicles towards electric vehicles. Given the incentives offered to people switching to electric vehicles and the overall benefits they are said to provide to the environment, it may seem like the popularity of electric vehicles is here to stay. So, should you consider swapping your existing scooter, bike, or car for an electric version? Or should you consider an EV option when buying a new car? Since buying a vehicle, be it for personal use or business, is a decision that can stay with you for the long term, it is important to carefully consider your options. Electric vehicles are a popular option at present, which also makes them quite accessible if you want to buy one. Remember that buying an EV comes with the same sort of responsibilities that ICE vehicles do. For example, when you buy an electric vehicle, you will have to maintain all the necessary documents for the vehicle, including the registration papers as well electric vehicle insurance. Moreover, the vehicle will also require regular upkeep to maintain its smooth functioning. Thus, it would be improper to assume that having the responsibility of an EV is easier. However, there may be certain benefits to consider that may make it seem like the better option.

How EVs May Help With Traffic Congestion?

Does driving an EV save you from being stuck in traffic directly? Probably not. But here are a few ways how an electric vehicle can prove to be a better option for you if you live in a place that is prone to traffic congestion, or you are likely to face heavy traffic situations regularly.

·         Lesser contribution to air pollution

A traffic jam typically means that there are multiple vehicles stuck behind one another. In bigger cities, and on bigger roads, it may mean multiple lanes of cars running idle behind one another at least for a kilometre, if not more. Needless to say, this contributes heavily to the air pollution. Here, the fact that electric vehicles are deemed to be ‘zero emission vehicles’ becomes significant. When using an EV, whether you are in traffic or driving long distances, you do not contribute to emissions.

·         Lesser contribution to noise pollution

As compared to ICE vehicles, EVs tend to be quieter. This is primarily due to the fact that these are not powered by internal combustion engines. This leads to your vehicle contributing lesser to noise pollution.

·         Lesser fuel consumption

When stuck in traffic, a vehicle with an ICE will consume fuel, which may add to your costs. On the other hand, EVs do not consume fuel. Also, the cost of charging them may be lesser, thus helping you save on car or bike expenses. While these benefits may seem lucrative, you should also consider that there may be some factors that may seem to hamper your smooth ride. For example, the range of distance covered by your EV may depend on its battery and how you have charged it. Being in traffic jams may not suit the vehicle’s battery and overall performance. Also, charging them may take longer than refuelling the ICE vehicles.

EVs and Insurance

Electric vehicles are relatively new technology. As lucrative as the benefits they offered are, you may face issues with them in the future. One of the probabilities for any vehicle, including EVs, is that they get into an accident. To deal with the financial repercussions of these, it may help to get electric vehicle insurance. Hence, if you have an electric car, consider getting electric car insurance, as having to bear any repair costs for your car may bear heavily on your pockets. Similarly, get electric bike insurance for your two-wheeler after carefully considering the policy options available to you. It is ideal to consider the overall costs associated with owning an EV before you decide to buy one.*   *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.